I was referred to Wizard of Claws from a friend who had purchased from them. I had wanted a Boston Terrier for a long time, but was always afraid to purchase one from a "pet store" because of the horror stories I had heard about the origins of the puppies. When I looked at the WOC website, who claimed to deal with a small group of breeders, I felt a bit more confident and decided to start shopping. There were several puppies available at the time ranging from $750 to $1500 plus. I went to the store to see them in person.
When I asked to see the $750 puppy I was told he couldn't be shown because he was sick. This should have been my first clue that things weren't quite right. They happily brought me two others in the higher price ranges, and I finally decided on one that was $1500. I was told this puppy had just arrived at the shop that day. Luckily I suppose, the puppy wasn't there long enough to get kennel cough and other than a little diarreah, she appeared in perfect health. This was my first puppy and I was so excited to take her home, and even considered the first two nights of non-stop barking and crying normal for a new baby in a new home.
I took her to Dr. Bellows as instructed by WOC to have her checked out for parasites, genetic defects, etc. She was all good according to Dr. Bellows. I had no experience with any other vet, so I continued through our series of "puppy visits" and vaccinations in spite of the 45 minute commute to their Weston offices. As the puppy got older and her adult teeth started coming in, Dr. Bellows pointed out that her baby teeth were not falling out and the her adult teeth were growing in on top of/behind them. I asked if this was normal and was told "not really." I inquired as to whether this would be considered a "genetic defect" under the stipulations of WOC's warranty. The answer to that was no. Dr. Bellows indicated that this operation, costing nearly $700 had to be performed immediately.
Being concerned about the overall health and comfort of my pet, I of course agreed. Is it coincidence that his specialty is dentistry that this operation was "necessary immediately" and not considered a "genetic defect?" Perhaps, perhaps not. I then started what turned into a two week telephone tag contest with the owners of WOC stating my concern about this operation, and more to the point why it would not be covered under their genetic defect policy. Clearly, if it is an abnormal dental condition it is a defect, and not a result of the food or care she was receiving at home. They sent me a check for $100 eventually to shut me up basically, and I considered it better than nothing.
Obviously, it isn't coincidence that Dr. Bellows is/was the preferred vet for W.O.C. Does he in fact have financial/silent partner ties with Wizard of Claws? I don't know. As disgusting as whatever the allegations and facts are against WOC and their business practices, what I find more disturbing is that it appears Dr. Bellows may have allowed puppies in his care to "pass inspection," only later to become seriously ill or even die. So now what hidden problems do our pets have that were not "caught?" Only time will tell. By the way, if anyone can refer me to a good vet, I still have a dog I would like to keep around for a while!
J.
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
U.S.A.
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