Several years ago, a disturbing trend began in young Hollywood: the live, tiny dog as an accessory for the disgustingly rich, talent-challenged, media-starved vixens of our celebrity culture (Paris, Lindsey, Nicole Ritchie, etc.) The unsettling thing about this is that, although most of us recognize how ridiculous a little inbred Chihuahua looks peeking out of one’s cleavage at a red carpet event, the trend amongst celebrities has created a demand among the common folk and caused a surge in illegal dog smuggling from eastern Europe.

This smuggling increase has been aided further by the lowering of EU boarder controls in an effort to create free trade amongst European nations. Smugglers looking for profit don’t care about proper breeding techniques or the health of the puppies; they produce as many dogs as possible to maximize profit. According to TimesOnline, dogs are bred in filthy conditions and then crammed into cages and cardboard boxes in Hungary, the Czech Republic, and Poland and are shipped as far west as Sweden. In the U.S., it’s estimated that up to 500,000 puppies a year are grown in filthy puppy mills.

Four Paws International recognizes the growing problem and sympathizes with the puppies as well as the uninformed buyers, stating, “A visit to the vet represents the last hope for the duped buyer, but when the dog is found to be ill, it is often too late. Despite high treatment costs, many animals die or must be put down by the vet.” The situation could be mended by better consumer awareness.

If you are looking for a stylish purebred dog, know the breeder and where your pet comes from. The American Kennel Club has information on reputable breeders and what to look for when purchasing a healthy puppy. And if you’re seeking a simple companion dog (without the complications of a purebred or the costs!) check out The Humane Society.