Small claims court - worth it?

[jrdavid68]

Short story.

Wife bought a puppy - $800

Puppy died within three weeks.

Vet bills for that three weeks approx $1000 (could be more, haven't put it all together yet). Probably another grand + on puppy crap the wife bought.

Breeder mostly non-responsive to voice mail and email. When I was able to contact them, they pretty much blame us. We have a letter from our Vet stating multiple problems with the puppy from day one.

I think we have a case, but is it really worth it? It's not so much the money as it is knowing this breeder will just go on doing what they are doing.

Anybody been through something like this before?

[RickM]

Most reputable breeders give a guarantee of sorts with the pup. Coverage time frame can vary from a few weeks to 18 or more months. But it's totally at their discretion. Did you get a receipt or other paperwork? If not was a guarantee communicated to you either verbally or on their website.
Small claims court would be the avenue of choice if they are not living up to their end of the deal. Or if they purposely misrepresented the pup's health. A call to the breeders vet may help as well.

[FrayAdjacent911]

I'd offer 'em a deal... they give you another puppy of similar breed, with a clean bill of health, or take 'em to court. You're out almost two grand. That's considerable. That's almost fraud.

[turbo6bar]

Small claims court is ideal for resolving issues like this. Documentation is your friend. You don't have much to lose (already lost the pup), and you have a good bit to gain.