Homepage Official Health Guarantee Form in PDF
Content Navigation

When bringing a new puppy into your home, understanding the Health Guarantee form is essential for both buyers and breeders. This document outlines the responsibilities and expectations of both parties involved in the sale of a canine. It begins with details about the puppy, including its breed, sex, date of birth, and registration information, ensuring that buyers have a clear understanding of the specific dog they are acquiring. The form also specifies the total cost of the puppy, along with any shipping or delivery fees, and requires a non-refundable deposit to secure the purchase. A crucial aspect of the Health Guarantee is the stipulation that the puppy must be examined by a veterinarian within 72 hours of delivery. This examination is vital to confirm the puppy's health status and to ensure that any life-threatening defects can be addressed promptly. Should such defects be discovered, the buyer is entitled to a replacement puppy, provided that the proper procedures are followed. Additionally, the form emphasizes the importance of maintaining the puppy's health through regular veterinary care, while also placing the onus of responsibility on the buyer for any associated costs. The Health Guarantee further clarifies that the breeder cannot be held liable for certain conditions that may arise after the puppy leaves their care. This comprehensive agreement aims to protect both the buyer and the breeder, ensuring a smooth transition for the new puppy into its forever home.

Steps to Using Health Guarantee

Completing the Health Guarantee form is an important step in ensuring a clear agreement between the buyer and the breeder. Following these steps will help you accurately fill out the form, ensuring all necessary details are provided.

  1. Begin by entering the breed of the canine in the designated space.
  2. Indicate the sex of the canine by checking the appropriate box.
  3. Fill in the date of birth of the canine.
  4. Provide the color and pattern of the canine.
  5. If applicable, enter the registration number and type of registration.
  6. Fill in the sire's registration number if available.
  7. Include the dam's registration number if available.
  8. Write the total cost of the canine, excluding shipping costs.
  9. If shipping or delivery is required, list the associated costs.
  10. Enter the non-refundable deposit amount and the date it was paid.
  11. Specify the remaining balance due before receiving the canine.
  12. Indicate the date by which the remaining balance must be paid.
  13. Initial the section agreeing to the terms of health and care for the canine.
  14. Sign and print your name at the bottom of the form.
  15. Provide your address, city, state, zip code, phone number, and email.
  16. Finally, fill in the date of the agreement and the date of pickup.

Key takeaways

When filling out and using the Health Guarantee form for your Decker Terrier puppy, keep these key points in mind:

  • Timely Veterinary Examination: Ensure that your puppy is examined by a veterinarian within 72 business hours of delivery or pickup. If you fail to do this, the contract and its guarantees may become void.
  • Notification of Health Issues: If your puppy is diagnosed with a life-threatening defect within the first six months, notify the breeder in writing within two business days. You must return the puppy within a reasonable timeframe after the exam.
  • No Treatment Without Consent: Do not proceed with any treatment or surgery on the puppy until you have contacted the breeder for a second opinion. This is crucial for maintaining your guarantee.
  • Replacement Policies: If a defect is confirmed, a replacement puppy will be offered as soon as one becomes available. Remember, no cash refunds will be given, and all sales become final if you choose to keep the puppy.

Misconceptions

Understanding the Health Guarantee form is crucial for both buyers and breeders. However, there are several misconceptions that can lead to confusion. Here are ten common misunderstandings:

  1. Buyers are entitled to a full refund if the puppy is found to have a defect. Many believe that if a defect is discovered, they can simply return the puppy for a cash refund. In reality, the agreement specifies that no cash refunds are provided; instead, buyers may receive a replacement puppy.
  2. The health guarantee lasts indefinitely. Some people think that the health guarantee is valid for the lifetime of the dog. However, the guarantee specifically covers conditions diagnosed within a set timeframe, such as life-threatening defects identified within six months.
  3. All veterinary costs are covered by the breeder. Many assume that the breeder will cover any medical expenses incurred. The contract clearly states that buyers are responsible for all vet costs associated with the puppy.
  4. The buyer can change the puppy's diet immediately. It is a common belief that dietary changes can be made right away. The form advises against changing the puppy’s food for at least one week to avoid stress-related health issues.
  5. The breeder is responsible for any health issues after the sale. Some buyers think that the breeder remains liable for the puppy’s health once it leaves their care. The agreement specifies that the breeder does not cover illnesses or injuries occurring after the puppy has been delivered.
  6. The buyer can return the puppy at any time for any reason. There is a misconception that buyers can return the puppy whenever they wish. The contract outlines specific conditions under which returns are accepted, particularly concerning health defects.
  7. The breeder guarantees the puppy’s temperament and trainability. Many buyers believe that the breeder guarantees how the puppy will behave or respond to training. However, the form states that the breeder does not guarantee temperament or trainability.
  8. The health guarantee applies to all diseases. Some think that the guarantee covers any illness the puppy may face. The agreement explicitly lists certain conditions that are not covered, such as stress-induced illnesses or diseases contracted after leaving the breeder's premises.
  9. Buyers can perform treatments without consulting the breeder. A misconception exists that buyers can proceed with any medical treatment without input from the breeder. The contract requires buyers to contact the breeder before any treatment is undertaken.
  10. The contract is negotiable after signing. Many believe that they can change the terms of the contract after it has been signed. However, the document constitutes the entire agreement, and any changes must be agreed upon by both parties before signing.

