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Report: #410639

Complaint Review: Dave & Claudia Soto - Chihuahua Dream - San Jose California

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  • Reported By: Sebastopol California
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  • Dave & Claudia Soto - Chihuahua Dream 3630 Kettman Rd San Jose, California U.S.A.

Dave & Claudia Soto - Chihuahua Dream Representing puppies as registered with the CKC, but do not provide the registration paperwork as promised San Jose California

*Consumer Comment: Breeders of My Most Beloved Chihuahua

*Author of original report: Chihuahua dream

*Consumer Comment: Dave & Claudia sold me THE BEST DOG EVER! NapoleonRULES!!!

*Author of original report: Update on Chihuahua Dream

*Consumer Comment: Objective comments

*Consumer Comment: i needed to share my experience

*Consumer Comment: Claudia & Dave Soto + Dawn Dalyce + Claudia Smith - what a tangled web we weave.

* : CON KC papers

*Consumer Comment: What seems to say it all

*Consumer Comment: What seems to say it all

*Consumer Comment: What seems to say it all

*Consumer Comment: What seems to say it all

*Consumer Comment: Dawn Dalyce of SugarNSpice Chihuahuas answers questions

*Consumer Comment: Chihuahua Dream is nothing short of a puppymill

*Consumer Comment: Chihuahua Dream is nothing short of a puppymill

*Consumer Comment: Chihuahua Dream is nothing short of a puppymill

*Consumer Comment: Chihuahua Dream is nothing short of a puppymill

*Consumer Comment: Okay, so am I going to be refunded for all the medical bills I've occured because of her PRA?

*UPDATE Employee: Rebuttal for Chihuahua Dream

*Consumer Comment: So when do they tell the truth?

*Consumer Comment: And here they go again....

*Consumer Comment: Comment on you never know what's going to happen

*Consumer Comment: I purchaased my dog from Chihuahua Dream and am buying another very happy with them.

*Consumer Comment: Sent them the link and told them they may want to re-visit

*Consumer Comment: The only information I know about my chihuahua

*Consumer Comment: I sincerely hope that any other 'health' subjects are not due to them actually occuring from here on out

*Consumer Comment: I purchased 3 dogs from Chihuahua Dreams in 2 years.

*Consumer Comment: Update on my dog that I bought from Chihuahua Dream 3 years ago

*REBUTTAL Owner of company: CKC registration for Mick and Megan in Sebastopol, CA

*Consumer Suggestion: Be careful, know what your buying, ask questions...

*Consumer Comment: Are they lying?

*Consumer Suggestion: My AKC papers don't list the Soto's or Dawn as the breeder!

*Consumer Comment: Some of the California puppy lemon laws which apply to breeders

*Consumer Comment: This is becoming quite the educational post I think, LOL

*Consumer Comment: In response to devilsadvocate

*Consumer Comment: In response to devilsadvocate

*Consumer Comment: In response to devilsadvocate

*Consumer Comment: Just wanted to add my comments

*Consumer Comment: My sister and I purchased two chihuahuas back in 2006 from Dave and Claudia Soto

*Consumer Suggestion: My dog was sold to me by Chihuahua Dream as pure breed but is a mix

*Consumer Comment: No registration does not mean not purebred

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We located our puppy on a very professional appearing web site that represents themselves as breeders of pure bred chihuahuas. Claudia Soto was contacted by phone and after questions were answered regarding this puppy we were interested in, we paid the full price to reserve him. We were assured that his registration papers would be in the file when we came to pick him up. Both the Soto's would not be home, but they said that their assistant Sunshine would help us.

We were somewhat surprised when we arrived and Sunshine brought the puppy out for us to see. We discovered that the photo on the web site showed the puppy as a six to eight weeks old, he was actually four and a half months old.

We asked to see the kennel area and were told that they do not allow anyone in there because they don't want to disturb the new mothers.

We completed the paperwork and noticed the registration was not included. We requested the registration papers as he was represented as a pure bred chihuahua and were told that they weren't available, but they would be mailed to us.

In desperation we have asked them to provide the names and registration numbers of the Sire and b***h, to no avail.

It has been five months and we have still not received the paperwork. We have made several e-mail inquireies and spoke to Dave Soto by phone, who was very rude and unprofessional. Any ideas on how to get our paperwork? We're not even sure that our baby is even a pure bred chihuahua now.

Megan
Sebastopol, California
U.S.A.

This report was posted on Ripoff Report on 01/10/2009 11:17 PM and is a permanent record located here: https://www.ripoffreport.com/reports/dave-claudia-soto-chihuahua-dream/san-jose-california-95121/dave-claudia-soto-chihuahua-dream-representing-puppies-as-registered-with-the-ckc-but-410639. The posting time indicated is Arizona local time. Arizona does not observe daylight savings so the post time may be Mountain or Pacific depending on the time of year. Ripoff Report has an exclusive license to this report. It may not be copied without the written permission of Ripoff Report. READ: Foreign websites steal our content

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REBUTTALS & REPLIES:
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1Employee/Owner

#41 Consumer Comment

Breeders of My Most Beloved Chihuahua

AUTHOR: Julie - (United States)

POSTED: Saturday, March 02, 2024

 In 2008, I had the pleasure of dealing with Dave & Claudia Soto, and was blessed with the tiny Chihuahua they called "Mini Queen” that will always be the love of my life! Dave & Claudia couldn’t have been more lovely, helpful, and kind. And I wish I knew where they were today, so I could hopefully purchase another Chihuahua from them! My little girl was always healthy, happy, and the most cuddly and loving dog one could ever hope to have. There will undoubtedly be people with grievances in life, but I am here to offer my support for Dave & Claudia and Dream Chihuahua, as they definitely produced my own dream Chihuahua and I just adore them for that!

