State's Pet "Lemon Law" Passes House of Representatives

State's Pet "Lemon Law" Passes House of Representatives Pet stores that knowingly sell sick dogs or cats are often betting that their customers "will have fallen in love," by the time they seek veterinary treatment for the animal, state Rep. Supporters say it will help set a higher business standard for pet shops and discourage retailers from using puppy mills to offer their stores. Nine times out of 10 they had fallen in love with the animal," Kupchick said. "We would never force someone to return a dog. But in some cases, customers who asked for the veterinary reimbursement were told they had to return the dog or cat. "In Connecticut, we have several reputable breeders, rescues and shelters that provide healthy dogs and cats for sale or adoption," Kupchick said. "This will allow people to keep their pet," she said. The current law requires pet stores reimburse the new pet owner up to $500 for licensed veterinary care, or replace the animal or provide a full refund to the new pet owner if it becomes ill within 20 days of sale or is found to have a genetic defect within six months of sale. A bill that would close the "love loophole" and allow new pet owners to keep their animals and still be compensated for vet bills, unanimously passed the House of Representatives Friday. The bill, which targets for-profit pet stores, does not apply to shelters and rescue organizations. The measure, which Kupchick helped craft, was expected to be taken up by the Senate late Tuesday or Wednesday. However, Brunner said he believes personal breeders and animal rescue groups should also be covered by the bill's regulations. "It's unfortunate that we have to legislate humane treatment, but the sad truth is, there are individuals who view animals as only a source of profit," she added. "My feeling is if the ruling is good for me, it should be good for anyone selling an animal," said Brunner who's owned the West Hartford pet store for 14 years. Ron Brunner, owner of the West Hartford Puppy Center and Aquarium, said he has no quarrel with the proposed bill. The measure also allows the state agriculture commissioner to fine pet shops, grooming facilities and licensed commercial kennels up to $500 per animal for unsanitary or inhumane conditions or other conditions that pose a danger to public safety. State's Pet "Lemon Law" Passes House of Representatives Trade News selected by Local Linkup on 09/05/2012