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Christmas Pets

December 17th, 2009 by flanews

State inspectors want to make sure no one receives a sick puppy for Christmas. The Department of Agriculture has inspectors combing stores statewide looking for sick dogs and cats. As Whitney Ray tells us, when buying a pet, shoppers need verification the animal is at least eight weeks old and has been vaccinated against common diseases.

Butterscotch and Franz frolic in their cage, barking, biting and having a ball. The puppies seem healthy but state inspector want more proof.

Inspectors are making random stops at pet stores to makes sure owners aren’t selling sick puppies as Christmas gifts. When the holiday visits began five years ago, a lot of sellers ended up on the naughty list.

“We found quiet a few violations. A lot of pet shops that we stopped in or breeders or what not, some of them didn’t know they were required to have health certificates,” said Dr. Sam Lamb.

Sellers are required to provide an updated certificate of health with every dog and cat sold. The certificate gives a vaccine history and verifies the animal’s age.

Florida law requires puppies and kittens to be at least eight weeks old before they’re sold.

Carol Hoovers’ store passed inspection with flying colors. She says people increase the risk of ending up with a sick pet if they buy from roadside venders

“It could be a world of heartache if the animal ends up being sick. It could be very expensive if you have to take it to the emergency room over the night or over the weekend,” said Carol.

If the pet gets sick or dies within two weeks the seller has to pay the vet bills. Buyers can also exchange sick animals or ask for a refund. Even with all the inspectors holding pet sellers to a higher standard, many say giving a dog or a cat as a Christmas gift is a bad idea. They suggest letting the owner choose the animal they’d like and making sure the family is ready and willing to add a new member.

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