Sterling Heights, MI asked in Consumer Law and Animal / Dog Law for Michigan

Q: Dog breeder sold us an akc certified dog with a terminal genetic defect can we take to small claims?

Puppy is only 3 months old, verified by two veterinarians it’s genetic (renal dysplasia) life expectancy is 1 year. The dog breeder is denying it saying it isn’t possible

1 Lawyer Answer

A: From a practical standpoint, you might try working it out with the breeder. From a legal standpoint you can likley sue in small claims and at least be heard, that is the purpose of small claims, the result of the hearing may or may not be better.

It might be helpful to know.Pets have long been considered personal property in Michigan jurisprudence. See Ten Hopen v. Walker, 96 Mich. 236, 239, 55 N.W. 657 (1893).

1 user found this answer helpful

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