Hi, my new name is Gracie. I am about 7 years old and I weigh 8 pounds and I am a purebred Affenpinscher. I was recently rescued from a Puppy Mill in Minnesota where I spent most of my life having puppies for the pure profit of my unkind owners. I was never given a name, a toy or a soft blanket to sleep on. I was never bathed, never felt grass beneath my feet and was never shown any kind of affection. I lived my life in a small cage on top of other small cages, all filled with dogs. I was even de-barked so I would not make much noise. My small body finally wore out and I could no longer have puppies. I was brought to a back room and left alone. I was so sad. A human angel found me in this awful place and managed to save me from my uncertain fate. Once brought to Florida it was discovered that I would need extensive surgery.

I was placed with a wonderful organization called the Yorkie Friends Rescue, ( www.yorkiefriendsrescue.com) where I received my care. I spent weeks recuperating with another human angel name Margie before she found me a good home.

Now I live with the DeRoche family. They have other dogs... all rescue dogs like me so we have plenty of stories to share. I have my own bed, my own toys... and my new Mom even bought me a hat! She lets me sleep with her and sometimes when I wake up in the middle of the night I get scared because I think I am back in that bad place... but then I see my Mom's face and I go right back to sleep. The best thing of all, I feel loved and protected. I know I will have a happy life here. How lucky I am to have been rescued from that awful place. I feel so sad for all the other dogs I left behind.

Gracie

*Additional note - For more information about Puppy Mills... log onto Oprah.com to see the show devoted to Puppy Mill dogs. Show aired on April 4, 2008. Please do not buy a puppy from a Pet Shop... 99% of the puppies in Pet Shops come from Puppy Mills. If you have your heart set on a specific breed, you can find these dogs from Humane Shelters and Dog Rescue Organizations. If you open your heart and home to rescue a dog, it will be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life!

Kit & Jerry DeRoche