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#40 Author of original report

Chihuahua dream

AUTHOR: Megan - (United States)

POSTED: Friday, January 04, 2019

 Dear Napoleon dad, I'm glad that you had a good experience with the Soto's, unfortunately I did not and not because of the puppy I purchased he is wonderful. My problem with the Soto's was due to them not following thru on their contract with me.

I too did my homework which is why I won my lawsuit against them for misrepresentation and failure to uphold their end of a contract. I will never know if the puppy I purchased is purebred or not. What I can tell you is that the Soto's are in contempt for not paying a judgment and I will be seeing them in court again due to them not paying their judgment ordered to me.

So yes by All means people should do their research and no one should naysay someone else and try and say that their claims are false when they don't have evidence to disprove those claims just because they don't want to believe someone else's experience. Megan, Mick's mom.

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#39 Consumer Comment

Dave & Claudia sold me THE BEST DOG EVER! NapoleonRULES!!!

AUTHOR: Eddie~ Napoleon's Dad! - (United States)

POSTED: Friday, January 04, 2019

 I do not know the Sotos other than purchasing NAPOLEON from them in 2007. Haven't spoken to them since. NAPOLEON is a tiny white apple head male~ BEST DOG EVER!!! Great personality, BEAUTIFUL, healthy!!!

Whatever the whining people above are saying, do not believe it, I did my homework, sat in the room with a bowling alley and met Napols! I paid them and left. BEST MONEY I HAVE EVER SPENT!!!! Thank You for NAPOLEON! I am seeking the Soto's out to PURCHASE ANOTHER CHIHUAHUA. Eddie

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#38 Author of original report

Update on Chihuahua Dream

AUTHOR: - ()

POSTED: Friday, December 11, 2015

 As of today 12/2015 Mick and I did sue the Soto's and Chihuahua Dream for Mick's CKC paperwork, we won our case in court in 2010. We were awarded not only his paperwork but a monetary settlement, for which we still have a judgment pending due to the fact that we received his papers but to date have still not been paid the monetary part of the settlement. Please be wary, while Mick is a very healthy and gorgeous blue merle chihuahua he is also 15lbs which is much larger than the 4-6lbs that they advertise their dogs to be. I hope that this update will help with your decision to purchase from these 'Breeders'. Sincerely, Megan and Mick B.

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#37 Consumer Comment

Objective comments

AUTHOR: Marjorie - (USA)

POSTED: Tuesday, December 13, 2011

I wanted to make some objective comments about my experience dealing with Dave and Claudia Soto.  I purchased two female Chihuahuas a few years ago from Dave and Claudia.  Prior to that, I spent a few months here and there trying to find a Chihuahua.  It took me a few months to find a Chihuahua I liked and felt good about that was good quality and also reasonably priced.  I visited many different sites and talked to several different kennels before I purchased.

I was trying to find a blue but did not have a lot of success until finally I was referred to Dave and Claudia by another breeder who was a reputable breeder so I felt that that was a plus. I spoke to Claudia numerous times and asked numerous questions.   I was very hesitant to buy from my state because of horror stories about people who breed too close in the same bloodlines so I looked out of state for my purchase and asked about bloodlines. 

I sent a lot of e-mails before I committed, making sure all my questions were answered. Claudia was not always quick to respond but neither am I so I cant fault that.  I called the house enough that I was bordering on becoming a pest and they were never short or impatient with me.  Sometimes Claudia was not available because she was assisting with a delivery or something but she always called me back and spent whatever time was necessary answering my questions.  Claudias sincerity is what won me over and I like to think I am a good judge of character.  She seemed to genuinely love the breed and took an interest in making sure I was fully informed.  I finally felt comfortable about buying from her over everyone I talked with.

I was specifically interested in a blue and Claudia had a blue and tan that I instantly knew was mine the second I saw the photo.  I made it clear that I only wanted to see AKC pups and that I wanted a female that would be large enough to safely have a litter but be within standard. I was buying for my sister so too so I ended up buying a blue and tan and chocolate and tan from the same litter.  I have never regretted buying the girls because they have the best temperaments and I get numerous complements whenever they are with me. 

I was so impressed with Claudia that my husband and I drove to northern California from Utah in dangerous conditions.  It was 10 miles an hour through the Sierra Nevada mountain range, with chains that kept falling off and whiteout conditions and it was very stressful driving my sedan through all of that, just to buy two dogs.  It took us several hours to get through the mountain range from Nevada to Northern California turning a normally 12-13 hour trip into 16-17 hours each way. 

