Health Guarantee

One-Year Genetic Health Guarantee

We provide a one-year health guarantee from the date of birth covering life-threatening genetic and hereditary defects. This guarantee applies to conditions that are:

• Genetically inherited or hereditary in nature
• Life-threatening or significantly impact the puppy's quality of life
• Diagnosed by a licensed veterinarian with appropriate documentation
• Not caused by accident, injury, neglect, abuse, or improper care

Conditions Covered

The guarantee covers life-threatening genetic and hereditary conditions, including but not limited to:

• Hip dysplasia (severe, requiring surgical intervention)
• Elbow dysplasia (severe, requiring surgical intervention)
• Congenital heart defects (life-threatening)
• Severe eye conditions (congenital cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy, etc.)
• Liver shunts (congenital portosystemic shunts)
• Kidney disease (congenital, life-threatening)
• Severe neurological disorders (congenital)
• Blood clotting disorders (hereditary)
• Other life-threatening genetic conditions as diagnosed by a licensed veterinarian

Note: This list is not exhaustive. Any life-threatening genetic or hereditary condition diagnosed within the guarantee period will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

Initial Health Examination Period

All puppies must be examined by a licensed veterinarian within 14 days (2 weeks) of pickup. This examination is required to:

• Establish a baseline health record with your veterinarian
• Identify any health concerns that may have been present at the time of sale
• Ensure the puppy is in good health at the time of transfer
• Maintain the validity of the health guarantee

Important: Failure to have your puppy examined by a veterinarian within 14 days of pickup may void the health guarantee. You must provide us with a copy of the veterinary examination report upon request.

Accidents and Injuries

• Accidental injuries of any kind
• Injuries resulting from falls, collisions, or trauma
• Injuries from fights with other animals
• Injuries from vehicle accidents
• Any injury caused by human error or negligence

Neglect, Abuse, or Improper Care

• Health issues resulting from neglect or abuse
• Failure to provide proper veterinary care
• Failure to follow recommended vaccination schedules
• Improper nutrition or feeding practices
• Lack of exercise or over-exercise
• Exposure to toxins, poisons, or harmful substances
• Failure to provide adequate shelter or protection from weather

Non-Genetic Conditions

• Parasites (fleas, ticks, worms) - though puppies are dewormed before going home
• Bacterial or viral infections acquired after pickup
• Allergies (environmental, food, or seasonal)
• Skin conditions not of genetic origin
• Ear infections
• Dental issues (unless congenital)
• Obesity or weight-related issues
• Behavioral issues

Normal Variations and Minor Issues

• Size variations (puppies may be larger or smaller than expected)
• Color variations (coat color may change as puppy matures)
• Coat texture variations
• Minor cosmetic issues
• Umbilical hernias (unless life-threatening)
• Undescended testicles (unless causing health issues)
• Retained baby teeth (unless causing problems)

Breeding and Spay/Neuter Violations

• Any health issues that arise if the puppy is bred without written authorization
• Health issues related to pregnancy or breeding
• Any issues if the puppy is not spayed/neutered by 12 months of age (unless otherwise agreed in writing)

Discounted Puppies

Important: Any puppies sold at a discounted price do NOT come with a health guarantee. Discounted puppies are sold "as-is" with no warranty or guarantee of any kind.

Veterinary Care Requirements

• Initial Examination: Have your puppy examined by a licensed veterinarian within 14 days (2 weeks) of pickup
• Provide Documentation: Submit a copy of the veterinary examination report to us upon request
• Regular Check-ups: Maintain regular veterinary care throughout the puppy's life
• Follow Recommendations: Follow all veterinary recommendations for vaccinations, deworming, and health care
• Immediate Notification: Notify us immediately (within 48 hours) if any health concerns arise, with veterinary documentation

Proper Care and Maintenance

• Provide proper nutrition with high-quality dog food appropriate for the puppy's age and breed
• Ensure adequate exercise appropriate for the puppy's age and development
• Provide a safe, clean, and loving home environment
• Protect the puppy from hazards, toxins, and dangerous situations
• Maintain proper grooming and hygiene
• Provide adequate shelter and protection from weather extremes
• Socialize the puppy appropriately

