New Sylvania Pet Store :(

If they're selling live canines this is a horrible time to start that kind of business. A lot of the unemployed have had to give up their pet because they could no longer afford to pay for their care.

I sure hope this isn't a live canine pet store.

Sure is- of course their window says "no puppy mills" If that isn't good marketing, I don't know what is. Sheesh.

There's a Facebook page up here: http://www.facebook.com/stoppuppyworld

I really hate people sometimes.

What a horrible idea. I get dozens of emails a week from a rescue group I volunteer with regarding dogs/puppies that people are desperately trying to help with foster or adoptive homes.

Not everyone wants a used dog, but everyone loves a brand new puppy!! They're so cute and smell good. What's the problem?

What's the problem?

Well, let's start here:
http://www.prisonersofgreed.org/Commercial-kennel-facts.html

Hickory was just joking, I think (hope).

That is a great website though- thanks!

So everyone is assuming that the puppies being sold in this store are from a puppy mill?

I guess I was wrong.

Hickory- where do you think these dogs come from?

I don't know. So I'm right, you are assuming?

It is either from puppy mills or really shady breeders in it for just the money- take your pick. They are certainly not rescue dogs- and reputable breeders are NOT going to sell their dogs to pet stores. Reputable breeders are breeding because they love the breed and they will allow you to meet parents and make sure that you are a good home for that animal. This is not the case at pet stores.

Hopefully, nobody will patronize this place. The shelters are brimming with wonderful dogs and cats needing a home. It is interesting that this place is in upscale Sylvania. If they are expensive designer dog breeds, like teacup maltese puppies, ethics and morals go right out the door and people will buy them. Sad, but true. I'll just stick to my shelter mutts. Best dogs ever!

Hickory - I'll give you a serious answer even though I find your comments here to be repugnant.

There are hundreds of puppies that are either placed with rescue groups or euthanized EVERY DAY. Its not just adult dogs who end up in rescue or shelters.

Only an uneducated fool would purchase a puppy from a pet store. (As Courtney pointed out, no reputable breeder would ever sell to a pet store.)

Planned Pethood is speaking out against Puppy World, too:

http://www.facebook.com/plannedpethood

Ugh...I just realized the store is in Mayberry Square, right around the corner from my house.

(Seems like an odd location for a pet store anyhow - ice cream & coffee shop, a few restaurants, a bakery, and...a puppy store?)

SERIOUSLY? I love Mayberry! Woah - toatlly going to try and make the picket on Friday.

I know a few of the businesses at mayberry are really worried that the protests will hurt business, and they have no control over the situation.

Maybe I'll have breakfast at the Mayberry Diner that morning to watch the silliness. Should be fun to see how the police in that stripmall react to picketers. Just don't take up all the good parking. Thanks.

What are you trying to say? Doesn't matter. The sooner that shithole is closed down the better business for all.

FYI Hickory, rescues get loads of "new" puppies too, when they end up dumped in pounds or unwanted by the owners who allowed their dogs to breed to begin with. They also get rejected puppy mill breeding dogs and puppies that don't sell, which are also dumped in pounds where they would die without rescue stepping in to save them. They will also get some of these adorable over-priced puppies a few months from now when the thrill wears off and people discover all puppies require a lot of time and training.
The owners will of course claim these puppies don't come from puppy mills. NO one ever admits to being a puppy miller. In fact the people in MO who auctioned off breeding stock that totaled 1000 dogs a few weeks ago were crying in the media about how they loved all their dogs! All 1000 of them....Puppy mills aren't just Amish with wire cages. By definition they have too many dogs, too many breeds, and substandard care to maximize profits. These puppies are coming from another pet store in MI, and before that who knows, but you can bet this is all about making a buck off of some dogs' misery. Go on in and ask questions. responsible breeders want you to do your homework. They also want to know you're a good fit for their dogs. They can show you the parents of the puppies they have. You can bet all you're going to get with these puppies is some dubious piece of paper, and all they're going to ask about you is for the ID to go with your credit card.
And yeah after all the work and all the progress that's been made towards helping Lucas Co dogs get another chance, now this comes along. Let's hope they figure out pretty fast this was a bad idea.

What time does the picket start on Friday?

The Ohio Coalition of Dog Advocates will sponsor a demonstration this Friday from 4 to 8. OCDA will bring signs and literature to distribute. OCDA has secured media coverage for the event. Please plan on attending and show your support!

facebook.com/stoppuppyworld

I got my dog my dog from the Humane Society about 3 months ago and she is the best (sorry other dog owners, but she is great, lol) She came spayed, with all of her shots, dog license, trained, bag of food, and micro-chipped all for $150. You just have to be patient and make frequent visits to find the perfect dog. Also, if your're not set on getting a puppy, you can find a younger dog that is already showing its characteristics and determine if it matches your lifestyle or not.