We drove straight out to California from Utah, arrived very late, stayed the night and drove back to Utah with the girls through the same whiteout, whitenuckle conditions through Donner Pass.  It was so bad coming back that they closed the canyon even to trucks with four wheel drive a while after we entered the canyon. Those girls had no idea that we risked life and limb buying them.  Claudias staff was careful to make sure I knew how to watch for signs of hypoglycermia and they gave me syringes of syrup just in case because it was such a long drive back home.  I would do it again in a heartbeat.   

Oh, I also asked to see the kennel and Claudia did not hesitate to show me the barn; she also did not hesitate to tell me how many dogs she had or answer any of my questions.  Not many breeders will take you on a personal tour.  It was clean; it did not smell at all and only about half of the dogs even barked at me when she showed me around.  

The only thing that I have been disappointed in is that the coat of the chocolate and tan longcoat because it did not all grow in one length as I had hoped.  It is long around the head and on her chest and belly but not as long on the back and sides.  However, she is adorable and everyone thinks she is cuter than my smoothcoat blue girl.  If they are together, it is always Coco that gets oogled at and I think that the blue girl Ady is more impressive.  Both have awesome temperments and are very mellow. My blue and tan just had her first litter and I cant believe how beautiful the colors and markings are on her five puppies.

I have no idea how I will part with them or how I will find owners as loving as I am or who will appreciate how absolutely perfect their markings are.  I was so happy about the pups I wrote Claudia and sent pictures.  The two girls I got from Claudia (Coco and Adelita), were actually Dawns per the pedigree (litter mates), but that does not bother me because both of the parents of my girls had exactly what I wanted in the lines, which was a pleasant surprise.  I caution people reading negative comments to not take all the negative comments as gospel truth.  I would buy again from Claudia and risk life and limb driving there again if I cant find what I am looking for in the future. 

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#36 Consumer Comment

i needed to share my experience

AUTHOR: melanie - (United States of America)

POSTED: Saturday, June 18, 2011

My name is Melanie, and I was looking up Karens name on the internet because I have never seen Chihuahuas Dream's webpage.  Once I, instead, stumbled across this website and posting, I absolutely felt the need to post a response.

When we were living in Santa Cruz, my husband had been talking to Karen about looking for a dog for me and, in December of 2009, scheduled to drive up to San Jose to meet her at Claudia and Dave Sotos house, which is also their place of business.  The house and dog barn/house, (where most of the dogs live), are right next to each other and surrounded by lots of land and trees and grass.  There are fenced in areas behind and around where the dogs live in and the entire property is surrounded by a fence so there are no dogs running off in to a street or the woods somewhere.

We had to open the fence at the bottom of the driveway.  Where we were going was a suprise for me(christmas was coming), but I could hear barking through the the trees as we climbed their long, windy, rural driveway.  When we got out of the car, Karen greeted us followed by a big, old, sweet bulldog and his chihuahua buddy jumping all over him.  Dave Soto came over to say hello and we talked about the bulldogs he rescues and his love for them.  Karen took my husband and me in to the house to meet Claudia Soto.  There were a few dogs in the house that were their pets, (they wouldnt let us take them home), and some older dogs that permanently resided in the house due to special needs and care and attention.  The Sotos sat us down to get to know us and to figure out what dog would be perfectly suited for the both of us.  They showed us a gazillion dogs, answered all of our questions, did not pressure us, and made sure we were good people to be adopting one of their dogs and knew how to take care of a chihuahua.

I love my little fur man more than any other dog I have ever seen or met or could even imagine.  The vet always says he is healthy, and everyone he meets wants to take him home.  Hes happy, healthy, calm, easy-going, never barks, he loves playing with other dogs both large and small, he loves people and hugs, he can walk on a leash down a crowded city sidewalk or hell ride along in my purse, he loves parks and the beach or sitting around, he is NOT needy or territorial, he always uses a litterbox, and hes the most handsome little guy ever!

Im an animal activist, Ive been vegetarian since I was nine years old, and I love animals.  Ive temporarily adopted several rescued sanctuary animals to train and socialize them a bit and to build up their confidence and trust while finding them a permanent forever home with someone perfect for them.  Ive learned that the MOST important factor in forming a dogs temperment is the first several weeks of its life.  If a dog is not properly socialized and cared for in the first several weeks(months) of its life, then the resulting behavioral problems are extremely difficult to change.  I have seen many a chihuahuas all too quick to nip or growl at an admiring hand because the dog wouldnt know that only good things should come from an outstretched human hand-  or too quick to snarl and chomp at any friendly inquiring dog because the chihuahua was not properly socialized to know what the proper greeting to play is from another dog- and I have seen way too many dogs so NEEDY that they can never be alone, (they howl and cry and bark and jump when left alone):  they beg for constant attention and become extremely anxious if not right next to their owner.  These dogs were given way too much attention and coddling early on and were never left alone.  They have no self-confidence and feel afraid and vulnerable when their owners have left and cant protect them.  Sooo, anyways, the point of that whole schpeel was:  I would not have the most amazing, sweet, trusting, relaxed, friendly, playful, eager to learn, not to mention handsome doggie without the loving, caring, attentive breeding and upbringing of the Sotos.  When I first met my husband, he hated small dogs with a passion.  After we got Milo, or Mellow Boy from Claudia and Dave Soto, he calls him his son and carries him around everywhere with him.

