A warranty law that became effective July 6, 2007, in Rhode Island allows buyers to recover reimbursements for sick dogs, dogs with congenital conditions, or dogs that die from an illness, disease or other defect that existed on or before they bought the animal. Furthermore, the purchaser is entitled to “all remedies” in the act if the seller misrepresents the breed of an animal, according to the Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council (Washington).

To be entitled to one of several remedies, buyers must obtain a licensed veterinarian’s written statement attesting to the illness or defect within 20 days of purchase, or within two years after the purchase in the case of a congenital or hereditary condition. Buyers also must notify the seller in writing within 10 days of the veterinarian’s diagnosis. Also, at the seller’s request, the purchaser must take the animal for an examination by a licensed veterinarian of the seller’s choice, to be paid for by the seller.

The purchaser may return the animal to the seller for a full refund of the purchase price, exchange the animal for another of the purchaser’s choice that has comparable value, or retain the animal. In addition, the purchaser is entitled to reimbursement of reasonable veterinarian fees (not to exceed the original purchase price of the animal). The seller must make refunds and reimbursements within 10 business days of receipt of a veterinarian’s statement. Additionally, a seller must reimburse 75 percent of the purchase price if registration papers are not provided within 20 days for animals that can be registered.

The law also mandates that sellers must provide a medical history and other detailed information about the dog as well as the breeder’s name and address, and must prominently display a notice on their premises advising purchasers of their rights. Sellers also must maintain a written record on the health and disposition of each dog sold for a period of two years following sale. Finally, both the purchaser and seller must sign a written disclosure statement.