I have no use for people that picket. Good luck to the pet store.

All the more reason to be there!

Good luck to the pet store.

Just for that, deere1, I'll show up with my walking shoes on.

LOL well Deere1, unless you plan on going over and buying a bunch of puppies, your disliking protests and wishing them luck isn't going to help their business any.

Typical Liberal Assholes. You have no idea where the puppys come from or anything about this new business, but you've already jumped to the conclusion it's got to be bad and want to picket the place. why not find out a little more about it first. I can see it now, another ribbon to wear or stick on your car. The new color will be spotted dalmation.

Unless the owners are finding these stray puppies and selling them there is no reason for this “business” to exist.

And I like that in your small minded world one would have to be a “liberal” to disagree with puppy mills and the poor treatment of animals.

AP, don't bring politics into this, people of every persuasion believe that companion animals should be raised and treated ethically. Puppy mills are a known problem and as stated, NO self respecting breeder who actually cares about animals would sell dogs to a pet store.

I'm not a liberal by any stretch of the imagination.

However, its a well known fact that NO reputable, responsible breeder would sell to a pet store.

If one must buy a purebred dog, the best way to do it is by purchasing from a reputable breeder. One who has the puppy's mom (if not both parents) available for you to see. One who stands by the health of the puppy you are about to purchase. One who is just as concerned about making sure you are a good fit as well.

(Full disclosure - I have one purebred who came from a breeder in addition to my dog adopted from rescue.)

I loath these kinds of businesses. It is disturbing the sheer amount of animals who die daily because their lives are treated as commercial goods. Unwanted pets die because of locations such as this.

I wont support this store, and will do my best to influence my friends and family away from it.

American Pie- your dream world sounds nice. Where do I sign up?

Unless the owners are finding these stray puppies and selling them...

I wonder if some kind of business could be set up where the dogs on death row at the pound could be moved to a store and sold? Especially if they were given some training first by a good dog trainer. Imagine being able to buy a genuine full blooded curbstone setter that was already housebroken and would sit, stay, lie down and come when called.

There used to be a puppy store near my apartment in Chicago called "Let's Pet Puppies"

When you went inside, all the signs said "Don't Touch The Puppies!" It was a super creepy place.

There was a good sized group of protesters out there around 5:15 pm-ish. (I pass by Mayberry on my way home from work.)

If there were that many people gathered today, it will be interesting to see how many show up for the official protest tomorrow.

I won't be there - work until 5, then we have an event for my kids at 6. Hope they get a decent turn out though.

P.S. Buy ice cream or coffee - the owner of the shop there is a super nice guy, and he certainly has no control over whether or not that puppy shop opens.

Please don't buy from breeders, either. There's a bunch of phony bullshit about people who buy from these people, then defend it because "the mother was on the premises." Breeders also are in the business of selling dogs for profit. I know of people who buy from them, then the dog ends up with some disease, despite the fact they got to see the "mother" on the premises before they bought the dog. One person I know ended up with a very cute golden retriever from a "reputable" breeder, only to see it develop a very serious, rare disorder just five months later. They asked the breeder for their money back, which was denied. But the breeder offered to take the dog back so they could pick another one. You know what that means: the dog they had already picked would be euthanized. They already bonded with the ill dog, and to their credit, spent a fortune in Michigan getting treatments for the dog. Thankfully, the disease went into remission. Puppy mills and breeders should be banned from selling dogs when shelters are full of dogs. People who buy breeds because they're "fashionable" or because they fit their socio-economic status, aren't any better than people buying a dog from a puppy mill. Just my two cents.

We got our Weimaraner from a local rescue group. We had been going to see the rescue groups at Pet Smart and also making trips to the Humane Society on Saturdays for a couple months, just looking, not for anything specific.

She was born last year in July and we got her on Halloween day of last year. The rescue group had for about 2 weeks before we got her. She weighed only 12 pounds. No type-o. Only 12 pounds.

Her rib cage was ridiculous and she had some major eating issues. But we are past that now and she is healthy but her growth was stunted and the vet said she wouldn't get much bigger than the last time she was in there... this Spring. She is about 40 pounds now which is about half what she would have weighed normally.

Her little paws were all swollen when we got her because she lived her life in a little wire kennel with no plastic, let alone something soft lining on the metal wires for her to lay down on.

These "breeders" are a horrible sort of human being, granting them rights to a special place in hell for them when they die.

So what kind of meat did everyone have for dinner?

