Oh, I'm so sorry you lost Sparkey! I have lost 5 over the years and each one breaks my heart a little more.
As for the smugglers, they, like puppy mills would be out of business in a heartbeat if the puppy buying public would use their heads. Don't buy puppies from middle men (this includes pet shops, flea markets, people in the Walmart parking lot, etc). Do your research before you buy a puppy and see what sorts of health problems the breed has so you can know which health clearances the parents should have and what they should look like (and yes, you should ask to see them). Deal with a breeder who wants to know about YOU and not just if your check will clear. OR get your puppy from a humane shelter.
susie
I'm a German Shepherd person myself. You better believe I know all about hip dysplasia and OFA certifications.