Over a year ago, my dog Zoey became deathly ill just two days after I purchased her from a pet store. Thankfully, and only after some very scary moments, she was able to pull through. Since the day I brought her home from the veterinary hospital, I have aspired to help others learn from and not repeat my mistakes by educating the public on multiple aspects of the dog breeding and retail industry and advocating for the rights of the dogs innocently involved in this system.
Throughout this process, I did an ever-increasing amount of due diligence about puppy mills and was moved to greater action as I learned more about the conditions dogs who live in these facilities are forced to endure. Consequently, I became ever more determined to get Zoey’s Story out to others who, like me, may have unintentionally supported this industry by purchasing their dogs from a pet store.
Due to an overwhelming response and support on the website, I decided to form a non-profit, which I called Protected Paws, Inc. We are a neutral organization that provides support and advocacy for all individuals involved in the dog breeding industry whether consumer, retailer, or breeder. Protected Paws also assists in helping connect potential dog owners to adoptable puppies.
Mission Statement:
It is the mission and goal of Protected Paws to educate the public on multiple aspects of the dog breeding and retail industry, and to provide support and advocacy for individuals involved in the dog breeding industry whether consumer, retailer, or breeder, and assist as a liaison between potential dog-owners and adoptable puppies.
Leslie Roberts – Founder and Director, Protected Paws & Zoey’s Story
email: leslie (at) zoeystory.com
