Lemon Law For Your Pet
Did you know that many states have Lemon Laws that apply to pets?
Really!
Florida has one of the most inclusive buyer protection laws in the nation and it applies to both cats and dogs.
The law requires vaccinations and examinations for all animals prior to sale.
It also provides, in part, that a pet dealer may not knowingly misrepresent the breed, sex, or health of any dog or cat offered for sale within the state.
The definition of a pet dealer also includes active hobby breeders. A pet dealer is defined as anyone who sells more than two litters or twenty animals per year, whichever is greater.
Consumers have two weeks from the purchase date to document contagious or infectious disease and a full year to document congenital or hereditary defects.
The law provides for replacement of the animal, plus reimbursement for veterinary expenses related to certifying the illness, up to the price of the dog.
In addition to monetary damages for the buyer, there may be misdemeanor issues for the seller in violation of the statute.
You can review the entire statute here.
Approximately twenty states have enacted this type of legislation.
Check in your state to see if you have this protection for you and your pets.
