Here are 45 reasons why you should never buy a puppy from a pet shop or backyard breeder: Alabama puppy miller Nannie Johnson was charged with 43 counts of cruelty to animals after police discovered 43 dead dogs on her property, 42 of whom were in her freezer [3]. That's right, in her freezer. Authorities confiscated 28 emaciated dogs, but sadly, two dogs died after being rescued.

That makes for a total of 45 dead dogs [4]. Think about that for a minute. This is just one woman running a puppy mill. How many more backyard breeders are out there abusing and using dogs just to make a quick buck? And clearly, Johnson needs counseling and/or psychiatric care. More than one person knew about her operation. Why didn't they come forward sooner, or try to get her some help?

There are responsible breeders out there, but it requires research and patience on the part of the potential puppy buyer. Too many people just impulsively fall for that cute puppy in the window without taking the time to think about where he came from. We live in a world of instant gratification; at what cost?