The older white associate was very rude when my boyfriend & I went to look at the puppies/asked to see one of them. She refused to allow us to see a puppy (while allowing other customers to play with them freely). Would go again for the puppies for adoption, but would steer clear from this associate. read more

Extremely sad to see this puppy mill resell operation. I really wanted to adopt the shetland sheepdog but 95% of the puppies from this place is from a puppy mill. The whole store is misleading and has "Adoption" and "Rescue" out front which is a total lie. They're all extremely expensive at $3k+ which is highway robbery for all the vet bills you will have to foot right after when you find out the puppy is sick. There will be "breeders" listed for each puppy there but the "breeders" are just fronts for puppy mills. I attached a label for example. Just look up BLUE RIBBON PUPPIES online and you'll very easily see that theyre a very well known puppy mill/puppy distributor from Indiana. Google "Lester and Bonita Kemp" as the so/called "breeder" and you will see they do not exist. You can't escape this hard evidence by just responding to all these negative reviews with lies that you care about these dogs when you are literally promoting unethical overbreeding, death, and disease. Just look at how many of these reviews are from serious health issues. STAY AWAY FROM THIS PLACE. THESE PUPPIES DESERVE BETTER. My heart breaks for the sweet puppy I met. Shake a Paw literally profits off these mills that treat puppies as lifeless items to sell and fill their own pockets. Just look up an article about a lawsuit from this year titled, "Attorney General James Wins $300,000 for Customers of Long Island Pet Store That Illegally Sold Sick Puppies" about another Shake a Paw which also lied about the sources of their puppies. Disgusting. Owners of all the sick puppies previously sold here should come together for a lawsuit. Claim whatever you want, that you treat these puppies with care etc but the proof is in the pudding. You cannot claim you care for these dogs when you overcharge and resell them from unethical puppy factories, Jeffrey. read more

Shake A Paw - Union - "Lester and Bonita Kemp" are not legitimate breeders. Blue Ribbon Puppies is an infamous mill distributor from Indiana. - Pet Adoption Near Me - Union, New Jersey

This is the second puppy I have purchased from this place. The first puppy was unfit for sale. They did the right thing and reimbursed at me I kept Maui even with his disabilities after losing my Akita on March 18, 2025. I woke up sad and destroyed. I got in my car and drove ended up at shake a paw when I seen West he reminded me so much of a mini version of my Akita, we noticed problems from the beginning, but as having a toy breed previously hypoglycemia is always a problem with these dogs we miss took a lot of his signs as hypoglycemia. I took out two insurances and monitored his food. His first visit he had worms I paid for all his medication's once he was dewormed and vaccinated is when we started seeing more and more problems. The worst was June 21 when I found him almost dead under my bed. I rushed him to the emergency room after giving him fluids and electrolytes in a bottle by the time I got him to the emergency room he was stable with elevated liver enzymes. I am very transparent and honest they asked me could he have gotten into anything I told them the house is gated he's kept in a certain area. I did let them know. I am a cannabis user for over 20 years so automatically the dog is now high and getting into cannabis. Nothing else was addressed so everybody is running with The Version of this dog is high. I am a very responsible person. I use cannabis for chronic pain I even started using oil as they were saying he was getting secondhand smoke. I still am seeing the same effects. It is happening after he exercises if he gets over excited if he eats the wrong thing because he is a dog, I have him on a strict diet, but how do I know what is the correct diet if he doesn't have the correct work up done They don't care because I ask them to even take this dog and have their vet work it up since they are appealing the unfit for purchase why should I be responsible for almost $6000 of medical bills on top of the 5000? I paid for Him they're saying because it has no definitive diagnosis, but the neurosurgeon is literally saying it's going to be $6000 to run a full metabolic panel. They are a pet store. I can guarantee they can do all this for almost free. It's the point that this dog could die I can't even leave him alone because when he goes down , it's like seizure activity he can't move or do anything. I am also a small business a owner. I'm a Reiki practitioner. Imagine my anxiety and the fact that I can't even do any work or leave my house because this dog needs to be looked after almost 24 hours on top of the fact that I have disabilities so I can't even leave the house to do physical therapy this is taking such a mental and financial toll, but what's really pissing me off is the fact that this puppy is sick and they should be a responsible place and get him worked up but you pick the right one Jeffrey read more