Understanding these misconceptions can help buyers navigate the Health Guarantee form more effectively and ensure a smoother experience when bringing a new puppy into their home.

Preview - Health Guarantee Form

DECKER TERRIER PUPPY CONTRACT/HEALTH GUARANTEE

I, Kimberly Seegmiller, the Breeder/seller, do here by agree to sale of one (1) canine of the following description:

Breed: ____________________ Sex: ______ Date of Birth: ______________Color:

______________ Pattern: __________________

Registration # (if applicable): _____________________. Type of registration:

__________________.

Sire: Reg. # (if applicable): _______________________. Dam: Reg. # (if applicable):

___________________________.

Total Cost of above Canine: $_____________ . (Not including shipping costs)

Shipping/Delivery Costs, if needed: $______________ . (Includes air-fare, crate, and veterinarian

health certificate).

Non-Refundable Deposit: $____________ . Date Paid: ____________(This contract must

accompany the deposit).

Remaining Balance $_____________ , is to be paid in full prior to the buyer receiving the canine.

Balance to be paid _____________

I, the Buyer do hereby agree to buy the above mentioned Canine, and agree to the following terms and conditions:

The Canine listed above appears to be in good health at the time of the sale, and embodies the characteristics of the breed named above. This Canine is purebred with purebred parents. The Breeder believes this above described canine to be in good health at the time of delivery.

The Buyer is to have this Canine examined by a veterinarian of their choice within 72 business hours from time of delivery or pickup. Failure to do so will void this contract and its guarantees. If within those 72 hours the puppy is found to have a life-threatening defect, the buyer may return the puppy for a replacement puppy (with equal or lesser value; with same coat, color or gender) as soon as one becomes available. If the Canine is found to have a fatal or severe life-altering genetic defect by the age of 6 month’s that is diagnosed by the Buyer’s licensed veterinarian, the buyer has two (2) business days to notify the Breeder of their veterinarian’s findings in writing, and the puppy will be returned to the breeder within a reasonable time frame after the exam (as determined by the Seller). This problem must be recognized by a licensed vet and a written copy of the tests/procedures performed and the diagnosis must be sent to the seller within 10 days of the diagnosis of the condition. FURTHERMORE, NO TREATMENT OR SURGERY SHALL BE DONE ON THE PUPPY UNTIL THE SELLER IS CONTACTED AND HAS TIME TO CONFER FOR A SECOND OPINION. In addition, BUYER will be responsible for any and all vet costs associated with the puppy. No refunds will be given to the buyer for vet costs. When the buyer has decided to return a puppy (with defects such as those listed above) and seller has been notified, the puppy must be returned to the seller within 2 weeks of written notification to the buyer. If the buyer decides to keep a puppy in the event of a defect being found (and does not

make arrangements to return the puppy within 2 weeks of notification of defect), the buyer no longer has any obligation to replace the puppy at any later date. If the puppy is returned due to life threatening defects (those listed above), and if Kimberly (the seller) vet agrees to the diagnosis of the condition after conferring with the buyer’s vet, then a replacement pup will be issued as soon as one becomes available.

In the event of the puppy’s death a necropsy must be performed to determine the cause of death and the buyer will be responsible for these charges; Breeder is in no way responsible for payment of this exam, or any other medical or veterinarian charges. The Buyer understands that the Breeder offers No Cash Refunds. If the buyer qualifies for a puppy replacement then the purchase price will be put towards another Canine of equal or lesser value when one becomes available. Under no circumstances will refunds be made in lieu of a replacement. If Buyer rejects a replacement puppy, all sales become final. The Buyer is responsible for all expenses in the return of the Canine. Under NO CONDITION will the breeder replace this canine where the breeder was not advised of its being ill beforehand or "put to sleep" without the breeder’s permission.

