by Donna Thacker

Created on: September 03, 2010

If you are interested in buying a pet from a breeder there are a few things you need to know. A reputable breeder will have a contract for you to sign. If the person you are dealing with does not offer you a contract to read over, I would suggest searching for another breeder!

Why Breeders Need Contracts

A reputable breeder will spell everything out for you in a contract. The contract should have clauses in it that protect both of you. Breeders use the contract as a means of securing the animals purchase even before they are ready to leave their littermates.

Many breeders post pictures of the latest litter that is available for adoption. If someone sees an adorable puppy or kitten that they just have to have the breeder will ask them to sign a contract, and put down a deposit to hold the pet.

This contract guarantees that you plan to finish paying and adopt this pet when it gets old enough. The breeder is assured of a sale and you are assured of getting the pet of your choice when it is old enough.

Things to Look for in a Breeders Contract

Do not just sign the breeder’s contract because you are excited to get this particular puppy or kitten. There are several key things that should be listed in the contract:

1. Breeder Price Guarantee: The overall price you are paying for the pet should be stated as well as the amount of the down payment the breeder requires. If you have negotiated a different price, make sure the breeder writes that in and initials it.

2. A Pet Wellness Statement: The breeder should state that the puppy or kitten has been seen by a veterinarian and that the pet is healthy. It should state that the purchaser has up to 72 hours (this can vary) to have the pet evaluated by their own veterinarian after they take possession. In essence, this states that the pet was healthy the day you picked him up, and that your own vet verified this within a certain amount of time.

3. A Return Clause: The return clause should state very clearly under what conditions the breeder will take the pet back and reimburse your money. Some may have a very limited return clause, or will state the reasons for return, such as if the pet became ill within a few hours, or if your own vet found issues that you were not aware of.

4. Breeder’s Rights Clause: A breeder may retain breeding rights to a dog or kitten, if they are of an exceptional bloodline. This means that you cannot breed this animal for profit, nor will you be able to register any of the litters. The breeder may offer to sell you the breeding rights. Be sure you know what breeding and registration limits you receive are before you sign the contract.

The breeder may list a “return to breeder” feature in their contract. This means you may not sell or give away this pet without contacting the breeder first. Some breeders require that the pet be returned to them if you are no longer able to care for it.

These are just a few things you should know about a breeder’s contract. A reputable breeder will have a very detailed contract and will list all of the terms you are agreeing to. The will also explain the contract, or make note adjustments that you will both have to initial.

If the contract looks to short, or if terms are not explained properly, make sure you get it in writing before you make any kind of deposit and or take possession of the pet. If the contract is not to your liking, ask the breeder to adjust it, or type up a new one.

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