The Sotos watched our little guy several times for us while my husband and I went on vacation.  Each time, he was so happy to see them.  When he stays with them, he gets to see and sleep with his doggie mommy when he does not cuddle with Claudia in her bed.  They are some of the sweetest, most caring people.  It was winter when we had flown in from a vacation- there had been storms all week, and the power had been out in the whole county for several days.  The Sotos were running around all night in the mud and the rain, getting dry blankets and food, and making sure all of the generators were running to keep the dogs toasty warm and dry.  They could care less about the house not having any electricity at all for days:  their only concern was the dogs.  The poor puppies!  The noises scare them.  They need to stay nice and warm.  They were so sweet to watch our dog, telling us they were happy to and hugging him goodbye.

Now that my husband and I live in Miami, despite the plethora of dogs, I think my pup wins the cute competition.  We are planning on calling Karen and flying back to San Jose for the single purpose of getting another dog from the Sotos.  I tell everyone who asks where I got my dog because everyone always wants to keep him once theyve held him.  Im sorry to all of the people that have had a bad experience, but I can tell you that Karen along with Dave and Claudia Soto are caring, giving, loving people who were immeasurably helpful.  I am an animal lover, so this is coming from an empathetic, caring person.  I carry Karens card in my wallet and my purse, even though I live in Miami, because I know that if I ever need to for any reason, I can call her about my little guy....  and I know that when my husband says we are getting another chihuahua, I have her number on hand.

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#35

CON KC papers

AUTHOR: Kristina - (USA)

POSTED: Thursday, September 17, 2009

I would simply like to point one thing out because it has not been addressed - ANYONE in the USA of with with CKC papers that are NOT from the Canadian Kennel club is not a breeder worth dealing with. You can register ANY dog with Continental as long as you CLAIM it is such and such breed with two witnesses. If they are not breed club specific papers the only papers you should receive depending on breed are from the AKC or the UKC(second oldest kennel club in the US)

ConKC papers are to ALWAYS be a red flag.

Now someone mentioned that they state they do not give papers to pet homes - another flag. Why? Because REPUTABLE breeders will provide you with the registration paperwork WITH the limited registration box checked (thus selling you a pup with ZERO breeding rights) and sell on a mandatory spay/neuter contract.

Neither of those? Another flag

Reputable breeders will ALWAYS provide proof of any claim they make whether it be of registration with said kennel club, health clearances etc. If they won't give you the information ask yourself this - what do they have to hide? The fact that no such testing was done? That their dogs really aren't registered?

If you want a well bred purebred find a breeder through your National or local breed clubs. The information is there people you just have to be a well informed consumer.

Another and very BIG flag: Their dogs are kept in multiple homes - you aren't going to find ANY reputable breeder spreading their dogs to multiple homes so they can maximize how many litters they have a year.

There are plenty of other flags on their page, but I am not going to get into that. Educate yourself BEFORE you buy.

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#34 Consumer Comment

Claudia & Dave Soto + Dawn Dalyce + Claudia Smith - what a tangled web we weave.

AUTHOR: Amy - (U.S.A.)

POSTED: Thursday, August 06, 2009

Ready for 6 degrees of separation?
I find it hard to believe that there are other people, that know each other, and adopt out animals with these same exact names. So my guess is...it's bigger than any of you probably thought when you were taking care of your sick puppy...

Claudia and Dave Soto get dogs from Dawn Dalyce
Dawn Daylce previous provided a dog to Claudia Smith
Claudia Smith now works with the group P.E.T.S.

P.E.T.S. has a reputation for adopting out dogs that have not be neutered/spayed, are sick and malvourished, not providing shot/vet records and keeping neuter/spay rebates that should be repaid.

If you'd like, check out my blog savinganimalsfrompets.blogspot.com and read more stories from people who adopted sick and hurt animals from these people

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#33 Consumer Comment

What seems to say it all

AUTHOR: Devilsadvocate4education*just My Opinions* - (U.S.A.)