I'm not anti-breeder. Responsible breeders breed one or two breeds. They show their dogs and only breed those that exhibit the very best traits of the breed. Their dogs have all the recommended health clearances. They screen the homes and odds are you'll have to wait for a puppy. If you won't be showing that dog, it will be spayed or neutered. If the home doesn't work out, they take the dog back. Responsible breeders generally do not add to the problem. And as a general rule they do not make any money. People have specific preferences for the breeds of dogs they want and not all of those breeds are readily available in rescue. BUT just saying "I'm responsible" doesn't make it so and people tossing a couple of dogs together doesn't equal responsible, whether they come along with AKC papers or not.

As for where these puppies come from, responsible breeders do not pass their puppies from pet store to pet store, with no idea where they will end up. Even if we allow for arguments' sake that perhaps they're coming from backyard breeders where the parents aren't horribly neglected, there is nothing in place that will keep these puppies from being bred and adding to the problem, and no way to know if they too will end up in a pound someday. (and i can assure you there isn't a breed out there that doesn't end up there because I've picked them up myself.)

@MadJack, I think we already have something where death row dogs are taken out, trained and then "sold." it's called rescue. ;) A whole lot of these dogs have amazing manners when they end up at the pound and still no one bothers to pick them up. Most rescue dogs go to foster homes too, where their training is continued.

dhr - you look a fool.

And it has begun.

Join the picket until 8pm tonight!

Pick up some awesome chili mac at Chili Jacks while you are there!

What about Petsplus on Alexis, dont they have puppies and kitties in there?

Only when rescues come and hold adoptions.

what about Dave's tropical fish on Lewis? they have been selling puppies for the 20 yrs Ive lived in toledo an have not ever seen any one protesting them? is it because the new store is blemishing the trendy marketplace?

Dave has had its share. Its just such a shithole I think most sane people don't patronize it.

What about? What about? What about?

It's about Puppy World tonight, mmmkay?

Jeez ryan - grow the fuck up

Okay "Billy".

Hysterical.

swear to god, you ask a simple question and the resident troll gets his panties all in a twist. Fucking worthless little twit.

You asked a very leading and obvious question.

You got an answer.

If you think the 50 protesters were there today because that store is in Sylvania you are as ignorant as you seem.

Sleep tight troller.

If being realistic and honest with myself makes me look the fool, what does that make somebody as hypocritical and inconsistent as you, Ryan?

Lemme see - puppy mills vs. eatng meat.

Yea - they are the same.

NOT!

Are you ignorant or stupid?

At least that poor dog is going to a loving home. How'd that chicken fare?

Are you redundant or repetitive?

BTW, chicken went down good. A little Franks hot sauce and butter and you got yourself some wings, sister!

Petsmart sells cats that belong to the Toledo Area Humane Society. I remember seeing some cats in small glass cubicles last year that had signs saying that they were from the Toledo Area Humane Society. I don't have a problem with that because it is helping to promote, probably, cats that are having difficulty getting adopted and it may be their last chance. I am guessing that Petsmart does not make a profit on this and may be doing some community service on this.

Bikerdude - you're right, I'm fairly certain that Petsmart doesn't make any money off hosting the Humane Society (or any of the other stores that host rescue events).

They get some increased foot traffic on adoption days & probably some increased sales/publicity. But the stores donate the space to the rescues.

Holy hell, after reading the news stories this morning, I just realized that I know the people who opened the store. It has been awhile since I talked to them, so I had no idea.

They've always been incredibly nice (in the context I know them in). Can't figure out why they would get involved with such an operation? I have to think it was lack of awareness on their part vs. any malicious intent. Still - yikes! I wish I had known of their business plans, I would have gently tried to explain why it might not be such a good idea. :(

According to the wife its because children come from 2 and 3 hours away to pet the puppies!?!?!?!?!!?

You asked a very leading and obvious question.

How so ryan? a new store is being protested for doing something another store has been doing without protest for decades.

Your viciousness at someone pointing this out and asking about it shows a fear of honest debate.

Your attacks on anyone who ever even dares to ask a question that 'might' be different than your views shows a true deep seeded cowardice. Ryan I have adopted more dogs than you have and I do not support pet stores selling them and my question was appropriate to this post.

The only other times Ive ever seen someone advocating the boycott of one store in this area when other stores were out there doing the same thing had nothing to do with the product offering, and Im wondering if this isnt the same. Is it NIMBY maybe?

billy - I'll give you an honest answer. I had no idea that they sold puppies at Dave's Tropical Fish until I saw you mention it here.

I suspect that others may not be aware of that either. Puppy World is a much more conspicuous name for a puppy-selling store than Dave's Tropical Fish.

It's still not clear if Ryan is ignorant or just stupid. I would guess ignorant, as he's simply unwilling to acknowledge the hypocrisy of his own actions. Why would someone CHOOSE to keep the blinders on, though?

"But...but....puppies are cute!"

You don't have to be a vegan to think that an animal-oriented business should have responsible practices.

