The puppies given away at these competitions are forced upon the family of the winning child, whether they want the dog or not. These children are far too young to be ready for the responsibility of a puppy and in result, the care is forced onto older siblings or the parents. Bringing a puppy home needs to be a very well thought out decision instead of just an impulse decision. As a result of this decision, these puppies are taken to the shelter or sold once the "newness" wears off and the child is no longer interested in the puppy. Puppies should be beloved family members and treated as such instead of being given as prizes to these young children. Please cease airing the pageants who continue to give puppies away as prizes.

Sincerly,

Elizabeth Herrington