POSTED: Wednesday, July 08, 2009

Lisa, how are things going?
It's what's NOT being said that seems to be showing the truth of the matter.
I'm curious, why not join the program which allows limited Cont KC to go along with the limited AKC?
-We have a little control, over future traits, and defects, and we try...but NO-ONE can test for every possible genetic defect. Chihuahuas are not a breed that is typically prone to PRA (progressive retinal atrophy) ...and we do have our adults patellas checked.. (there is no OFA certification for PL). We do what we can. Hypoglycemia , hydrocephaly, and liver shunts are much more common, and in 5 generations, I've got those pretty much bred out...at least we aren't seeing those.-
True, we can't test for everything. The test has been done in this case. It runs in that/those lines. PERIOD. It is truly genetic /hereditary and there are markers for it and it's not a 'part' of any breed. Um, you may want to type Chihuahua with PRA into a search engine. There are many that list it though I don't believe it's listed by the breed club. WHAT? Here's the link to the app. that I used to get my certs. for patella's. http://www.offa.org/plappbw.pdf If they take it out it's easy to find on the OFA site.
-Yet the buyer, who gets the rare puppy, with 'thin retinas' thinks the breeder is frankenstein because they didn't prevent it? Come on. That could be a one in 1 million defect. - See, preventing it in the first place and them being horrible because it happened HASN'T actually come up. Only that it would be the case of they continue and they haven't seen fit to let us know the sire and dam which means it could be ANY of their breeding stock. Seems much more prudent to have the two known instead of having them all in question..
NO ONE associated with the Soto's and involved in the breeding and the selling INCLUDING the Soto's has said to Lisa, we are very sorry this happened to you and your pup and will do what we can to make sure it doesn't happen to anyone else (and that doesn't even mean never breed those dogs again, just not closely related KNOWN carriers together). THAT'S the problem. Blown off and overlooked and ignored? NOTHING other than how great they are and they can't even say I'm sorry you guys are going through this? That's ALL many of us have been waiting and watching for. A sincere feeling and expression of regret and empathy for what they have to go through which is a direct result of that breeding even though it wasn't intentional on their part. It's truly that (and also in part what was said INSTEAD at this point), that seems to say everything so far and leaves the greatest impression. *just my opinions*

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#32 Consumer Comment

What seems to say it all

AUTHOR: Devilsadvocate4education*just My Opinions* - (U.S.A.)

POSTED: Wednesday, July 08, 2009

Lisa, how are things going?
It's what's NOT being said that seems to be showing the truth of the matter.
I'm curious, why not join the program which allows limited Cont KC to go along with the limited AKC?
-We have a little control, over future traits, and defects, and we try...but NO-ONE can test for every possible genetic defect. Chihuahuas are not a breed that is typically prone to PRA (progressive retinal atrophy) ...and we do have our adults patellas checked.. (there is no OFA certification for PL). We do what we can. Hypoglycemia , hydrocephaly, and liver shunts are much more common, and in 5 generations, I've got those pretty much bred out...at least we aren't seeing those.-
True, we can't test for everything. The test has been done in this case. It runs in that/those lines. PERIOD. It is truly genetic /hereditary and there are markers for it and it's not a 'part' of any breed. Um, you may want to type Chihuahua with PRA into a search engine. There are many that list it though I don't believe it's listed by the breed club. WHAT? Here's the link to the app. that I used to get my certs. for patella's. http://www.offa.org/plappbw.pdf If they take it out it's easy to find on the OFA site.
-Yet the buyer, who gets the rare puppy, with 'thin retinas' thinks the breeder is frankenstein because they didn't prevent it? Come on. That could be a one in 1 million defect. - See, preventing it in the first place and them being horrible because it happened HASN'T actually come up. Only that it would be the case of they continue and they haven't seen fit to let us know the sire and dam which means it could be ANY of their breeding stock. Seems much more prudent to have the two known instead of having them all in question..
NO ONE associated with the Soto's and involved in the breeding and the selling INCLUDING the Soto's has said to Lisa, we are very sorry this happened to you and your pup and will do what we can to make sure it doesn't happen to anyone else (and that doesn't even mean never breed those dogs again, just not closely related KNOWN carriers together). THAT'S the problem. Blown off and overlooked and ignored? NOTHING other than how great they are and they can't even say I'm sorry you guys are going through this? That's ALL many of us have been waiting and watching for. A sincere feeling and expression of regret and empathy for what they have to go through which is a direct result of that breeding even though it wasn't intentional on their part. It's truly that (and also in part what was said INSTEAD at this point), that seems to say everything so far and leaves the greatest impression. *just my opinions*

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#31 Consumer Comment

What seems to say it all

AUTHOR: Devilsadvocate4education*just My Opinions* - (U.S.A.)

POSTED: Wednesday, July 08, 2009

Lisa, how are things going?
It's what's NOT being said that seems to be showing the truth of the matter.
I'm curious, why not join the program which allows limited Cont KC to go along with the limited AKC?
-We have a little control, over future traits, and defects, and we try...but NO-ONE can test for every possible genetic defect. Chihuahuas are not a breed that is typically prone to PRA (progressive retinal atrophy) ...and we do have our adults patellas checked.. (there is no OFA certification for PL). We do what we can. Hypoglycemia , hydrocephaly, and liver shunts are much more common, and in 5 generations, I've got those pretty much bred out...at least we aren't seeing those.-
True, we can't test for everything. The test has been done in this case. It runs in that/those lines. PERIOD. It is truly genetic /hereditary and there are markers for it and it's not a 'part' of any breed. Um, you may want to type Chihuahua with PRA into a search engine. There are many that list it though I don't believe it's listed by the breed club. WHAT? Here's the link to the app. that I used to get my certs. for patella's. http://www.offa.org/plappbw.pdf If they take it out it's easy to find on the OFA site.
-Yet the buyer, who gets the rare puppy, with 'thin retinas' thinks the breeder is frankenstein because they didn't prevent it? Come on. That could be a one in 1 million defect. - See, preventing it in the first place and them being horrible because it happened HASN'T actually come up. Only that it would be the case of they continue and they haven't seen fit to let us know the sire and dam which means it could be ANY of their breeding stock. Seems much more prudent to have the two known instead of having them all in question..
NO ONE associated with the Soto's and involved in the breeding and the selling INCLUDING the Soto's has said to Lisa, we are very sorry this happened to you and your pup and will do what we can to make sure it doesn't happen to anyone else (and that doesn't even mean never breed those dogs again, just not closely related KNOWN carriers together). THAT'S the problem. Blown off and overlooked and ignored? NOTHING other than how great they are and they can't even say I'm sorry you guys are going through this? That's ALL many of us have been waiting and watching for. A sincere feeling and expression of regret and empathy for what they have to go through which is a direct result of that breeding even though it wasn't intentional on their part. It's truly that (and also in part what was said INSTEAD at this point), that seems to say everything so far and leaves the greatest impression. *just my opinions*

