“Cute puppy! Where did you get her?”

“Thanks! I bought her from a puppy mill.”

That’s an exchange you’ll probably never hear at the dog park, veterinarian’s office, or anywhere else that self-respecting dog guardians congregate. By now, most people know that puppy mills are horribly cruel places that should be avoided.

But someone is buying animals from these misery factories, because they’re still in business—and cranking out huge numbers of unhealthy puppies in filthy, cramped conditions every year.

Even among those who claim to “love” dogs, there seems to be a disconnect on this issue. Some people have been lured into handing over cash to dishonest sellers in parking lots after seeing photos of adorable pups online. Others think that they’re in the clear because pet shop managers gave them a vague (and meaningless) assurance that the puppies they sell come from “reputable” sources.

So when PETA was invited to share some information about this topic on the Theory of Pets podcast, we were eager to help listeners understand puppy mills better—and the role that each of us plays in stopping them.

The show tackles issues such as whether it’s a good idea to “save” puppies from puppy mills by buying them (spoiler alert: never!) and what to do if you think you’ve discovered a mass-breeding operation or another situation in which animals are being abused or neglected.

And in true PETA fashion, it pulls no punches, pointing out that no breeders—puppy mills or otherwise—can be considered “responsible,” because every puppy they breed will either take a home away from a dog waiting in a shelter or become homeless, too.

Listen to the whole episode on Theory of Pets to hear more important tips. And if you’re ready to open your heart and home to an animal companion, please “adopt, don’t shop”—and encourage everyone you know to do the same.