Puppy Lemon Law in Pennsylvania: What You Need to Know

In the state of Pennsylvania, there is a unique law in place to protect consumers when purchasing puppies from pet stores and puppy mills. The Puppy Lemon Law provides protections to consumers if a puppy purchased from a pet store or puppy mill has significant health issues. This law was enacted in 2017 in order to reduce the mistreatment of animals, as well as protect consumers from unscrupulous breeders and pet stores who may be selling puppies with genetic or congenital defects. This article will provide an overview of the Puppy Lemon Law, as well as what consumers should know when purchasing a puppy in Pennsylvania.

What is the Puppy Lemon Law?

The Puppy Lemon Law is a law that was enacted in Pennsylvania in 2017 in order to protect consumers who purchase puppies from pet stores and puppy mills. The law states that if a puppy is determined to have a congenital defect or serious illness within one year of purchase, then the pet store or breeder must offer a full or partial refund, or replace the puppy. In addition, if the pet store or breeder refuses to provide a refund or replacement, then the consumer may be eligible for up to $2,500 in compensation.

What Kinds of Defects are Covered Under the Puppy Lemon Law?

The Puppy Lemon Law covers a variety of defects and illnesses. Some of the more common issues that are covered include serious genetic defects, congenital defects, and illnesses that are diagnosed as serious within the first year of the puppy’s life. Examples of serious illnesses that may be covered under the law include but are not limited to distemper, parvo virus, and giardia.

Do I Need to Prove the Defect or Illness?

Yes. In order to be eligible for a refund or replacement, the consumer must provide evidence that the puppy was diagnosed with a serious defect or illness. This evidence may include a veterinarian’s diagnosis or a written statement from a veterinarian. It is important to note that the consumer must provide this evidence within two months of the puppy being diagnosed with the defect or illness.

What Should I Do if I Suspect My Puppy Has a Defect or Illness Covered by the Puppy Lemon Law?

If you suspect that your puppy has a defect or illness that is covered by the Puppy Lemon Law, then it is important to take the puppy to a veterinarian as soon as possible. Your veterinarian can diagnose the defect or illness and provide you with evidence that can be used to file a claim under the law. It is also important to contact the pet store or breeder to inform them of the defect or illness and to inquire about filing a claim.

Conclusion

The Puppy Lemon Law provides important protections for consumers in Pennsylvania who purchase puppies from pet stores and puppy mills. The law ensures that consumers are not stuck with a puppy that has significant health issues, and that they are eligible for a refund or replacement if their puppy is diagnosed with a serious defect or illness. Consumers should contact a veterinarian and the pet store or breeder if they suspect that their puppy has a defect or illness covered by the law.