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I thought I scored getting these Christmas treats 50% off... nope. My dog eats EVERYTHING and she wouldn't touch these. Sniffed it and walked away. Usually treats last a long time in my house, but these didn't last at all. I'm honestly really disappointed I wasted the money. Save your money. No wonder the lady told me to get extra. read more

This was the best place to adopt a puppy I've ever seen. They have over 50 dogs to choose from ranging from rescues to pure breads. They even offer financing on the puppy. They also have booths for you to play with the dog in and merchandise for your pup. read more

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Workers have negative attitudes, but the overall service is decent. The place is clean, and the puppies are cute. However, it's not the best. read more

We went into the store not fully understanding where the puppies come from. I am glad we only reserved the puppy for a day and then went on to do some research and read other Yelp reviews. The puppies are all kept in cages here and while we were at the store we didn't see any of them being socialized. We Googled a Broker's name from the crate, Blue Ribbon Puppies, and sure enough, they are linked to puppy mills. The store claims that the breeders are USDA licensed, but, as the Human Society's suggested website, "Pupquest", a website run by veterinarians states: "USDA licensed "breeders" means the puppy was born on a puppy farm.The careless way puppy farms breed dogs increases the chances of your puppy having an inherited/genetic disorder." https://pupquest.org/pet-shops/ Please do your research before purchasing here. I don't usually leave reviews but wanted to pass on what I experienced and researched about the broker used at this store, and hope this review helps another family avoid purchasing at this store. read more

I wanted to take this opportunity to say that the staff, especially, Brian, have been very welcoming and compassionate to me and my son.

I purchased my first puppy from the Union store and the dog had kennel cough and they sent me to the vet to get the puppy pills and the puppy was 100% afterwards. I am looking forward to purchasing a Chihuahua FM but I'm not trying to spend 4000. I am looking around, checking out pricing now. read more

I bought my puppy from here 2 weeks ago. At first, I was a little skeptical because all of the negative things I heard about this place BUT I am so glad I went with my gut and purchased my dog. He is as healthy as can be! Upon entering the store, I was greeted by Charlie. He allowed us to walk around and look at the dogs that were on display. When we spotted the one we wanted, we instantly fell in love. We asked to play with him and that was it! We knew we were going to bring him home. Charlie walked us through EVERYTHING! I mean everything! He was so patient. He answered all of our questions and even repeated something if I didn't understand. I definitely recommend asking for Charlie if you need any assistance in the store! read more

Shake A Paw - Union - Max - Pet Adoption Near Me - Union, New Jersey

17.5 years ago we purchased a Bichon Frise from Shake A Paw. It was a great experience and Angelica was a terrific companion pet. After a full and healthy life she passed last Friday. We certainly wanted a new puppy right away. We checked and Shake A Paw had 2 females immediately available in Union. We are happy to report that Shake A Paw is still the best. As all in state residents know, NJ is a highly regulated state for pet sales and most stores have moved away from this business as it is too time consuming to keep up with the inspections and paperwork. We traveled over 90 minutes to get there but it was certainly worth the drive. The facility is immaculate and the staff is very courteous and helpful. Bianca is an owner and she is very knowledgeable and supportive. Our new Bichon is lovely and came with up to date shots and a microchip already in place. Most impressive is the medical paperwork we received that detailed her weekly visits by the vet, AKC registration paperwork for us to easily submit and detailed information on the breeder. This certainly confirmed our decision to return to this outstanding establishment. read more

Shake A Paw - Union - Lovey Lou and Mom Mom (1/14/22) - Pet Adoption Near Me - Union, New Jersey

