Homepage > Fill in a Valid Health Guarantee Form

Misconceptions

Misconceptions about the Health Guarantee form can lead to confusion and frustration. Here are seven common misunderstandings:

  1. It guarantees a full refund. Many people believe that the Health Guarantee allows for a full cash refund if the puppy is found to have health issues. In reality, the agreement specifies that no cash refunds will be given; instead, buyers may qualify for a replacement puppy.
  2. Health issues discovered after 72 hours are covered. Some buyers think they can report health issues after the 72-hour examination period. However, if the puppy is not examined within this timeframe, the contract and its guarantees become void.
  3. The breeder is responsible for all vet costs. There is a misconception that the breeder will cover any veterinary expenses. In fact, the buyer is responsible for all vet costs associated with the puppy, including any treatments for health issues.
  4. All health defects are covered. Buyers may assume that any health defect found in the puppy is covered under the guarantee. However, the contract specifically mentions only life-threatening defects diagnosed by a licensed veterinarian.
  5. Changing the puppy's diet is encouraged. Some buyers believe they can change the puppy's food immediately. The contract advises against this, stating that changes should not be made for at least one week to avoid stressing the puppy.
  6. The breeder guarantees the puppy's future health. There is a misconception that the breeder guarantees the puppy's health for life. The guarantee only covers specific conditions and does not extend to any illnesses or injuries that arise after the puppy leaves the breeder's care.
  7. The buyer has unlimited time to return the puppy. Many buyers think they can take their time returning a puppy with health issues. In reality, the contract requires that the puppy be returned within two weeks of notifying the breeder about any defects.

Documents used along the form

The Health Guarantee form is a crucial document for both breeders and buyers of canines. It outlines the responsibilities and expectations of both parties regarding the health and well-being of the puppy. In addition to this form, several other documents are often utilized in the process of purchasing a puppy. Below is a list of these documents, each accompanied by a brief description.

  • Purchase Agreement: This document details the terms of sale, including the price, payment methods, and any additional conditions agreed upon by the buyer and seller.
  • Veterinary Health Certificate: Issued by a licensed veterinarian, this certificate confirms that the puppy is healthy and free from contagious diseases at the time of sale.
  • Registration Papers: If applicable, these documents prove the puppy's pedigree and may include information about the puppy's lineage and breed standards.
  • Microchip Registration Form: This form registers the puppy's microchip with a database, ensuring that the puppy can be identified if lost.
  • Vaccination Records: This document provides a history of the vaccinations the puppy has received, which is essential for the buyer's veterinarian to continue the puppy's healthcare.
  • Return Policy Agreement: This outlines the conditions under which the buyer may return the puppy, including time frames and reasons for return.
  • Buyer’s Responsibility Agreement: This document specifies the obligations of the buyer regarding the care, training, and health maintenance of the puppy.
  • Motor Vehicle Bill of Sale Form: When purchasing a vehicle, ensure you have the comprehensive Motor Vehicle Bill of Sale documentation to facilitate the legal transfer of ownership.
  • Spay/Neuter Agreement: If applicable, this agreement outlines the expectations regarding spaying or neutering the puppy, including timelines and any penalties for non-compliance.

These documents collectively help ensure a clear understanding between the breeder and buyer, promoting the health and welfare of the puppy throughout its life. Each document plays a vital role in the responsible ownership and transfer of canines.

Steps to Filling Out Health Guarantee

Completing the Health Guarantee form is a crucial step in the process of acquiring a puppy. This form outlines the agreement between the buyer and the breeder, ensuring that both parties are aware of their rights and responsibilities. Follow these steps to fill out the form accurately.

