Calling for awareness of poor breeding operations in States which source to pet stores in the Commonwealth, Virginia’s General Assembly declared December Puppy Mill Awareness Month. Beginning in December 2020, the awareness provides an opportunity for companion animal advocates to remind consumers to be alert to pet sources where breeding and living conditions can not be seen. Virginia’s strict breeding requirements have driven large commercial breeding operations from the state, to less regulated regions. Those puppies and kittens are transported for sale in Virginia pet stores.