I had a very unfortunate experience at this place. After months of promising my daughter I would get her a dog we finally went to this location to purchase a puppy. We got to the store around 4:45pm. We looked around for about 15 min and none of the associates came over to ask if needed help or wanted to see a puppy. I figured once we decided on one we would go to the front and ask. While looking around another family came into the store, a husband, wife and 3 children. After a few minutes, the associate with long blonde hair came over and asked if they needed help or any questions. They said no and she walked away. She did not acknowledge or ask us the same though we were standing next to the family. A few moments later she came back to that family and asked if they wanted to see a dog and that she would allow them to go into a room and play with the puppy, which the family agreed to. Again, she didn't acknowledge my daughter and I and didn't ask if we needed help. Though she was rude we still narrowed down our search but then we couldn't find her. When we finally saw her bringing the dog back she had given to the family to swap out for another one, my daughter asked once she was done if we could see a puppy. The long blonde head lady, said the store was about to close (it was 5:40pm) and that the family had been there since 5 so no. I interrupted and said we had also been there before 5. She responded well the cages are locked and you can ask someone at the front desk?!?! Why would we ask another associate if the reason we couldn't see the puppy was the store was closing. The associate was very dismissive and rude. Not sure why she didn't want to help us but the store lost out on a sale and my daughter left very disappointed. We'll look for another local pet store. read more

Shake A Paw - Union - Pet Adoption Near Me - Union, New Jersey

My sister purchased a puppy from this 'puppy mill' and it's been nothing but behavioral issues and trips to the vet for the last 7 months. She's on her 3rd trainer and nothing seems to be working. Stay away from this place!! read more

WORST PLACE TO GET A PET FROM! They get a star only because there is NO other way to write this on here. But unless you love getting schemed, deceived, and over charged for doped/drugged dogs don't come here. There are plenty better local places with far better rating than this crappy business. All they want is your money. If they cared for the well being of the pets and fair placement of these animals then they would have a guarantee or take back the dog if a client is not happy type of deal. They want to force a dog with an owner regardless of the match or not. And they're all doped in store, you will be in for a sour surprise after the drugs wear off because the animal won't stop barking and being loud. I got stuck with the worlds worst most annoying Pomeranian based on deceit and was placed on a payment plan unnecessarily by misinformation. Plus, when I didn't get the person who originally sold the dog to us either on phone and or in person, the attitude would be rude and not helpful at all. They even rolled their eyes at us. Then, when I actually got the original sales rep, ANTONIO, he would give much run around BS. I'll let Karma return the favor to these jokers. It will come around. It has to. I mean, all these bad reviews on Yelp is for a reason. Only people who lie on here are giving them more than one star. Dare if you're brave to try your luck! The place should be shut down. The Better Business Bureau should investigate and close them! read more

I have adopted 3 puppies here over the last 15 years and I would never go anywhere else! This week I adopted my newest addition to my family - a toy poodle. He is a healthy and very happy puppy! I highly recommend using Charlie to help you find your next puppy or even if you need assistance for supplies. He REALLY went above and beyond for me - making the experience that much more special :) !! Once I met the baby toy poodle- I knew he would be coming home with me. Charlie walked around the store, even holding my basket, while helping me get all the supplies my new baby would need. Charlie Truly cares about the animals and it shows. This is a great store to find your new puppy!!! read more

Shake A Paw - Union - Pet Adoption Near Me - Union, New Jersey

We bought our Bichon, Ghost at this Shake a Paw. When we arrived to the store we were greeted and helped right away. The staff was friendly and knowledgeable. We got to play with Ghost before we brought him home, we fell in love with him. There are many different breeds to choose from and you can also buy all your pets supplies here. read more

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I love this place. The staff is friendly and very informative. I ended up purchasing my pup who was very healthy as were all the other dogs there. read more

Shake A Paw - Union - Pet Adoption Near Me - Union, New Jersey

I thought I would be able to give a good review considering I got my baby girl Bella on 1/1/2024 . But on 1/6/24 I took her for her first wellness check at the Pet clinic they suggest and offer first visit free of charge . but my baby had an infection along with kennel cough and sneezing . they gave their antibiotics and ear drops . It seems the ear infection got better but her cough still lingers and I'm spending money on Vet Fees and medicines to get my baby better and comfortable . I ran into a handful of other shake a paw customers with the same issue . do your research before purchase from this place . I have a lawyer at hand because I'm not satisfied read more

Do not adopt a dog from this shelter. Adopt Rocky 10/24/25 was told he was a healthy senior. Got him home he could not climb steps and was not house broken. First vet visit we found failing eye sight , hearing and teeth had to be extracted they were rotted, 5 visits to the vet and $2000.00 later we find there are now more issues. When you are retired and on a budget this is a hardship. We know there would be some health issues for a senior dog but not all of what we are finding out. My rating is zero. They did not tell us the truth. read more