Hmmm... I love meat and puppies are cute! Make me a hypocrite? I don't think so. W don't eat dog and cat in this culture. If we did, my "bitchy kitty" coulda been a plate of Kung Pao Kitty many moons ago! LMAO.
Point is, any store that sells dogs and cats for that matter are supporting an inhumane business like puppy mills where dogs are left in wire cages their whole lives. Go to the Best Friends Animal Society website or Facebook Page to read more about these puppy mills. It will make you sick.
ANd yes, Dave's Tropical Fish should also be picketed- totally agree.

"If you think the 50 protesters were there today because that store is in Sylvania ..."

That's what I thought.

Does some group investigate pet stores that sell puppies? I assume this group has a list of all the stores in metro Toledo that sell puppies the right way and the wrong way. List them. Map them. Rate them. Expose them. Use simple Web technologies to create this informational tool. A big green star for one store and a big red flag for another. People can then choose to avoid shopping at those stores for other pet-related items because of the store's bad puppy rating. A change in consumer buying habits may pressure the stores that sell puppies the wrong way. I can't believe that a fish store is the only store in the area that's gone unnoticed for allegedly bad puppy practices. It would be odd if this protest ended with the new Sylvania store.

"Stop Puppy World" Facebook page thread

Nov 13, 2010 - Toledo Blade - Protesters picket Sylvania Township pet store

"Stop Puppy World" Facebook page thread about the West Toledo Animal Hospital:

I've been off Toledo Talk for a few days, and wow did I miss a LOT!

I'd like to let Hickory G know that my current foster dog -- a handsome purebreed -- is only ONE YEAR OLD, barely removed from being a puppy, and he was an owner surrender. Where did the owners get him? A pet store. Then they decided they didn't want him anymore. He is not "used." He is totally ripe for training by someone who wants a young dog they can raise out of puppyhood.

His experience in a pet store, I believe, has left him with several anxieties and affects his behavior even today. We are working on all of that. Being kenneled all day, surrounded by other kennels of barking, crying puppies, people poking in at you or tapping on your cage, being allowed to potty in your kennel ... the whole environment is not good for puppies and, in my opinion, causes behavioral problems which set up the puppies to fail in their homes and thus get turned into shelters and rescues.

Puppies who end up for sale in pet stores come from puppy mills where they are treated as a cash crop. End of story.

Hear, hear jmleong! Don't stay away for so long next time! LOL... We need your wisdom n this board big time- no kidding! (:

_I had no idea that they sold puppies at Dave's Tropical Fish until I saw you mention it here.
_

Mom2, thanks for the honest and civil response. fyi, Daves is right on Lewis Avenue and has been there for a couple decades. They have a sign out front (free standing sign about 10ft high, not just a sign in the window) where they advertize the breeds they are currently stocking.

I live in West toledo, and I'd guess there are many other posters out here who do as well, and have known about it for years. Even by calling it a shit hole, ryan admitted knowing about it. I just question why there was no outrage about that.

I'll post another question bound to ruffle the feathers of some. Are there any reputable places in the country that sell puppies that are on the up and up? Basically an honest brokerage house for legitimate breeders?

OR - are they all just puppy mill outlets?

Mom2: you are correct. Not only does PetSmart offer space to rescue groups, they also donate to these same groups. The profit for a company like PetSmart is in being able to sell food, supplies, and other ancillary items to the new pet owners of recused animals.

More from today's Blade story:

Billy, I've lived not far from Dave's for the past seven years, and I never knew puppies were sold there. Granted, I'm usually driving past and don't have time to look at the sign thoroughly, but I've never even heard it mentioned until today. I wonder how many animal rescue groups are aware of it.

You don't have to be a vegan to think that an animal-oriented business should have responsible practices.

I doubt anyone here is in the .001% of the population to which this would apply. Where does your meat & dairy come from?

I buy organic and free-range, whenever and wherever possible. Yes, those words apply to more than just vegetables and eggs. And yes, there are more than .001% of the meat-lovers around that care about the treatment of animals. It's called having a conscience.

You said it yourself. You have a conscience "whenever and wherever possible". Just not always. Not if it inconveniences you. Otherwise you'd be vegan.

"Bob Esplin, owner of SylvaniaVET, said that Mr. DeSilva approached him seeking veterinary services for his store's puppies, but that he had to turn Mr. DeSilva down because he didn't seem prepared to meet the regulations and responsibilities involved in operating such a business."

The Blade always goes to this moron every time they want him to say what they want a vet to say. For Esplin to say DeSilva doesn't meet the regulations and responsibilities involved in operating such a business is hilarious. What a jackhole! It's time, Blade, to go to another vet. Or can't you find one that has a mind of their own.

