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Content Overview

Adopting a Decker Terrier puppy is an exciting journey, filled with lots of anticipation and preparation. Integral to this process is understanding and agreeing to a Health Guarantee Form, a critical document ensuring the well-being and health of your new furry friend. Prepared by Kimberly Seegmiller, the breeder/seller, this agreement outlines the sale of a Decker Terrier puppy, detailing the breed, sex, birth date, color, pattern, and registration information, along with the financial aspects of the transaction, including the total cost and any additional fees for shipping and delivery. This contract goes beyond just the sale, emphasizing the health and genetic soundness of the puppy at the time of purchase and detailing specific steps the buyer must take, such as vet examinations within a defined timeframe, to maintain the Health Guarantee. The document meticulously outlines scenarios in which a puppy can be returned for a replacement due to life-threatening defects or severe genetic conditions, clearly stating the responsibilities of both the buyer and the breeder in ensuring the health and well-being of the puppy. It underlines the breeder's commitment to the lifetime health of the animal, excluding certain conditions post-adoption, and asserting the ongoing support the breeder promises to provide. Furthermore, the agreement sets the legal groundwork for any potential disputes, making it an essential document for both parties involved in the transaction. By signing this contract, buyers and breeders agree to a set of terms and conditions that prioritize the puppy's health, a testament to the care and responsibility encouraged by Seegmiller Kennel.

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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: ___________________________

Form Specifications

Fact Name Description
Contract Parties The agreement is between Kimberly Seegmiller, the breeder/seller, and the buyer.
Canine Information Information regarding the breed, sex, date of birth, color, and registration of the canine is specified.
Financial Terms Includes total cost, shipping/delivery costs, non-refundable deposit, and balance due prior to receipt of the canine.
Health Guarantee Timing The buyer must have the canine examined by a vet within 72 business hours of delivery to validate the health guarantee.
Genetic Defect Clause Specifies action if a severe genetic defect is discovered within 6 months of age, including the requirement of veterinary documentation and the possibility of returning the canine.
Veterinary Costs Buyer is responsible for all veterinary costs, including those arising from diagnosing a genetic defect or other health issue.
No Cash Refunds Policy The breeder offers no cash refunds, but may offer a replacement canine under certain conditions.
Exclusions from Guarantee Lists conditions and situations not covered by the health guarantee, such as stress-induced illnesses and parasites.
Governing Law Any disputes must be resolved in the state of Missouri, Schuyler County, with the buyer responsible for legal fees.

Health Guarantee: Usage Guidelines

Filling out the Health Guarantee form is a crucial step in finalizing the purchase and sale agreement of a Decker Terrier puppy. This process ensures both buyer and seller agree on the health, condition, and terms related to the puppy's sale. It's a legal document that outlines the responsibilities of both parties and the steps to follow should health issues arise with the puppy. Below are the detailed instructions to complete this form accurately.

  1. Begin by entering the breed of the puppy in the first blank space provided.
  2. Specify the sex of the puppy by entering it in the designated space.
  3. Fill in the date of birth of the puppy.
  4. Enter the color and pattern of the puppy's coat in the respective fields.
  5. If applicable, insert the registration number of the puppy and specify the type of registration.
  6. For the puppy's lineage, enter the registration numbers for the sire (father) and dam (mother), if applicable.
  7. Indicate the total cost of the canine, excluding any shipping or delivery costs.
  8. If needed, specify the shipping/delivery costs, including details such as air-fare, crate, and veterinarian health certificate costs.
  9. State the non-refundable deposit amount and the date it was paid.
  10. Fill in the remaining balance due for the puppy and the date by which it needs to be paid in full.
  11. As the buyer, agree to the terms listed by signing at the bottom where indicated. This includes acknowledging the health guarantees and obligations related to the puppy’s care.
  12. Enter your printed name, address, city, state, zip code, phone number, and email address in the designated areas.
  13. Finally, indicate the date of the agreement and the date of pickup for the puppy.

Upon completing this form, review all entered information for accuracy before signing. This agreement, once signed by both buyer and breeder, becomes the legal guide for the transaction. It’s important to keep a copy of this agreement for your records, as it contains critical information about your rights and obligations regarding the health and well-being of your new puppy.

Your Questions, Answered

What does the Health Guarantee cover for my new puppy?

The Health Guarantee covers any life-threatening defects found within 72 hours of the puppy being delivered or picked up. It also covers severe life-altering genetic defects diagnosed by a licensed veterinarian by the age of 6 months. If such conditions are confirmed, the contract provides the option for the buyer to return the puppy for a replacement of equal or lesser value as soon as one becomes available. However, it does not cover vet costs or any illnesses and injuries that occur after leaving the breeder's care, such as stress-induced conditions or diseases contracted post-pickup.

