Obama puppy a gem but animal groups warn of backyard breeders

Bo, the new First Puppy.   The White House

Photos of the luscious new First Puppy have already gone viral.

No doubt, the 6-month-old Portugese water dog, named Bo - its AKC registered name is Amigo's New Hope - will grace the front page of every U.S. newspaper when he paws his way into the White House on Tuesday.

The Washington Post, which was promised the First Puppy exclusive, is reporting that Sasha and Malia are thrilled with their new four-legged White House companion.

But animal groups are expressing their disappointment in the presidential decision to acquire a dog from a breeder — a decision that is in sharp contrast to the President's earlier pledge to adopt a rescue dog.

President Obama originally promised to adopt a shelter dog. Bo is said to have lived with a family that decided not to keep him, but that won't likely satisfy animal rescue advocates who wanted the Obamas to take in a stray.

To help ease disappointment, according to the Washington Post, the family will make a donation to the District of Columbia Humane Society.

But even the most generous donation will not undo the missed opportunities.

It was a chance to send the message to the world that it's really cool to adopt from a shelter.

The Humane Society of the United Stated yesterday released a statement both thanking the Obama’s for giving a dog a second chance, but warned the public of backyard breeders who may take advantage of the public's increased interest in Portuguese water dogs.

“We see faddism when it comes to pet-keeping in the movies, and we may see that scenario play out in the case with the First Family’s selection of a Portuguese water dog,” said HSUS president Wayne Pacelle.  “There are reputable breeders of these dogs, yet sadly we expect disreputable puppy mill operators to start producing them as well, intent on cashing in on the heightened awareness of this breed.”

If history repeats itself, Portugese water dog puppies will be in the pet store windows in just a short time.  Everyone will want one; it will drive up demand for breeders - reputable and irresponsible puppy mills to mass produce them, and then many of the dogs will land back in the shelters.

It happened with Disney's "101 Dalmations" and every movie that has featured a cute dog. 

Pacelle says President Obama can do even more for animal protection, helping enforce existing animal welfare laws and cracking down on the national shame of rampant puppy mills in America.

More than three million healthy dogs and cats are euthanized every year in shelters across America. At the same time, there are more than 10,000 puppy mills churning out dogs for the pet trade to be sold to unsuspecting buyers.

Here are the top five reasons to adopt your pet:

1. You'll save a life.  Sadly, three million healthy and treatable dogs and cats are euthanized each year in the United States simply because too many people give up their pets and too few people adopt from shelters. With more pets entering shelters due to the current economic downturn, it’s more important than ever to consider adoption and give these pets a chance at a loving home.

2. You'll get a healthy pet.  Animal shelters are brimming with happy, healthy animals just waiting for someone to take them home. Most shelters examine and give vaccinations to animals when they arrive, and many spay or neuter them before being adopted. In addition to medical care, more and more shelters also screen animals for specific temperaments and behaviors to make sure each family finds the right pet for its lifestyle.

3. You'll save money.  Adopting a pet from an animal shelter is much less expensive than buying a pet at a pet store or through other sources. In addition, animals from many shelters are already spayed or neutered and vaccinated, which makes the shelter's fee a real bargain.

4. You'll feel better. Pets have a way of putting a smile on your face and a spring in your step. Not only do animals give you unconditional love, but they have been shown to be psychologically, emotionally and physically beneficial. Caring for a companion animal can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment and lessen feelings of loneliness and isolation in all age groups.

5. You’ll help stop puppy mills. By adopting instead of buying a pet, you can be certain you aren't supporting cruel puppy mills with your money. Puppy mills will continue to operate until people stop purchasing their puppies. Instead of buying, visit your local shelter where you will find healthy, well-socialized puppies and adult dogs—including purebreds—just waiting for that special home—yours.

Do you feel let down by the President's choice? Do you believe he should have adopted a shelter dog, or are you okay with his decision to buy from a breeder?