All appropriate shots for the canine’s age have been given, and a record of this vaccination history is supplied at time of delivery. The Buyer agrees to maintain the canine’s health in good condition, and to provide yearly examinations, vaccinations, heartworm, and any other usual procedures necessary to assure good health. The Breeder has done everything possible to produce healthy sound canines both by breeding only dogs that are free of hip, elbow, and spinal disc dysplasia, and by raising the canines in the best way possible in regards to diet, exercise, socialization and veterinary care. The Buyer agrees to provide a suitable and safe area for this canine. The Breeder’s guarantee does NOT cover any liability for any injury, or illness caused by stress induced hypoglycemia, canine influenza, pneumonia, parasites internal or external, ringworm, coccidiosis, giardia, hepatitis, other diseases/illnesses/viruses, or mites after leaving our care. There are all types of parasites that lie dormant and that can be brought on by stress or change of environment due to allergies etc., and there is no way to predict how a pup will cope with the change. This is why the buyer agrees to not change the puppy’s dog food for at least 1 week after pickup as to not stress the puppy more than necessary. Also, there is no guarantee against any diseases contracted after leaving Seegmiller Kennel premises. I do my best to provide a clean, healthy, safe environment and to ensure that the buyer is getting a healthy pup.

Buyer’s initials to agree to terms of first page: _________

There are many factors that can influence growth and development, such as diet, exercise, weight gain, etc. The Buyer assumes the responsibility to carry on with the appropriate vaccinations, exercise and feedings schedule, recommended by the Buyer’s veterinarian.

The seller promises to try to be a lifelong assistant with the buyer’s puppy in regards to being available for advice if needed. Kimberly, the breeder/seller, deeply cares for all animals that go on to new homes and requests that the buyer call or email her if needed. Also, Kimberly, the

breeder/seller has first right of refusal to the puppy if the buyer at any time no longer is able or no longer wants the dog in question. In that case, Kimberly will try to find the puppy a new home.

The Breeder/Seller can offer no further guarantees once the care of the canine is no longer under their control. Seegmiller Kennel only guarantees a pet quality dog and in no way implies or guarantees the ability to breed or show the dog. Therefore, the Breeder does not make any guarantees as to the canine’s adult size, weight, hair, coat, skin conditions, temperament, or train-ability of the canine. The Breeder neither makes nor implies any warranties or guarantees, express or implied, other than those written in the agreement including, without limitation, the warranties of merchantability and fitness. This document constitutes the entire agreement between the Breeder and Buyer with legal respect to this sale. If there are any disagreements or discrepancies, they must be handled in the state of Missouri and the county of Schuyler, at the buyer’s expense in regards to all legal fees.

The Buyer’s signature below indicates that He/She has read, agrees, and does understand all the conditions of this contract and agrees with the sales agreement.

_________________________________ ___________________________________

Buyer’s Signature Breeder’s / Seller Signature (Kimberly Seegmiller) Printed Name:_________________________________

Address:_____________________________________

City, State, Zip:________________________________

Phone number: ________________________________

Email: ______________________________________

Date of agreement: ________________________

Date of pickup: ___________________________

Document Specs

Fact Name Description
Health Examination Requirement The buyer must have the puppy examined by a veterinarian within 72 business hours of delivery.
Life-Threatening Defects If a life-threatening defect is found within 72 hours, the buyer can return the puppy for a replacement.
Genetic Defects Notification Buyers must notify the breeder of any severe genetic defects within two business days of diagnosis.
Return Timeline Puppies must be returned within two weeks if defects are found, or the buyer forfeits replacement options.
No Cash Refunds The breeder does not offer cash refunds, only replacements under certain conditions.
Veterinary Costs The buyer is responsible for all veterinary costs associated with the puppy, including any return shipping.
Health Guarantee Limitations The guarantee does not cover conditions caused by stress, environmental changes, or diseases contracted after leaving the breeder's care.
Breeder's Responsibility The breeder guarantees a pet quality dog but does not guarantee breeding ability, size, or temperament.
Governing Law This contract is governed by the laws of Missouri, specifically in Schuyler County.