What should I do if my puppy appears ill within the first 72 hours after pickup?

If your puppy appears to be in poor health within the first 72 hours after pickup, it is crucial to have them examined by your chosen veterinarian immediately. Failing to do so within the given timeframe voids the Health Guarantee. If a life-threatening defect is found, you must notify the breeder within two (2) business days of the diagnosis, providing written evidence from the vet. Before any treatment or surgery is done, the breeder must be contacted for a chance to seek a second opinion.

Can I get a refund for vet costs if my puppy has a health issue?

No, the Health Guarantee does not offer refunds for any veterinary costs. The buyer is solely responsible for all expenses related to the health and treatment of the puppy, including the costs of a necropsy if the puppy dies and the cause of death needs to be determined.

What if I decide to keep the puppy despite a health issue?

If you choose to keep the puppy even after a health issue is detected, and you do not arrange for the puppy to be returned to the breeder within two weeks of notifying the defect, the Health Guarantee will no longer obligate the breeder to provide a replacement puppy at any future date. This decision finalizes the sale, with no further claims applicable under the Health Guarantee.

What is not covered by the Health Guarantee?

The Health Guarantee does not cover any injuries or illnesses that might be caused by hypoglycemia, pneumonia, canine influenza, parasites (internal or external), ringworm, giardia, coccidiosis, hepatitis, and other diseases or viruses after leaving the breeder's care. It also excludes any conditions brought on by stress or environmental changes and does not guarantee against diseases contracted after the puppy leaves the breeder's premises. Furthermore, the guarantee does not cover the puppy's ability to breed or show, adult size, weight, coat, temperament, or trainability.

What are my responsibilities as a puppy buyer?

As a puppy buyer, your responsibilities include providing a suitable and safe environment for the puppy, ensuring the puppy's health through annual vet exams, vaccinations, heartworm prevention, and needed procedures. You also agree to follow a proper diet, exercise, and care schedule as recommended by your vet. Changing the puppy’s diet within the first week after pickup is strongly discouraged to avoid stress. Additionally, you acknowledge that any changes or growth in the puppy, influenced by its care, diet, or lifestyle, are your responsibility. Should you no longer wish or be able to care for the puppy, the breeder requests the right of first refusal to help rehome the animal.

Common mistakes

  1. Not thoroughly reviewing personal details: It's crucial to ensure all personal details filled in on the form are accurate. This includes names, addresses, and especially contact information. Mistakes here can lead to serious communication issues down the line.

  2. Skipping the examination window: The contract specifies a 72-hour window for the canine to be examined by a veterinarian. Overlooking this step not only voids the health guarantee but could also mean missing early detection of potential health issues.

  3. Delaying veterinary notification: The agreement requires the buyer to notify the breeder within two business days if a severe genetic defect is found. Waiting beyond this timeframe to convey findings can result in the voiding of the health guarantee.

  4. Omitting signature and date: Forgetting to sign and date the agreement can invalidate the entire contract. The buyer's and breeder's signatures, alongside the dates, are essential to confirm the contract's acceptance and its activation date.

  5. Ignoring the feeding instructions: Changing the puppy's diet within the first week can stress the animal and potentially lead to health issues not covered by the guarantee. Compliance with the recommended feeding guideline is important.

  6. Overlooking the importance of initial and ongoing care: The contract emphasizes the need for immediate veterinary examination and continuous care, including vaccinations and maintaining a healthy environment. Neglecting these responsibilities not only risks the puppy's well-being but also affects the guarantee's validity.

Documents used along the form

When adopting or purchasing a new puppy, completing the Health Guarantee form is a vital step in ensuring the health and well-being of the pet. However, this is just one component of a comprehensive set of documents that responsible breeders and new pet owners should consider. These documents not only protect the welfare of the puppy but also specify the responsibilities and expectations of both the buyer and the breeder. The following list comprises several key forms and documents that are often used alongside the Health Guarantee form.

