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Seeking A Christmas Pet? State Law Regulates Sales

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By JOHN W. ALLMAN

jallman@tampatrib.com

Published: December 1, 2008

TAMPA - Holiday gifts come in all shapes and sizes. Some are even alive.

But Florida has specific requirements for purchasing animals that retailers must follow, and many consumers may not be aware of them.

Called the Pet Law, it requires anyone selling young dogs or cats to make sure the animals are at least 8 weeks old prior to sale and that they have a health certificate signed by a licensed veterinarian, as well as that the seller must offer a refund or replacement if the pet becomes sick or dies shortly after purchase.

The law does not cover exotic pets such as reptiles.

"An awful lot of people give pets at Christmastime," said Terrence McElroy, a spokesman for state Agriculture and Consumer Services Commissioner Charles Bronson. "We want to make sure it's a good experience for consumers, and that pet stores are cognizant of their responsibilities."

Beginning today, Bronson's office will dispatch about 30 inspectors to visit pet stores and animal retailers statewide to make sure the law is followed. Inspections will continue through Jan. 1.

Bronson's office also handles complaints and can mediate a refund. The office gets about 50 complaints a year, McElroy said, and since 2005, state residents have received about $71,000 in restitution. The office also investigates egregious violations such as forged health certificates and fraudulent pedigree paperwork. Since 2002, about five stores statewide have been shut down.

Most retailers follow the law, McElroy said.

Creature Castle, a Brandon-based pet retailer, offers kittens for adoption and sells dogs. The kittens receive all vaccinations prior to adoption, which is free with a $35 purchase of pet supplies.

Dogs, which average between $600 and $900, are microchipped and come with a health certificate, free vet visit, two-week contagious disease guarantee, one-year congenital disease guarantee, and pedigree papers.

Employees also provide buyers with a copy of the state law.

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