I totally am opposed to this pet store, and any store that sells puppies. We need legislation to ban it. Why are these bills getting stalled in the legislature? Who is blocking it. They can't be that powerful.

"I buy organic and free-range, whenever and wherever possible."

Be careful of any "free range" claim.

Wikipedia : free range :

Even for eggs, "free range" may not mean what we think.

For a chicken or turkey that's raised for meat, note the USDA's minimum requirement for that bird to be allowed to be labeled "free range" :

"access to the outside"

What's the definition of "access" and "outside" and how long must the bird be outside? In theory, a caged bird can be let outside on concrete for five minutes a day and still qualify as "free range" and thus command a higher price.

Substitute phrases like "pasture raised" and "free roaming" are also unregulated and can be defined by whatever the farmer wants.

For turkeys, Alton Brown recommends consumers buy a heritage turkey.

Other options are raising your own animals or take up hunting.

I am waiting for the first free range turducken.

I am waiting for the first free range turducken.

It goes down great with an organic cherpumple.

One of the great things about living in Toledo is that it's possible to visit your sources of eggs, meat, and cheese. I've been able to watch the hens and judge their lifestyle for myself. There are small beef and dairy cattle farms nearby in Fulton County. It's a nice drive in the country for those who can spare the time to check out food sources. People who sell at the Farmer's Market are very informative about animal conditions, and they can give you directions to their property and sources if you ever want to see for yourself.

Eggs from Fulton & Lucas country farm stands usually cost about $2 a dozen, available in different colors and assorted sizes. Along the way you can get strawberries, blueberries, sweet corn, tomatoes, cucumbers, peaches, pumpkins, etc. for very low prices. Ridiculously low prices... if you get off the main roads and go exploring.

A trip like that gives me a lot of respect for the people who grow food, and for the animals who provide our sustenance.

Being that rescue groups, etc. are limited with time, money and volunteers I can understand why they would be picketing a bright new shiny store as opposed to old shithole like Daves right now.

Kind of like the cops going after the new drug dealer in town thats trying to unload kilos as opposed to spending time busting the local stoner that maybe sells a bag or two to friends out of his house.

But you would probably have to contact the group themselves if you're that curious. They have a Facebook page. Nobody can do it all, but I certainly give props to those that do something.

Bikerdude, your comments on Dr.Esplin are uninformed and contradictory. Dr. Esplin, a long time vet and vocal advocate of animal wellbeing said, as did you, that he was against the store.

Why is he always in The Blade? Were his comments enlightening? It's free advertising for his facility every time he comments for The Blade. I would like to see The Blade seek comments from other vets, as someone once said on this board, other than this guy. I am sure there are veterinarians in northwest Ohio who also have an "opposing" view of the pet store.

BB with all due respect, I think if you spoke to Dr. Esplin you would change your attitude toward him. My guess is the Blade chooses him because he is respected (even the Blade can get it right sometimes), well liked,and makes his views known. Again, I'll bet you'd find him enlightening.

Bikerdude: I believe I brought this up a few months ago in a thread that The Blahhhh only seems to go to Esplin for comment when there are tons of vets around. I think someone there either uses him as their vet or it is just plain laziness on the part of the reporters there. I mean, why work hard when you are in a union and the paper you are working for wants to cut your pay and perks?
As for talking with Dr. Bob, I have, on many occasions and even visited the facility. As I have said in previous posts, I have not heard great things about Sylvania Vet, their prolific use of drugs that are sponsored by the large pharmaceuticals regardless of the manufacturer's own stated contraindications (Domitor being one example), I just am not comfortable with that. Coupled with the costliness of this vet, I would not take my poor dead dog there! The only thing I can kind of give him credit for is refusing to work with this puppy mill store. You would think he would have because income is income but, at the very least, he did that. Maybe he just not need the additional income from this store because of all of the free advertising he gets in THE BLADE and Toledo Free Press! ??????

The reason Dr Bob was quoted is the owners went to him first. AND he is willing to put his opinions out there. Whether I agree with him on everything or not, I give him credit for speaking out for what he believes in. A lot of people in this town won't, for fear someone might take offense and they'd lose business. It apparently hasn't hurt what is clearly a very successful vet practice either.

Does anyone know if Puppy World is hiring ?

I know someone that just LOVES puppies !!!

"My guess is the Blade chooses him because he is respected (even the Blade can get it right sometimes), well liked,and makes his views known."

For a newspaper to keep going to the same source for comment is highly questionable when there are a number of similar experts. The Blade has an agenda, and he fits it. And he puts himself out there for free advertising.

"The reason Dr Bob was quoted is the owners went to him first. AND he is willing to put his opinions out there.

Let's see. He says, `Pet stores are bad." Duhhhh. The Blade couldn't find a vet who says the same thing? C'mon.

"I have not heard great things about Sylvania Vet..."