  • Purchase Agreement: Provides detailed information about the terms of sale, including the purchase price, payment schedule, and any conditions or warranties. This document is crucial for clarifying the financial and legal aspects of the puppy’s purchase.
  • Veterinary Health Certificate: Confirms that the puppy has undergone a thorough health examination by a licensed veterinarian. It ensures that the puppy is free from contagious diseases at the time of sale and is fit to travel if necessary.
  • Immunization Record: Contains a record of all vaccinations the puppy has received, including dates and types of vaccines. This document is essential for maintaining the puppy's health and is often required for obedience classes, dog parks, and boarding.
  • Microchip Registration Form: Provides the details needed to register the puppy’s microchip in the new owner's name. Microchipping is a tool used for the identification of lost pets and can be crucial in reuniting pets with their owners.
  • Spay/Neuter Agreement: Used by breeders who require puppies to be spayed or neutered by a certain age. This document outlines the obligations of the new owner to have the procedure done, supporting efforts to prevent unplanned breeding.
  • Return Policy: Details the conditions under which the buyer can return the puppy to the breeder and the responsibilities of each party in such an event. This document is important for ensuring the well-being of the puppy should the new ownership arrangement fail.
  • Training and Care Information: While not a formal legal document, providing new owners with guidelines for the care, feeding, and basic training of their new puppy is a practice followed by many responsible breeders. This information can help new owners get started on the right foot with their new pet.

Together with the Health Guarantee form, these documents form a framework that helps ensure a transparent, accountable, and positive process of bringing a new furry family member home. They protect the interests of all parties involved and, most importantly, contribute to the health, safety, and happiness of the puppy. It is advisable for both buyers and breeders to discuss and understand these documents fully to ensure a smooth and joyful transition for the puppy into its new home.

Similar forms

  • Warranty Deed: Like the Health Guarantee form, a Warranty Deed is a document that provides assurances from the seller to the buyer. In real estate, a Warranty Deed guarantees that the property is free from any undisclosed liens or encumbrances, similar to how the Health Guarantee assures the buyer of the puppy's health and genetic condition at the time of sale. Both documents aim to protect the buyer and establish trust in the transaction.

  • Bill of Sale: This document is akin to the Health Guarantee form in that it serves as a record of the transaction between two parties. A Bill of Sale outlines the details of the sale item, the sale amount, and the conditions of the sale, much like the puppy contract specifies the breed, cost, and health guarantee conditions of the canine being sold. Both documents are critical for documenting the exchange and protecting both parties’ interests.

  • Lemon Law Protection: The Health Guarantee form shares similarities with Lemon Law protections often associated with automobile sales. Lemon Laws protect the buyer from defects that significantly impair the use, value, or safety of a new vehicle, similar to how the Health Guarantee form allows for a replacement puppy in the case of severe genetic health issues. Both offer remedies to consumers for products that fail to meet standards of quality and performance.

  • Return Policy: Many retail businesses have a return policy in place, which is comparable to the Health Guarantee form's stipulation for returning a puppy with health deficiencies. Both policies specify a timeframe within which the item can be returned due to defects or unsatisfactory conditions, outlining the expectations for a return or exchange. These policies are designed to offer the purchaser a form of protection and recourse should the product not meet agreed-upon conditions.

  • Manufacturer’s Warranty: Like the Health Guarantee form, a Manufacturer’s Warranty ensures the product's performance up to a certain standard. This warranty, often found with electronic goods and appliances, protects the consumer against manufacturing defects. Both types of warranties provide assurances directly from the seller and stipulate conditions under which reparations or replacements may be deemed necessary, emphasizing the seller's accountability for the product's condition at the point of sale.

Dos and Don'ts

Tips for Completing the Health Guarantee Form for a Decker Terrier Puppy

Filling out a Health Guarantee form is a critical step in the process of acquiring a new puppy, ensuring that both the buyer and breeder have a clear understanding of their responsibilities regarding the puppy's health. Below are some dos and don'ts to consider when completing this important document.

Do:

  • Read the entire contract thoroughly before signing it to ensure you understand the terms and conditions of the health guarantee.
  • Ensure that all fields are filled out accurately, including the breed, sex, date of birth, and color of the puppy, as well as the registration numbers if applicable.
  • Have the puppy examined by a licensed veterinarian within 72 business hours of delivery or pickup as required by the agreement. This verifies the puppy's health status upon receipt.
  • Notify the breeder in writing within two business days if a licensed veterinarian finds a fatal or severe life-altering genetic defect within the puppy by the age of six months.
  • Be prepared to provide proper care for the puppy, including annual examinations, vaccinations, heartworm prevention, and any other necessary health procedures.
  • Initial each page of the contract to indicate your agreement with the terms detailed on each page.

