Veterinary Reproduction Rehabilitation Animal Care Wellness Clinic

Do you know there are specific laws pertaining to the sale of puppies in the state of Florida? 

Every puppy sold in Florida MUST be accompanied by a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection. 

This form proves that your new puppy has been examined by a veterinarian AND to the best of the veterinarians knowledge  is in good health. 

Vaccinations can be given by a breeder but are likely NOT recognized by a veterinarian. The vaccines on the Certificate of Veterinary Inspection MUST be given by the veterinarian or under their specific direction. The reason veterinarians do NOT recognize vaccinations by a breeder is that storage, transportation and administration of such vaccinations cannot be verified. These vaccines are often purchased through online breeder sites, pharmacies or local feed stores…NOT direct from manufacturer. Learn about why vaccinations fail here: https://acuvetdoc.com/f/vaccinations-can-fail-us 

 Gastrointestinal parasite ( fecal testing) is required to be NEGATIVE in order for the puppy to be deemed healthy and for the veterinarian to  sign the certificate.  The importance of this testing is not only for the health of the puppy but many of these parasites are CONTAGIOUS TO HUMANS! Learn the differences in fecal testing here: https://acuvetdoc.com/f/i-poop-you-not

If the puppy is over 6 months of age; a NEGATIVE heartworm test is required. Heartworm is transmitted through a mosquito bite… we have mosquitos all year around. Mosquitos do not only live outside, but we find them indoors as well. Learn about heartworm disease here: https://www.heartwormsociety.org/pet-owner-resources

Puppies cannot legally be sold prior to 8 weeks of age. 

All dogs and cats offered for sale and copies of certificates held by the seller and veterinarian are subject to inspection by any agent of the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, any agent of the United States Department of Agriculture, any law enforcement officer, or any agent appointed.

If the puppy has been deemed ‘unfit for sale’ the buyer of the puppy has very specific rights under Florida Statute; please read more by clicking the link below. 

If you have any further question or would like to review the specific Florida Statute: http://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=0800-0899/0828/Sections/0828.29.html

If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to reach out to me directly via text at 561-250-2031.

All the Best,

Karina Salvo DVM, CVFT, CTPEP, CVMMP, CVTP, Elite Fear Free Certified