This is my second time at this location. I was here last year in August 2016 when I was contemplating to get a pup and was deciding what breed was best for me. I saw a couple of beautiful pups but they were really expensive. $2100 - 3500 for the large (and pure? ) breeds. I ended up adopting a puppy, that's a story for another day though. They have a great collection of toys, harnesses, collars, and foods. You may not find the usual brands, such as Purina or Blue Buffalo. They have adoptions too and their vet check-ups. The store assistants aren't the friendliest. You may have to chase them down for any questions or more details. The puppies in their crates are adorable and "vet certified". I am really not sure how that works. I was there for about 20-25 mins the other day looking for some Christmas toys for my pup and I noticed a couple of really sick puppies. One of the Golden Retriever pups was pooping blood and mucus. The other pup wad frantically throwing up. I did alert the assistant, who very lightly said "thanks" and continued doing what she was doing. I would visit this store for supplies or some gifts but never to buy a puppy. read more

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After reading some of the reviews, I was a little hesitant to come into this shop, especially since it was going to be my first time buying a dog. But I like to see things for myself rather than just believe what everyone says. To be honest, if I wouldn't have went, I wouldn't have found my Teddy(Morkie) He is literally perfect. He loves to play, eat, sleep, friendly with literally anybody(kids, babies, etc). And I'm so happy!!!!! I want to thank Antonio from Shake-A-Paw for being so helpful and informative. He literally answered all the questions my husband & I had about Teddy. He even called us a couple days after to see how we were doing with him. This place is amazing! If I get another dog, I would definitely come back here in a heart beat!! read more

Shake A Paw - Union - Living the good life - Pet Adoption Near Me - Union, New Jersey

We recently put our dog down that we had for 15 years. If any of you have lost a pet in the past you know how heartbreaking and emotional this is. We decided to look at Shake a Paw for a puppy (not a pure bred) and were astounded by the prices. Almost every puppy being about $5,000. We told the owner our situation, and how we actually have gotten a puppy at shake a paw in the past about 8 years ago. The puppy we liked was a Morkie. She was $4,725. The owner said he could take $800 off of the window price, and would not even budge afterwards, which was a bit shocking, especially since we were a RETURNING CUSTOMER. Mind you, she was a mixed breed. You can find the same type of breed ONLINE with all of their shots for $1,000 or less, and the breeders will even ship the pup to you. So that's exactly what we did. Then the owner had the nerve to ask us for a nice prime rib steak, since my family owns a butcher business. The owner will try to convince you that breeders are a scam when the business he is running is the only "scam." My other pup we just put down was from a breeder and she was the sweetest little baby, and clearly not a scam. It seems to me his only goal is to make money, more than actually caring about the puppies finding a loving home. I will never support a business that cares more about money than the well being of animals. Such a shame because the puppy we played with was absolutely adorable and we would have purchased her if we didn't find the same one online for $4,000 less. Advice to management: Stop only caring about putting money in your pocket, and start giving a damn about these animals finding loving homes. You shouldn't be working with animals if you're so money hungry and money driven. Advice to customers: Don't even bother walking through the door. Take your business elsewhere. Rescue instead, or look at a breeder online. Don't support this man who is clearly only in this business for the money, and not the well being of animals! read more

I guess I got lucky with my pup from the Union location. No problems over here. I actually haggled and they lowered the price. Why not 5 stars? You gotta go way out of your way now-a-days to get 5 stars read more

Shake A Paw - Union - Pet Adoption Near Me - Union, New Jersey

My husband and I have been coming here for years just to look at puppies but with never any plans to get a dog. But this week we happen to come across Mr. Biggs and fell in love. He's a 4 yr old chihuahua, house broken and a lap dog. Our daughter loved him and we were fortunate enough to get him. The process was quick and easy and not as expensive as the puppies. So far we've only had him 1 day but we couldn't be happier with our newest family member. read more

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I definitely wouldn't buy a designer pup from a place like this, but I adopted a 3yo terrier mix from here and she is the best!!! (Apparently deathly afraid of bubble wrap). She is the perfect snuggle bug and the perfect lap dog. Plus she is ADORABLE! ADOPT ADOPT ADOPT DON'T SHOP!!!! The puppies are over priced and usually end up being sick anyway. read more