Me, neither, golddustwoman. I put his name and facility in the search engine, and saw a mixed bag, at best.

I disagree Bike. It's not Esplin's fault the Blade doesn't use other vets. To say he puts himself out there for advertising is ludicrous; he’s been around a long , long time ..independent of the Blade, long before the Blade began quoting him. Have you spoken to him? If not, your accusations are purely conjecture. Why don't you give him a call? If you get the chance to talk to him I'll bet you'd be pleasantly surprised.

Esplin does put himself out there, big time. Heck, I believe he even had a radio show at one point and was on one of the tv stations "ask the expert" segments as a back-up for the late Dr. Thornton from Point Place.
I know what you are saying bikerdude- there is a ton on a site called dogsadversereactions. Scary stuff.
AND... How did the Blahh know the pet owner went to him first? Do you believe the puppy mill shop owner would tell the Blahh, especially if Esplin told him he was unwilling to do what was needed to be done! I believe the owner did go to Dr. Bob first because he is in Sylvania. But, I would put money down that Dr. Bob is the one who tipped the Blade off that HE was the one called upon first and because of HIS ethical standards, decided not to do the health screenings.
Oh, BTW.. go to the Sylvania Vet Website and see this vet BEG for people to vote him "Vet of the Year" again for another media rag award. He shamelesly self promotes and anyone who can't see that is not looking at the reality.
Like I said, reporters are lazy and maybe someone at The Blaah should give them a list of other vets in town who could speak on subjects concerning pets!

We've used Sylvania Vet in the past for our cats and our dog, and we'll continue to do so in the future. I don't need anyone else to make that decision for me.

Multiple times Dr. Bob was the doctor for issues related to my old cat, and I was pleased with Dr. Bob's service. When my cat needed overnight stays at the vet, I could visit my cat anytime I wanted, including on Thanksgiving day, eleven at night, and six in the morning. I would call frequently for updates from the technicians, and they took the time to inform me of my cat's latest condition.

Did I drop some coin over the final six months of my 18-year-old cat's life? You bet, and I would do it all over again.

He didn't just say he doesn't like pet stores. He said he advised the owners ahead of time there would be issues with the local rescue community and he was right. As far as other vets, if there were others willing to take on the dog pound years ago over micropchipping (when they wouldn't) and willing to take a stand against breed specific laws banning pitbulls, well, too bad they didn't give the Blade a call.
I don't go to SVH and there are issues I disagree with him on too. I too know people who love him and others, not so much. I stand by what I said. He's one of a handful of people around here willing to put himself out there on some of the issues in this area. If it's self promotion, oh well. He's not alone in that category by any means.

He didn't just say he doesn't like pet stores. He said he advised the owners ahead of time there would be issues with the local rescue community and he was right. As far as other vets, if there were others willing to take on the dog pound years ago over micropchipping (when they wouldn't) and willing to take a stand against breed specific laws banning pitbulls, well, too bad they didn't give the Blade a call.
I don't go to SVH and there are issues I disagree with him on too. I too know people who love him and others, not so much. I stand by what I said. He's one of a handful of people around here willing to put himself out there on some of the issues in this area. If it's self promotion, oh well. He's not alone in that category by any means.

Let me ask this: I have heard through the grapevine that the store owner has approached several vets to treat the dogs, but all have rebuffed him because they are afraid that the humaniacs are going to boycott the vet's offices next. From what I am seeing here, that is a legitimate concern. But isn't that like punishing a doctor for treating the child of an abusive family? If these dogs need help, a vet should feel like he can treat them without his reputation being besmirched. The vet isn't condoning Puppy World, he is treating sick animals.

"AND... How did the Blahh know the pet owner went to him first?"

That is my point. Many times when I turn on the tv, Fox, WTOL, WTVG, he is on there talking about some issue. I think he is playing the media for free advertising, and I think the media should see he has his own personal agenda to advertise for free. I have seen other vets comment in smaller publications, so to say he steps up to the plate for the good of the animal community because no other vet will is bogus. I just question the ethics of the media going to the same guy for comment. Or, as golddustwoman says, maybe Esplin is the one contacting the media to promote himself.

When he urged the public in an article to stop paying for dog licenses until improvements were made at the dog pound, he started doing some serious backtracking the next day after he got his ass kicked by animal advocates who said it was a stupid idea that would cause an increase dogs getting killed at the pound.

From my understanding, all they are looking for from vets are "health certificates" which are based on a 10 minute exam and say the puppy is showing no signs of disease at that point in time. They're a way of making someone who would pay $400 for a mixed breed "puggle" feel like they are getting something for their money but they mean nothing. They aren't going to guarantee your puppy won't have severe congenital problems in a year or even that your puppy won't come down with parvovirus in 2 days. There's no reason at all to believe a FOR PROFIT pet store would (for example) spend $1000s treating a dozen or more puppies for parvo themselves, if they would happen to bring one sick puppy in and end up dealing with a whole pet store full of seriously ill puppies. I'm sure however if they do contact some of these same vets under those circumstances they would find someone willing to treat the puppies.