Don't:

  • Don't delay the required veterinary examination beyond the stipulated 72-hour timeframe. Failing to do so will void the health guarantee.
  • Do not change the puppy's diet within the first week of pickup to avoid unnecessary stress, adhering to the breeder's advice.
  • Avoid initiating any treatment or surgery on the puppy before consulting the breeder, especially in the case of diagnosing a genetic defect.
  • Don't overlook the breeder's right to offer a replacement puppy in lieu of a refund. Understand that no cash refunds will be given, as indicated in the contract.
  • Do not ignore the requirement to return the puppy to the breeder if a severe defect is discovered and you opt for a replacement, ensuring compliance with the specified notification and return timelines.
  • Lastly, don't underestimate the breeder's advice and support. The contract highlights the breeder's commitment to being a lifelong resource for the puppy's welfare.

Completing the Health Guarantee form carefully and conscientiously is essential for protecting the interests of both the buyer and the breeder. By following these dos and don'ts, you can help ensure a smooth and successful experience as you welcome your new Decker Terrier puppy into your home.

Misconceptions

When it comes to buying a puppy, the paperwork involved, including a Health Guarantee form, can sometimes feel overwhelming. Potential puppy owners often have misconceptions about what health guarantees cover and how they protect both the buyer and the puppy. Here, we clarify the top seven misconceptions about the Health Guarantee form to help future pet owners understand its value and limitations.

  • One-size-fits-all: Many believe that all health guarantees are identical, no matter the breeder. However, these documents vary significantly depending on the specific terms set by each breeder. The coverage, duration, and conditions can differ greatly.
  • Covers all health issues: A common misconception is that a health guarantee covers any health issue that arises with the puppy. In reality, these guarantees typically cover only specific genetic conditions or severe health problems identified within a certain timeframe after purchase.
  • Immediate refunds: Some buyers think that if a health issue is discovered, a refund is immediate. Most health guarantees, instead, offer a replacement puppy or apply the original purchase price towards another puppy from the breeder, with no cash refunds provided.
  • No vet costs covered: Buyers often assume that the guarantee will cover all vet costs if a genetic defect is discovered. However, buyers are usually responsible for all veterinary expenses, even those associated with diagnosing a covered condition.
  • Immediate replacements: There's a belief that if a puppy must be returned due to health issues, a replacement or refund is instant. In practice, replacements are subject to availability, and it may take time for a suitable puppy to be available.
  • Guarantee for any reason: People sometimes think they can return a puppy for any reason under the health guarantee. Actually, returns are typically only accepted for specific health issues outlined in the agreement.
  • Guarantees training and behavior: A significant misunderstanding is that health guarantees also ensure a puppy’s trainability and behavior. These forms, however, are focused solely on health and do not cover the future temperament or training success of the puppy.

Understanding these key aspects of a Health Guarantee form is crucial for potential pet owners. It helps set realistic expectations and ensures buyers are fully informed about their responsibilities and the breeder’s obligations. Always read and understand the specifics of any health guarantee before agreeing to purchase a puppy.

Key takeaways

Filling out and using the Health Guarantee form is an important process that ensures the health and well-being of a puppy you may be purchasing. Here are some key takeaways to remember:

  1. Examination by a Veterinarian: The buyer must have the canine examined by a veterinarian of their choice within 72 business hours from the time of delivery or pickup. Failing to do so will void the contract and its guarantees.
  2. Notification of Defects: If the puppy is found to have a life-threatening defect within those 72 hours, the buyer may return the puppy for a replacement, subject to terms outlined in the contract.
  3. Genetic Defects: For severe life-altering genetic defects diagnosed by the age of 6 months, the breeder must be notified within two business days of diagnosis for the contract's terms to apply.
  4. Buyer's Responsibilities: All veterinarian costs associated with the puppy, including in the event of discovering defects, are the responsibility of the buyer.
  5. Return Policy: The puppy must be returned to the seller within a specific timeframe after the notification of a defect, with the seller having the final say on the diagnosis.
  6. No Cash Refunds: The contract specifies that there will be no cash refunds. Instead, the purchase price may be applied toward another canine of equal or lesser value when available if the buyer qualifies for a replacement.
  7. Health Maintenance: The buyer agrees to maintain the canine's health through regular exams, vaccinations, and other necessary procedures.
  8. Limitation of Guarantees: The guarantee does not cover injuries, illness from stress-induced conditions, parasites, or diseases contracted after leaving the breeder’s premises.
  9. Whole Agreement: This document represents the entire agreement between the breeder and buyer. Any disagreements must be resolved in the state of Missouri, with all legal fees borne by the buyer.

Understanding and adhering to these terms ensures a clear agreement between the buyer and seller regarding the health and well-being of the puppy. It's crucial to read and understand each part of the contract before signing to ensure you're prepared for the responsibilities it entails.