Covered Genetic Conditions
The Breeder provides a one (1) year genetic health guarantee covering testable, inherited, life-threatening genetic conditions that are present at birth or develop during gestation and that significantly compromise the puppy’s ability to live a normal life.
Covered conditions include severe, life-threatening genetic defects confirmed by appropriate diagnostic testing and, where applicable, evaluation by a licensed veterinary specialist. Structural heart defects diagnosed by a licensed veterinary cardiologist may be considered covered conditions.
This guarantee applies only to the original Purchaser, is non-transferable, and applies solely to genetic conditions diagnosed by a licensed veterinarian.
Heart Murmurs
The Purchaser acknowledges that innocent, functional, or mild heart murmurs are relatively common in puppies and are often temporary and non-pathological, resolving as the puppy matures. Mild or innocent heart murmurs that do not require surgical intervention and are determined to be non-hereditary or non-life-threatening are expressly excluded from this health guarantee.
Conditions Not Covered
This genetic health guarantee does not cover, and the Breeder assumes no responsibility for, the following conditions or circumstances:
• Hernias
• Cancer
• Anxiety or behavioral conditions
• Stress or stress-related illness
• Age-related conditions
• Viral, bacterial, or fungal infections
• Endocrine disorders
• Allergies
• Parasites
• Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)*
• Grade 1 or Grade 2 patellar luxation
• Cosmetic or structural conditions, including underbite or overbite
This guarantee further excludes any condition resulting from or contributed to by neglect, injury, trauma, improper feeding, skipped meals, failure to follow Breeder feeding instructions, exposure to contagious environments, failure to maintain routine veterinary care, or failure to obtain a veterinary examination within the required timeframe.
Any condition falling under these exclusions may void this health guarantee.
Parasites
Parasites, including but not limited to Coccidia, Giardia, tapeworms, and external parasites, are a normal part of puppy ownership and are not covered under this guarantee.
All puppies are maintained on a preventative deworming protocol while in the Breeder’s care. Parasites may remain dormant and may surface during times of stress, including transition to a new home. The Purchaser assumes full responsibility for parasite testing and treatment after physical transfer of the puppy.
Underbite / Overbite
All breeding dogs are genetically tested and evaluated for proper structure and scissor bite. In rare cases, a puppy may develop an underbite or overbite.
If a bite misalignment is identified prior to placement, the Purchaser will be notified. The puppy will be ineligible for breeding rights. The Purchaser may select an alternate puppy if available. If the Purchaser elects to proceed with a puppy with a bite misalignment, the puppy is accepted as-is. Underbite and overbite are considered cosmetic conditions, and the Breeder is not responsible for treatment.
Illness or Disease During Guarantee Period
If the puppy is diagnosed with a suspected genetic illness during the guarantee period, the Purchaser must notify the Breeder within twenty-four (24) hours of diagnosis and provide written documentation from a licensed veterinarian, including diagnostic findings. The Breeder reserves the right to request a second veterinary opinion or additional testing.
Failure to comply with these requirements may void the health guarantee.
Sole Remedy
Upon confirmation of a covered genetic condition, the Breeder’s obligation constitutes the sole and exclusive remedy available to the Purchaser. At the Breeder’s discretion, the Purchaser will be offered either:
• A replacement puppy of equal value from a future litter, or
• A breeder credit toward a future puppy
No cash refunds will be issued. All veterinary expenses, diagnostic testing, and ongoing care are the sole responsibility of the Purchaser.
*Hypoglycemia & Feeding Acknowledgment (Small and Micro Puppies)
Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) is not a genetic condition and is not covered under this genetic health guarantee. The following information is provided to educate the Purchaser regarding risk and required care.
The Purchaser acknowledges that small, toy, and micro puppies are at increased risk of hypoglycemia due to limited fat reserves and immature glucose regulation. Hypoglycemia is a medical emergency and may result in seizures, collapse, neurological damage, or death if not properly managed.
Puppies under approximately three (3) pounds must be fed no fewer than three (3) measured meals per day. Puppies approximately three (3) pounds and above may be fed two (2) meals per day, unless otherwise directed by the Breeder or a licensed veterinarian. Meals must not be skipped, and food intake must be monitored.
Any illness, injury, or death resulting from hypoglycemia, missed or delayed meals, improper feeding, or failure to monitor intake is not covered under this genetic health guarantee and may void the guarantee in its entirety.