"I have heard through the grapevine that the store owner has approached several vets to treat the dogs, but all have rebuffed him because they are afraid that the humaniacs are going to boycott the vet's offices next."

I hope that's just a rumor. I presume the protesters are animal advocates who have nothing but the animals' welfare in mind. If they were to threaten any vet with protests for caring for these animals, that would be repugnant.

-- "I have heard through the grapevine that the store owner has approached several vets to treat the dogs, but all have rebuffed him because they are afraid that the humaniacs are going to boycott the vet's offices next."

-- "I hope that's just a rumor. f they were to threaten any vet with protests for caring for these animals, that would be repugnant."

It appears to be true, so I guess you'll have to protest the protesters.

Read the above Nov 13 comment, which points to a thread on the Stop Puppy World Facebook page.

A Nov 12, 2010 Facebook comment:

Why would they be concerned about the vet?

Other Facebook comments:

A Nov 13, 2010 Toledo Blade story revealed the vet that is helping Puppy World:

Then came this thread about the West Toledo Animal Hospital on the Stop Puppy World Facebook page

Do you still think it sounds like a rumor?

Nov 13, 2010 thread on the Stop Puppy World Facebook page:

Nov 15, 2010 thread on the Stop Puppy World Facebook page:

I don't think the Blade has published an article yet for the West Toledo Animal Hospital.

"I presume the protesters are animal advocates who have nothing but the animals' welfare in mind."

Assuming Puppy World is still in business, it appears nobody is providing care or whatever for those dogs.

"Assuming Puppy World is still in business, it appears nobody is providing care or whatever for those dogs."

What care do you think they would be providing?! They're being sold without shots. They're not being fixed. Nothing about wanting a vet for "health certificates" suggest they'll treat illnesses.
It probably would have been a bit more responsible to be CERTAIN they had a vet before they brought in puppies from wherever they got them. Obviously they weren't prepared for illnesses if they were still approaching vets AFTER they were here.

Totally correct CanineAsylum! The certificates only state puppy is healthy at time of inspection. The puppy is not tested for heartworm or hereditary diseases like hip displaysia. No vet in their right mind would want to work with this store because if the puppy did turn out to have issues, their reputation is on the line.

"Do you still think it sounds like a rumor?"

If vets are rejecting examining the pups for certificates, I understand. But if a vet rejects treating a pup that is critically ill or injured, it would be a disgrace.

"As for talking with Dr. Bob, I have, on many occasions and even visited the facility."

golddustwoman, I noticed you have said this before in other threads. Are you a regulator of, or involved in, the veterinary profession? Just interested, since you seem to know a lot about the profession, including the use of medications. I'm guessing you are a vet tech, or was at one time.

"What care do you think they would be providing?!"

I don't know, and I don't care, which is why I said: "... it appears nobody is providing care or whatever ..."

Bikerdude: You trying to call me out, man, or what? LOL... OK, here goes, no, I am not a vet or vet tech or a regulator.. I am a journalist who has done dozens of stories concerning pets, pet meds, lost pets, found pets, and quite a few stories on Sylvania Vet itself over a 2 year span of time. When I say I have spoken to Dr. Bob, I have spoken to Dr. Bob on quite a number of occassions including a close to 2.5 hour interview which included a tour of his facility.
I am also a pet owner- a male Sheltie and female cat. Because of the amount of research I have done on the vet profession and continue to do on the profession as well the medications given to pets, I can speak with a little knowledge.
Actually, I advise everyone to do research on the vet they are choosing- there are tons of resources out there to check on a vet's reputation. You can also call the Ohio Veterinary Board for information. Please also check on the meds your vet wishes to give your pet. There is plenty of info out there. Hopefully, everyone finds a vet they love and that is willing to answer their questions concerning the need for procedures and medications.
I have not been very quiet on how I feel about the Sylvania practice. I have a real issue with a veterinary practice celebrating "winning" a trip from a huge pharamceutical for members of its staff to go to Hawaii. If this sounds familiar, it is, and has been in the national media for years concerning physicians getting these "perks" from drug companies just for prescribing their meds frequently. Let's just say it left a bad taste in my mouth.

Sorry, golddustwoman, didn't meant to "call you out." Just wonderin. Thanks for your candor.

"Please also check on the meds your vet wishes to give your pet. There is plenty of info out there."

Now that there's the internet, there's no excuse not to check out meds for your pet, since I never know about contraindications (yes, there are those pesky adverse affects in pets, too)unless I look it up.

