When you’re looking for a new puppy, buy from a breeder that offers a written health guarantee. The guarantee should cover the many aspects of canine health and the recourse taken by both parties in the event of a sick puppy.
But how do you know the guarantee is worth the paper it’s written on?
Here are a few tips to keep in mind the next time you (or a friend) start looking for the breeder that will produce your next puppy:
- Always get a guarantee in writing. A verbal agreement won’t do any good should you need it.
- The guarantee should stipulate what exactly is covered: are all physical and genetic disorders covered or only specific ones (i.e., hips, eyes and heart)?
- The guarantee should stipulate for how long the dog is covered: two years is the standard length, but they vary by breeder and sometimes upon the condition. This gives the dog time to mature, and its bones, eyes and other organs to form completely. Additionally, many late on-set diseases manifest by this time.
- The guarantee should stipulate what happens in the event of a sick puppy: does the breeder ...