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#30 Consumer Comment

What seems to say it all

AUTHOR: Devilsadvocate4education*just My Opinions* - (U.S.A.)

POSTED: Wednesday, July 08, 2009

Lisa, how are things going?
It's what's NOT being said that seems to be showing the truth of the matter.
I'm curious, why not join the program which allows limited Cont KC to go along with the limited AKC?
-We have a little control, over future traits, and defects, and we try...but NO-ONE can test for every possible genetic defect. Chihuahuas are not a breed that is typically prone to PRA (progressive retinal atrophy) ...and we do have our adults patellas checked.. (there is no OFA certification for PL). We do what we can. Hypoglycemia , hydrocephaly, and liver shunts are much more common, and in 5 generations, I've got those pretty much bred out...at least we aren't seeing those.-
True, we can't test for everything. The test has been done in this case. It runs in that/those lines. PERIOD. It is truly genetic /hereditary and there are markers for it and it's not a 'part' of any breed. Um, you may want to type Chihuahua with PRA into a search engine. There are many that list it though I don't believe it's listed by the breed club. WHAT? Here's the link to the app. that I used to get my certs. for patella's. http://www.offa.org/plappbw.pdf If they take it out it's easy to find on the OFA site.
-Yet the buyer, who gets the rare puppy, with 'thin retinas' thinks the breeder is frankenstein because they didn't prevent it? Come on. That could be a one in 1 million defect. - See, preventing it in the first place and them being horrible because it happened HASN'T actually come up. Only that it would be the case of they continue and they haven't seen fit to let us know the sire and dam which means it could be ANY of their breeding stock. Seems much more prudent to have the two known instead of having them all in question..
NO ONE associated with the Soto's and involved in the breeding and the selling INCLUDING the Soto's has said to Lisa, we are very sorry this happened to you and your pup and will do what we can to make sure it doesn't happen to anyone else (and that doesn't even mean never breed those dogs again, just not closely related KNOWN carriers together). THAT'S the problem. Blown off and overlooked and ignored? NOTHING other than how great they are and they can't even say I'm sorry you guys are going through this? That's ALL many of us have been waiting and watching for. A sincere feeling and expression of regret and empathy for what they have to go through which is a direct result of that breeding even though it wasn't intentional on their part. It's truly that (and also in part what was said INSTEAD at this point), that seems to say everything so far and leaves the greatest impression. *just my opinions*

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#29 Consumer Comment

Dawn Dalyce of SugarNSpice Chihuahuas answers questions

AUTHOR: Dawn - (U.S.A.)

POSTED: Thursday, July 02, 2009

Hi , I'm Dawn Dalyce of SugarNSpice Chihuahuas, the "Dawn" mentioned who does show, (limited now due to my car wreck, bad knees and foot etc), and has produced Champions and Grand Champions in 9 Countries.

First, lets clear up the subject of Sunshine and Whisper. Whisper is my natural daughter, she brought Sunshine home, I think in the 6th grade, and since Sunny had lost her own mother, and her dad drove truck and was mostly gone...Sunny lived with us thru high school, so she is my adopted (by the heart) daughter. That was around 10-15 years ago, and Sunny has lived on her own since then, working, including a year or two working for the Soto's, mostly doing internet work, since she's a wiz at that, and frankly Dave and Claudia are not.

Next, let's clear up my relationship with Dave and Claudia Soto. They are my friends, and they do as good a job, at raising puppies, and keeping their dogs and puppies happy and healthy as any breeder I've ever known. Claudia is an ex RN, and like me (an ex pediatric nurse, and ex labor room/nursery nurse and ex ambulance medic) ... does her very best to head off any health issues.

I have sold or leased them Champion and Grand Champion line AKC dogs, and I do mentor them by telling them which lines I think will mix the best. Papers on pups you get from them might list me as breeder, if the parents are leased, or I'm owed a puppy back or something. They also bought dogs from other breeders/ lines, and those have no relation to me, and could have the name of someone else on papers.

Did you know many show line dogs are sold with a puppy back agreement, so the first litter will have the name of the past owner as breeder, since the buyer doesn't get registration till a puppy is given back? That's normal folks, not unusual. That's how we hang onto our old bloodlines.

