| PETS
Q. What may I ask about a pet before I buy it?
A. You may ask anything. You have a right to know about the pet's
health, family history or
pedigree, training, and medical care, both normal and unusual.
Q. Do states have pet laws that cover an owner's rights?
A. Many states do have such laws. If your state doesn't, then
general warranty laws apply.
Sidebar: Buying Sick or Injured Pets
Suppose you buy a pet, and it turns out that it's sick or injured. Legally,
what can you do? The
answer may depend on whether you bought the pet from a pet shop or a private
owner. It also
may depend on whether you had a written contract, and what express and
implied warranties
exist under your state's laws. It also matters whether you bought this
pet for a specific
purpose, such as breeding it for competition. In general, it's best for
you and the seller to sign
a written agreement about your pet that will clarify most of a new owner's
questions.
Another way of avoiding problems is to ask the seller for the name of
the pet's veterinarian.
Ask the vet for an opinion on the pet's health, which may alert you to
potential problems
before you complete the purchase.
Q. What should I do if I am dissatisfied with my pet purchase?
A. Immediately notify the seller in writing, keeping a copy for
yourself. Keep all contracts,
papers, and even the original advertisement, if there was one. If you
have not received a
replacement or refund within thirty days, consider filing a small-claims
lawsuit. Don't worry
about becoming an expert on pet law. The judge will probably base a decision
on the fairness
of the case, not on technicalities.
|
