Dog by Dog is a documentary that seeks to reach the general public with information about the reality of puppy mills and the politics and pocketbooks that continue to support them. While it had extremely emotional moments, this is not a film filled with graphic footage of abuse. The shots of the empty cages and the tough guy cradling a filthy rescued puppy against his chest are enough. The real impact of the documentary lies in its informed interviews and shocking statistics, as well as exposure of the ways in which corporate agribusiness and the AKC fight against legislation meant to improve conditions for commercially bred dogs. The film was well-researched and effectively delivered, including interviews with rescue volunteers, politicians and heads of animal welfare organizations. The most inspiring part of Dog by Dog - much needed after the discouraging illustration of just how deeply embedded the politics and bureaucracy surrounding legislation of puppy mills are - was the story of Mindi Long, founder of Bailing Out Benji. Since 2011, Mindi has been educating and organizing peaceful pet store protests in her hometown, rain or shine. This film deserves the widest audience possible, in order to effect the kind of change that our loving and loyal but voiceless dogs need to free them from dark cages. Like Blackfish, I hope that this documentary will bring to light the injustices that are regularly covered up by cheery storefronts and flashy websites, and turn people away from pet store doors just as they have been turning away from Sea World.