Spay/Neuter Agreement

• All puppies are sold as pet quality only with a spay/neuter agreement
• Puppy must be spayed or neutered by 12 months of age, unless otherwise agreed upon in writing
• Breeding rights are NOT included with pet-quality puppies
• If breeding rights are desired, they must be discussed and agreed upon in writing before purchase, and additional fees may apply
• Failure to spay/neuter by the agreed-upon date may void the health guarantee

Reporting Requirements

• Report any health concerns to us immediately (within 48 hours of diagnosis)
• Provide complete veterinary records and documentation
• Allow us to consult with your veterinarian if necessary
• Cooperate with any reasonable requests for information or examination

Our Commitment

We are committed to working with you to find a fair and reasonable resolution. Options may include (at our sole discretion):

• Replacement Puppy: We may offer a replacement puppy from a future litter
• Veterinary Expense Coverage: We may cover reasonable veterinary expenses related to the diagnosis and treatment of the covered condition, up to the amount of the purchase price minus office-related fees, depending on the circumstances

Important: The specific resolution will be determined on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the nature of the condition, the puppy's age, the severity of the issue, and all relevant circumstances. We reserve the right to choose the most appropriate resolution method.

Required Documentation

To process a guarantee claim, we require:

• Written diagnosis from a licensed veterinarian
• Complete veterinary records from the initial examination (within 14 days of pickup)
• All relevant test results, X-rays, or diagnostic reports
• Documentation showing the condition is genetic or hereditary in nature
• Proof that the condition is life-threatening or significantly impacts quality of life
• Evidence that proper care has been provided (vaccination records, regular check-ups, etc.)

Second Opinion

We reserve the right to request a second opinion from a veterinarian of our choice at our expense. If the second opinion conflicts with the initial diagnosis, we may require additional evaluation or testing before determining the appropriate resolution.

Limitations on Guarantee Claims

• All guarantee claims must be made within the one-year guarantee period
• Claims must be supported by appropriate veterinary documentation
• We are not responsible for veterinary expenses incurred without our prior authorization
• Our liability is limited to the original purchase price of the puppy minus office-related fees
• Veterinary expense coverage is limited to reasonable expenses directly related to the diagnosis and treatment of the covered condition
• We are not responsible for additional expenses such as transportation, boarding, training, office visit fees, or other costs
• If a replacement puppy is offered, it will be from a future litter and subject to availability

Breeding Dog Health Testing

Our breeding dogs undergo comprehensive health testing, including:

• Genetic disease screening
• Hip and elbow evaluations (OFA or PennHIP)
• Eye examinations (CERF/OFA)
• Cardiac evaluations
• Regular veterinary check-ups
• Breed-specific health tests as recommended

Puppy Health Care

• All puppies receive age-appropriate vaccinations before going home
• Puppies are dewormed on a regular schedule
• Puppies receive a complete veterinary examination before pickup
• Puppies are raised in a clean, healthy environment
• Puppies are socialized from an early age

What You Receive at Pickup

• Health certificate from licensed veterinarian
• Complete vaccination and deworming records
• Microchip information (if applicable)
• Pedigree documentation (if applicable)
• Registration papers (if applicable)
• Puppy care package and information
• Lifetime breeder support

No Guarantees on Size, Color, or Appearance

While we provide estimates based on parent size and breed standards, we cannot guarantee the adult size, weight, color, coat texture, or exact appearance of any puppy. These characteristics can vary and are influenced by genetics, nutrition, and other factors beyond our control.

No Guarantees on Temperament or Behavior

While we work hard to socialize our puppies and breed for good temperaments, we cannot guarantee specific personality traits, behavior, or temperament. These are influenced by genetics, environment, training, and individual personality. Proper socialization, training, and care are essential for developing a well-adjusted adult dog.

No Guarantees on Breeding Ability

All puppies are sold as pet quality only. We make no guarantees regarding breeding ability, fertility, or reproductive health. Breeding rights are not included unless specifically agreed upon in writing before purchase.

Questions About Our Health Guarantee?

If you have questions about our health guarantee, need to report a health concern, or would like to discuss our breeding practices, please don't hesitate to contact us. We're here to help and ensure both you and your new furry family member thrive together.

Phone: (413) 287-8708

Email: puppies@topnotchpaws.com