Claudia has show quality, and Champion quality puppies at her house, for higher prices, and kept for show or breeding homes, and offer AKC registration for those ( we're trying to pick one to ship to Israel today to a Champion filled home). Pet puppies are usually sold without registration, or with CKC registration, or limited AKC, because we have had people buy lessor quality puppies, cheap, then take our pedigrees, use photos and witnesses , and get CKC or DRA or other registrations, so they have our lines to breed. This irks us, because in trying to leave a legacy of improving the breed, we only want to offer our best 10% to breeding homes, and even when dogs are VERY nice, may not offer them if they are the first breeding of the parents, so that we KNOW if there are defects in the line. First litters are usually "pets". That's not unusual, that's responsible breeding.

Did the people with bad knees or bad eyes in their puppies know these are maybe 1 in 100 defects, that could be reason the puppies were sold as pets until the breeder sees how the parent match came out? The eyes anyway..knees are usually growth -jumping injuries.

Actually ALL toy dogs, yorkies, poodles, chihuahuas, and on and on, are very prone to patella luxation, due to shallow grooves for the patella ligament to lie in...and can be caused by letting a growing puppy climb up and down stairs, or jump on/off furniture. That's not a defect , it comes with being a toy, like short legs come with being a Dachshund.

If this patella luxation happens months after the buyer takes the puppy home, and the breeder hears "my 9 month old puppy can no longer leap off the couch like she used to, or race up and down the stairs like normal, I think something is wrong with her knees). HUH???!!! We of course freak as our Care Protocol and our guarantee warns against such risks.... yet still we get blamed? Is that fair? Should we now pay the bill for the buyer's mistake? uh...nope.

My ex-husband has a completely ruined shoulder from being a catcher at age 12. He was great at it, but ruined his rotater cuff, and can hardly raise his arm above his head now. Did you know human children can be injured while growing too? My feet are flat as boards, and I was a climber and jumper. Real Acrobat. Should I blame my "breeder"?

Animals are flesh and bone and DNA. We have a little control, over future traits, and defects, and we try...but NO-ONE can test for every possible genetic defect. Chihuahuas are not a breed that is typically prone to PRA (progressive retinal atrophy) ...and we do have our adults patellas checked.. (there is no OFA certification for PL). We do what we can. Hypoglycemia , hydrocephaly, and liver shunts are much more common, and in 5 generations, I've got those pretty much bred out...at least we aren't seeing those.

Did you know humans have genetic defects too? When you had your children, did you have your DNA checked for heart defects? Diabetes? Epilepsy? Cleft Palet? Tourettes Syndrome? Blindness? Deafness? Midget syndrome? Mental illness? (guess your parents didn't or you wouldn't be hating on this site) Others?

The childrens hospitals are full of children with these defects and worse. ... Yet the buyer, who gets the rare puppy, with "thin retinas" thinks the breeder is frankenstein because they didn't prevent it? Come on. That could be a one in 1 million defect. Undetectible by tests.

I give a lifetime guarantee against disabling or crippling or fatal genetic defects by my generous definition. Blindness in a 3 year old would be included, and rate you a credit equal to your purchase price, on the puppy of your choice. I wouldn't pay your vet bills, no breeder would. Vet bills are highly subjective, vets charge different prices, order excessive tests, and sometimes are completely wrong at the end of thousands of dollars of tests. We require buyers to have health insurance for $ 20 - 35 . a month to protect themselves from high costs, or to pay for their puppies future health care, unless they want to give it back to us, to be replaced.

We trust our vets, they give us the straight scoop, and discounts on service because we spend usually $ 20,000 . - 30,000. with them a year . Bigger customers get discounts...it's the way of private enterprise. So, if your dog has a defect, and you failed to get recommended insurance, and you love your pup too much to give it up, because it's a great pet despite a defect, then you need to choose vet bills and tests you think are reasonable and pay them. That is reasonable.
If you'd like to hear several horror stories, about vet mistakes killing or nearly killing pets, give me a call, and get a comfortable chair.... I can go on for hours. We aren't giving our permission to charge us carte blanc for vet bills, just because we were the breeder..... and you wouldn't either in our place. We've seen thousands billed (or threatened) for something we could cure with 10 cents worth of honey, and $ 3.25 cents worth of albon. I know you've heard of humans having wrong surgery, unneeded or wrong medicines or tests, and bad results. We prefer to spend our money on top bloodlines, and best pet care, and showing when we can. By the way, coccedia is normal flora in 98% of dogs because they lick where a wild bird has crapped..and VACCINES cause outbreaks due to immune slump. That is NO cause to hate on a breeder. YOU humans have plenty of germs too!

Dave and Claudia are meeting this week with a professional handler who finished 42 of her own home bred Champions and 36 for other owners. They haven't avoided showing, they just don't know how to themselves. Do you? Want to show ours??

The Sotos don't live in LA, they have a child , with a major modeling contract, who's getting pretty big entertainment and modeling jobs, so the go there to try to support that child. Their kids are gorgeous, like their dogs. Lucky Sotos !

Claudia is expert at medicine, and barely functional on the computer, so she pays Karen to do her photo loading, advertising, computer work, and to meet people when she's out and can't. Claudia also has a thick accent so it's best if Karen or someone answers phone calls. Big deal. Dave is even less good on the computer.