"I have a real issue with a veterinary practice celebrating "winning" a trip from a huge pharamceutical for members of its staff to go to Hawaii. If this sounds familiar, it is, and has been in the national media for years concerning physicians getting these "perks" from drug companies just for prescribing their meds frequently."

There was a major study done back in the 60s that showed when health care practitioners accept "freebies" from pharmaceutical companies, it influences their choice of medications to use - medications that may not be suitable for a patient. I thought the pharmaceutical companies were supposed to stop that crap? A lot of physicians have stopped accepting such "gifts" because of the extensive research done on the issue.

It wa supposed tro have been stopped and is considered illegal but there are loopholes. Special "programs" that these drug co's. use to teach vets how to use their drugs off label and then to promote the off label uses to other vets, you would be amazed.
I question my own physician concerning meds he wants me on so I figure I will also question meds my vet wants my pets on as well. They can't do it for themselves.

- Multiple times Dr. Bob was the doctor for issues related to my old cat, and I was pleased with Dr. Bob's service -

I'm glad your pets got treated well, jr, by Dr. Bob. I went once, and the horror of what happened to her is beyond words. As golddustwoman said, I wouldn't take a dead dog there. He's obviously a great vet for some, and an awful vet for others.

I once rescued a Moluccan cockatoo that developed cancer in its wing. I entrusted its care to a vet and it cost me $1,300. It died but they made it “Pet-of the Month”!

"As golddustwoman said, I wouldn't take a dead dog there."

Neither would I. A dog I adopted got screwed up real bad by Esplin. He was cold, detached, very rude regarding my dog, which was elderly.

golddustwoman, I think I know who you are, an investigative reporter who writes for several publications, including one that was about pets, medications, vaccinations, and a couple stories about Sylvania Vet, which really blew me away. Was that you in Secor Metropark a few years back promoting the pet publication? I went up to your booth and we talked a little about the dangers of Rimadyl (sp?) and other meds for pets. I still have a copy of the issue, and I love it as a reference for just about everything I would need to know about dogs and cats. Never read anything like it before - quotes from national experts, phone numbers to pharmaceutical companies to report med reactions, changes in vaccination protocol, etc. I was very impressed. I've used it so often, it's got some serious tears in it. I wish I had another one. I could have sworn I was told that the publication was supposed to be distributed throughout Toledo, but I never saw another issue.

Does anyone know if the protests have slowed business at the pet store? Was wondering...

Gemini: No, I was not at the metropark for that event but I am glad that you enjoyed the Pet Tab. It took seven months of work and investigation and research. As a staff, we were very much hoping that people would use it as a reference as you have and we hoped people would be able to use what they learn when they speak to their own vets concerning their pet's medical issues. Thanks for the compliments! It was a multiple-award winning publication, by the way...(:

"Does anyone know if the protests have slowed business at the pet store? Was wondering..."

I don't know what their business would be like without people out there (or what it's like when no one is) BUT I do know the owner posted a snide comment about "watching clowns perform" on their FB wall. No business info at all like hours or puppy pictures but they're obviously blaming protesters for something. <shrug>

Update: Now they've taken the page down entirely.

I took my cat for an overnight procedure. I dropped her off early in the morning, and picked her up the next afternoon. When she got home, she went right to her water dish, and drank almost a pint, right straight down. She had to have been close to 30+hours without water. And yes, Sylvania Bob got a serious earful, and no more business from me, ever.

Sorry to hear about your experience but, unfortunately, I have heard a lot of not great things from others. How is your cat now?

This was a few years ago. She has since died, at 16 years old.

Wulf, sorry about your bad experience there. Very fortunate that she survived, despite the fact it could have died from dehydration. I almost took a reltaive's older pet there a few years ago that needed surgery, did some research, and decided to stay away from that place. I swear, if what happened to your cat had happened to mine, I would have popped the vet in the nose. Inexcusable. Our pets are like our kids. They are not replaceable!

I was curious what became of this store? Haven't heard anything about it. Any updates? Thanks!

I was thinking about that, too. Wonder if it's still open after all the publicity and protests.

I live around the corner from Mayberry. Next time I drive past there, I'll take a peek.

We haven't been in Mayberry as often as usual due to the cold weather. (Imagine that - haven't felt like going out for ice cream with all this snow. lol)

They're still open. Someone was there few weeks ago, still an assortment of overpriced "designer" mixes (some of which you couldn't give away if they were dumped in pound.) Had a few exchanges with her on their facebook page. She claims she's doing great, find it impossible to believe. I've also heard people are getting sick puppies and one died after she sold it. Not that we're all fair weather protesters (but we are LOL) but we should be back out there reminding her we haven't forgotten her when weather breaks.