Puppy Mill Awareness and Canine Companions for Independence with WGN

Renata Block talks HERE on my WGN Radio Steve Dale’s Pet World show about Canine Companions for Independence (CCI) and National Puppy Mill Awareness Day (that was September 16), and the Puppy Mill Project  Awareness March on Michigan Avenue.

The march happened, but you can watch a part of it here. Buying from a pet store means there’s no way NO WAY you are purchasing from a responsible breeder. Pet stores get their supplies from commercial facilities and puppy mills. Period.

Renata is shocked by what I have to say

Renata says CCI is a national non-profit organization that enhances the lives of people with disabilities by providing highly trained assistance dogs and ongoing support to ensure quality partnerships. I suggest on-air that their own mission statement doesn’t go far enough, and that CCI dogs more than enhance lives, they often times save lives. And Renata explains how childrens’ lives are absolutely changed, and the same is true for their parents.

These dogs aren’t exactly trained in two minutes. This happens from puppy raisers to “bomb-proof” training so as adults the dogs can handle any reasonable situation they find themselves in. 

CCI’s big local benefit is a doggie runway fashion show, HAUTE DOG | CHICAGO. Of course, the show will feature some of latest fall fashions, a silent auction, and more. The show is September 20 at The Peninsula Chicago (108 E Superior St ) 6 to 9 p.m. Lots of Chicago celebrities will walk a pup (dressed in high style) down the runway, including Ravi Baichwal of WLS-TV; Natalie Bomke of Fox Chicago; Suzanne Le Mignot of WBBM-TV as well as illustrator Rosemary Fanti.

Tickets can still be purchased HERE