What is a Puppy Health Guarantee?

A puppy or breeder health guarantee is a contractual agreement between a puppy buyer and a responsible breeder. It outlines the terms and conditions regarding the health and well-being of the puppy being purchased.

The purpose of a health guarantee is to provide assurance to the buyer that the breeder has taken steps to produce healthy puppies and is willing to address any potential health issues that may arise.

Here are some key points covered by Pet Caramel health guarantee:

1. Health Evaluation: The health guarantee may state that the puppy has been examined by a veterinarian and deemed healthy at the time of sale. It may also mention any vaccinations or preventive treatments the puppy has received.
   
2. Genetic Health: The guarantee includes information about the health screening tests performed on the parent dogs to minimize the risk of inherited genetic disorders. The breeder may offer a certain period of time during which genetic health issues will be covered if they arise.
   
3. Timeframe: The health guarantee will specify the duration for which it is valid. It usually ranges for 6 months to 1 year.
   
4. Health Conditions: The guarantee also outline specific health conditions that are covered, such as congenital or hereditary defects. It may also state that the puppy should not be suffering from any illness or infection at the time of purchase.
   
5. Remedies: If a covered health issue arises within the specified timeframe, the health guarantee will describe the remedies available to the buyer. This may include a full or partial refund, replacement of the puppy, or reimbursement of veterinary expenses.
   
6. Responsibilities: The guarantee may outline the responsibilities of both the buyer and the breeder. For example, the buyer may be required to provide proper care, nutrition, and regular veterinary check-ups for the puppy. The breeder may request that the buyer notifies them of any health concerns promptly.

It is important to carefully review and understand the terms of the health guarantee before purchasing a puppy. If any aspects are unclear, it is recommended to seek clarification from the breeder. A reputable breeder should provide a written health guarantee and be willing to address any concerns or questions regarding the guarantee and the overall health of their puppies.

Puppies purchased from Pet Caramel in California

The California Puppy Lemon Law, also known as the “Polanco-Lockyer Pet Breeder Warranty Act,” is a consumer protection law that ensures the rights of consumers who purchase pets, particularly dogs, in California. The law, codified in the California Health and Safety Code sections 122045-122315, imposes certain obligations on breeders and buyers to maintain the welfare of dogs sold in the state.

Obligations of the Breeder

Under the California Puppy Lemon Law, breeders have a range of responsibilities that they must fulfill:

• Health of the Dog

Breeders are obligated to ensure that any dog sold is in good health at the time of sale. Any congenital or hereditary condition that adversely affects the health of the dog at the time of sale or within one year afterward must be disclosed to the buyer. Failure to do so can result in penalties under the law.

• Veterinary Examination

Prior to selling, the breeder must have the dog examined by a veterinarian. The dog must be free from disease or illness, and not suffering from any congenital or hereditary condition which adversely affects the health of the dog at the time of sale.

• Health and Registration Documentation

The breeder must provide the buyer with a written statement at the time of sale that includes the breeder’s name and address, the breed, sex, color, and date of birth of the dog, a record of vaccinations and deworming treatments, and any known disease or illness or congenital or hereditary condition.

• Replacement or Refund

If the purchased dog suffers from a health issue or passes away due to a problem that existed at the time of sale, the breeder is required to offer the buyer a replacement or refund. This applies to conditions that are discovered within 15 days of purchase or one year for congenital or hereditary conditions.

Obligations of the Buyer

The California Puppy Lemon Law also outlines responsibilities for buyers:

• Notification

If the dog develops a health problem, the buyer must notify the breeder immediately. The buyer is required to supply the breeder with a veterinary certification within three days of receiving it. The certification must indicate that the dog has been examined and found to have a disease, illness, or congenital or hereditary condition.

• Care and Maintenance

The buyer is responsible for the general care, safety, and maintenance of the dog after purchase. This includes adequate feeding, housing, and provision of veterinary care.

• Right to Return, Refund, or Replacement

In case the dog suffers from an undisclosed health issue at the time of sale, the buyer has the right to return the dog to the breeder for a refund or ask for a replacement dog. Alternatively, the buyer can choose to keep the dog and receive reimbursement for certain veterinary expenses.

The California Puppy Lemon Law aims to protect consumers from unscrupulous breeders and ensure the health and well-being of dogs sold in the state. It encourages ethical practices among breeders and promotes responsible pet ownership. Buyers and breeders must be aware of their rights and obligations under this law to ensure a fair and transparent transaction.