Shake A Paw - Union - Snuggle bug - Pet Adoption Near Me - Union, New Jersey

I bought my Italian Greyhound from this spot in Septermber 2022 after losing of my 7 year old dog. I was upset and did not know what kind of dog ai would even want. The staff was super sweet and helped me with every step. Now my puppy Kwest is 9 months old, healthy and happy! Now I am looking to get a second one for company! read more

Shake A Paw - Union - My puppy Kwest - Pet Adoption Near Me - Union, New Jersey

Got my puppy from here. He had a respiratory infection and i brought him back 2 days after my purchase. I was too attached to my puppy to give it up so i had them take care of it for 2 weeks. My puppy did get a little better and he gained some weight. Still after having my puppy for over a month he still has an awful cough and all the vets reccomened by shake a paw either says nothing is wrong or use antibiotics that clearly arent doing anything. Im wondering if i should use an outside vet. Anyway i love my puppy to much to let it go, even though his coughs, wheezing, and sneezing keeps me up. I wish i did more research on this place before shelling out 3100$. The one bright side is that the employees are super nice and knowledgable. I love the black girl, the white vet tech man, and the short girl with braces. They all were truly concerned about my puppy. read more

If you're looking for a huge selection of puppies, this is the place to go. But I don't suggest buying one from here. Of course, you don't buy puppies from puppy stores, but they have the largest selection of dogs I've ever seen! They aren't kept in the best conditions, most of them were living with their own feces, to a point where some have rolled into it and it was all over their fur. If you are looking for pet supplies though, this is the place to go. You'll find anything and everything you need. 1 Star for Puppies, but 4 Stars for the supplies. Don't expect anyone to help or greet you, so just make sure you know what you want. read more

I purchased my Shiba Inu from here almost 2 weeks ago. Staff was great and VERY patient. Nicole is the best. I would definitely go back. read more

Shake A Paw - Union - Pet Adoption Near Me - Union, New Jersey

This is a puppymill reseller plain and simple. I dont own a mill puppy but I can tell you from first hand experience (since I live both in NJ and the mid west) that these same exact puppies can be had for $300 - $2,000 with all the same lies, illnesses, and future psychological issues. The $2k-$5k premium you pay for is a health vetting process that looks like its nothing more than culling out the physically disformed. From all the health complaints it's clear that the health screening isn't that extensive (e.g multiple veterinarian visits). I can however applaud them for their "honesty" in putting the "breeders" information, but pretty much all "breeders" in the midwest are puppy mill operations ran by the amish or unregulated in-house mills. Stay away from puppies unless you have an absolute need for them such that the need is better than the ethical costs. If you have no ethics you can fly to the midwest, get a motel, see the mill puppies for yourself, health screen, and get one for less than $5,000 2 stars as I've never had a rude experience here when adopting but the dogs both puppies and adoption regularly have feces and urine in their cages. Sometimes multiple dogs cramped in one feces filled cage. Great way to share infections. Based on the comments here including those directly from the owner, he's no more intelligent than myself. read more

We got our Cockapoo puppy at Shake A Paw in April. The staff at Shake A Paw were very helpful. We looked at a couple of pups and they were able to answer all our questions. A couple of days after taking her home, they called us to make sure she was doing well. When purchasing a puppy here, you get the first vet appointment free and they allow you to choose from multiple locations. She was very healthy, her shots were up to date for her age. She's been such a joy in our life and we would definitely go there again. read more

Shake A Paw - Union - Pet Adoption Near Me - Union, New Jersey

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We got our precious pup at Shake A Paw six weeks ago and have nothing but good things to say about them! Honestly, I was a bit skeptical of buying from a pet store, especially with the mixed reviews on Yelp, but we figured there was no harm in going to the store and looking. I'd been looking for puppies at local shelters and rescues, but we had specific wants and needs-- a small breed because of our apartment size, non-shedding, young puppy due to worries about unknown past (have had some rough experiences with older adopted dogs)-- and couldn't find what we were looking for, but some of the puppies on the Shake A Paw website seemed to match what we had in mind. I'm SO glad we gave Shake A Paw a chance. For starters, the store was meticulously clean, and the employees were all very friendly. We met with two puppies we were interested in, and they gave us time to really get to know the dogs and play with them. The second dog, a Shih-Tzu/Bichon mix, was our sweet girl we ended up bringing home. We put down a deposit (had to wait three days until she was cleared by the vet), and Christie helped us find everything we needed in the store in order to prepare for our new puppy. Six weeks later, our girl is thriving! She's everything we dreamed of and more, and I'm so glad we took a chance on Shake A Paw! read more