  1. Fill in the breed: Write the breed of the puppy in the designated space.
  2. Indicate the sex: Mark the appropriate box for the puppy's sex.
  3. Provide the date of birth: Enter the puppy's date of birth.
  4. Specify the color: Fill in the color of the puppy.
  5. Detail the pattern: Describe any patterns on the puppy's coat.
  6. Registration information: If applicable, write the registration number and type of registration.
  7. List the sire and dam: Enter the registration numbers for both the sire and dam, if available.
  8. State the total cost: Write the total cost of the puppy, excluding shipping costs.
  9. Include shipping costs: If shipping is needed, specify the associated costs.
  10. Record the non-refundable deposit: Enter the amount of the deposit and the date it was paid.
  11. Remaining balance: State the remaining balance to be paid before receiving the puppy.
  12. Sign the agreement: Both the buyer and the breeder must sign the form to indicate their agreement to the terms.
  13. Provide contact information: Fill in the buyer’s printed name, address, phone number, email, and the date of the agreement.
  14. Note the pickup date: Write the date when the puppy will be picked up.

Once the form is completed, it should be reviewed for accuracy before submission. Both parties should retain a copy of the signed document for their records. This will help ensure that the terms are clear and agreed upon, fostering a positive relationship between the buyer and the breeder.

Common mistakes

  1. Incomplete Information: Many buyers fail to fill in all required fields, such as the breed, sex, or registration details of the puppy. This omission can lead to confusion and complications later on.

  2. Ignoring Timeframes: Buyers often overlook the importance of the specified timeframes for veterinary examinations. Failing to have the puppy examined within 72 business hours can void the health guarantees.

  3. Not Documenting Veterinary Findings: Some buyers neglect to provide written documentation from their veterinarian regarding any health issues. Without this, claims for defects may not be honored.

  4. Overlooking Communication: Buyers sometimes do not contact the breeder before initiating any treatments or surgeries. This can lead to misunderstandings and could void the health guarantee.

  5. Misunderstanding Refund Policies: Many buyers mistakenly believe they are entitled to cash refunds. The contract clearly states that no cash refunds will be issued, only replacements.

  6. Failing to Notify in Writing: Buyers may forget to notify the breeder in writing about any health issues within the required timeframe. This oversight can jeopardize their eligibility for a replacement puppy.

  7. Not Initialing Agreement: Some buyers neglect to initial the agreement on the first page, which indicates their understanding and acceptance of the terms. This can lead to disputes later on.

Get Clarifications on Health Guarantee

What is the Health Guarantee for the puppy?

The Health Guarantee ensures that the puppy appears to be in good health at the time of sale. It requires the buyer to have the puppy examined by a veterinarian within 72 business hours of delivery or pickup. If the puppy is found to have a life-threatening defect during this time, the buyer may return the puppy for a replacement of equal or lesser value, as soon as one becomes available.

What happens if a genetic defect is discovered after the initial examination?

If a severe genetic defect is diagnosed by the buyer's veterinarian within six months of the puppy's age, the buyer must notify the breeder in writing within two business days. The puppy must then be returned within a reasonable timeframe. A written copy of the veterinarian's diagnosis and tests must be provided to the breeder within ten days of the diagnosis. The breeder must be contacted before any treatment or surgery is performed on the puppy.

Are there any conditions that void the Health Guarantee?

Yes, several conditions can void the Health Guarantee. These include:

  • Failure to have the puppy examined by a veterinarian within 72 business hours.
  • Not notifying the breeder of a defect within the required timeframe.
  • Performing any treatment or surgery without consulting the breeder first.
  • Keeping the puppy if a defect is found and not returning it within two weeks of notification.

Additionally, the guarantee does not cover illnesses or injuries caused by stress, environmental changes, or diseases contracted after leaving the breeder's care.

What are the buyer's responsibilities under the Health Guarantee?

The buyer is responsible for several key aspects, including:

  1. Ensuring the puppy receives timely veterinary examinations and vaccinations.
  2. Maintaining a suitable and safe living environment for the puppy.
  3. Covering all veterinary costs associated with the puppy's care.
  4. Notifying the breeder of any health issues promptly and following the procedures outlined in the contract.

These responsibilities are crucial for the well-being of the puppy and the validity of the Health Guarantee.