Charles at Shake A Paw was awesome! We got an amazing Australian Sheperd at a really great price and couldn't be more happier! read more

Shake A Paw - Union - Pet Adoption Near Me - Union, New Jersey

My experience with this company has not been great it's been less than stellar. I got my dog a year ago the 2 1/2 month old puppy. She is now a little over a year old and I have since found out that she has neurological issues they will not pick up the phone, and when they do they avoid the questions at all cost. I cannot get the owner on the phone because I would like them to be responsible for the medical care that my dog is receiving right now which is going to cost me thousands of dollars once she reached about six months, the behaviors started with incessant barking, which is normal of the breed, but not like this. She is afraid of everything and I am now seeing a behavior specialist and my dog is now a medication. What I would like to know is the name of the breeder there phone number and I want compensation for every bill that I have from now until, and if this dog can be retrained to the point where I don't have to put her down. I will never ever buy another dog. I paid way too much money to have all these issues even though I have health insurance for her these things are not covered. I am so upset and angry beyond belief. Apparently these people have no heart. Let me add that if I do not hear from the owner by tomorrow which will be June 2. I will be forced to contact my attorney to get reimbursement from the owner. read more

I reached out to this business to explain that my dog is ill and I am unable to afford his diagnostic tests to determine treatment. I asked what folks tend to do in situations like this, if they could give me some information I'd be grateful. It took them 4 days to say "we can offer you anything, work it out with your vet, good luck." What a waste of effort. I wouldn't recommend to anyone for anything. ZERO stars. read more

POOR puppies! I walked in this place to look for a puppy. The staff was rude and inattentive. They told me I had to fill out paper work before I looked at a puppy in a little cubby and that I was not allowed to hold them. Also, the puppies were sitting and laying in pure filth. read more

I walked In there today for the first time with 5 thousand dollars cash in my pocket. I went with my 6 year old because she really wants a puppy so bad however I never had a dog growing up so I wanted to take our time and figure out how she would react. I walk in and there is a blonde lady at the register I asked her if we really liked a puppy can we hang out with it first to see how my daughter react her answer was short and a rude no!!! We kept walking around and another couple came and said oh we want to buy this dog but we want to play with it first and she got the dog out for them and brought it in a room to interact with them. Now my question to this company is what if the couple didn't want the dog at the end???? Sooo now my daughter is upset because how come they could and we couldn't. I was sooo pissed. I asked her how come you let them and not us she said oh cause they are buying it. Wait but how are you for sure that they are? What made her think that I wasn't going to buy one if my daughter truly connected to the puppy? You lost my business. I walked out and I will bring my cash somewhere else where they are friendlier and more welcoming, where they treat us as a buying customer because why else would I walk inside a business if I'm not buying nothing. I have no time for games!!! read more

Horrible staff. The older blonde woman has an attitude that continues to drive away customers. My family and I we're looking to make a new addition to our family but the staff... inattentive and disrespectful. I understand there's rules BUT it's all about the delivery. There's ways to talk to customers. Because of this horrible experience we will be sure to make sure our friends and family don't waste their time at this location. Very disappointing. If they treat customers like this, it breaks my heart to imagine how they treat the puppies. read more

I have been looking for a dog for about 4 years (since my yorkie passed away). I came into Shake a paw a few times and there was never any pressure to buy or being forced to make a quick decision. Brittany was very helpful and let me play with the puppy as long as I wanted. Now I have my little guy home and we couldn't be happier. Thanks Shake a Paw for helping me find my new best friend. read more

Shake A Paw - Union - Pet Adoption Near Me - Union, New Jersey

Pure puppy mill dogs! Purchased a dog from here about a year ago to save the poor thing and was still sick for months. This place is careless and look at animals as price tags read more