They do show people their clean and happy acres, and home and adult dogs. I've heard it from lots of people. If a computer employee helping out, when they are gone, like Sunshine, doesn't take people inside to disturb whelping or new mothers, or track germs into puppies...or take a chance on people stealing puppies behind the back of one girl, alone, trying to show puppies..... do you think you could give her a break??? I imagine those were the rules. People do swipe puppies, if they can distract an owner.... often.

This hate site, gives a voice, to anyone, who wants to gripe, with no proof, or no identity given, fair or not. People even fake names and identitys to bash competing breeders.... get in your comfy chair and call me, I'll tell on em.

Shame shame shame, if you believe everything you read, and don't go visit for yourself, and see if there is another side to an issue, or more information to know. Dave and Claudia are very very caring people, spend way too much money at the vet at the drop of a hat, and bend way over for people they didn't need to. They have lots of acres , a beautiful huge clean home, and nice living conditions for their dogs. So convenient right in San Jose. Soooo much better than other breeders that I've seen. 99.9 % of their buyers are thrilled, and lucky to find them.

I've had to scold them about being taken advantage of. If you want to see gorgeous dogs and puppies, top bloodlines, and meet people that you want as friends for LIFE , then go visit Chihuahua Dream,and Dave and Claudia Soto. If you are nice, then you'll likely make friends, and get a puppy that is WAY above the quality, that you'll find from other breeders.

If you want to be 100% certain that your dog will never have a health issue, please buy a stuffed toy. Even electronic pets have "glitches " sometimes.

Dawn Dalyce SugarNSpice Chihuahuas

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#28 Consumer Comment

Chihuahua Dream is nothing short of a puppymill

AUTHOR: Becarefulofpuppymillsnbrokers - (U.S.A.)

POSTED: Tuesday, June 23, 2009

Addressing a number of previous posts specifically the Sotos response and the nonsense of the statement "we only give AKC/CKC papers for those puppies being shown", not sure where in the US there is a recognizable show dog that is CKC. Secondly do you even show any of your dogs? I've never seen your name in any local or state AKC shows for champion, best in show nothing. Most reputable breeders show their dogs which you do not do. Most reputable breeders do not advertsie dogs that are weeks old only for the consumer to find out that the dog they thought they were receiving is 4-6 months old (in which case the price should go down significantly as older dogs do not go for the same prices as puppies) or not even the dog they were interested in.

When do you give tours of your "kennel" seems like whenever there is a question of sire's and dam's and to view the place, you or your "workers" always have an excuse on why the entire kennel cannot be viewed. When a consumer has detailed questions on litters you figure oh this person wants to know way too much info so I'm just going to ignore them not return their phone calls or emails. You did this to my girlfriend and her husband about two months ago. Thank god they decided not to go with you and go with another reputable breeder in Socal. When they told me about you I let them know they were correct in their assumption you are nothing more than a puppymill and can care less about those dogs, it's all about lining your pocket.

Horrible thing of it all is that you have quality dogs that are just more to breed only for you. I use to show with Dawn from SNS and she sold you many of her champions and you are just producing dogs not caring one bit about pedigree, they are just more dogs to you.

Shame on you guys, one day your establishment if that's even what you want to call it will be shut down for good and it will be well deserved.

Buyers beware, stay away from this one. If you have to pay more money for quality by all means do so and have peace of mind. If something doesn't seem right then it's probably not.

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#27 Consumer Comment

Chihuahua Dream is nothing short of a puppymill

AUTHOR: Becarefulofpuppymillsnbrokers - (U.S.A.)

POSTED: Tuesday, June 23, 2009

Addressing a number of previous posts specifically the Sotos response and the nonsense of the statement "we only give AKC/CKC papers for those puppies being shown", not sure where in the US there is a recognizable show dog that is CKC. Secondly do you even show any of your dogs? I've never seen your name in any local or state AKC shows for champion, best in show nothing. Most reputable breeders show their dogs which you do not do. Most reputable breeders do not advertsie dogs that are weeks old only for the consumer to find out that the dog they thought they were receiving is 4-6 months old (in which case the price should go down significantly as older dogs do not go for the same prices as puppies) or not even the dog they were interested in.

When do you give tours of your "kennel" seems like whenever there is a question of sire's and dam's and to view the place, you or your "workers" always have an excuse on why the entire kennel cannot be viewed. When a consumer has detailed questions on litters you figure oh this person wants to know way too much info so I'm just going to ignore them not return their phone calls or emails. You did this to my girlfriend and her husband about two months ago. Thank god they decided not to go with you and go with another reputable breeder in Socal. When they told me about you I let them know they were correct in their assumption you are nothing more than a puppymill and can care less about those dogs, it's all about lining your pocket.

Horrible thing of it all is that you have quality dogs that are just more to breed only for you. I use to show with Dawn from SNS and she sold you many of her champions and you are just producing dogs not caring one bit about pedigree, they are just more dogs to you.

Shame on you guys, one day your establishment if that's even what you want to call it will be shut down for good and it will be well deserved.

Buyers beware, stay away from this one. If you have to pay more money for quality by all means do so and have peace of mind. If something doesn't seem right then it's probably not.

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#26 Consumer Comment

Chihuahua Dream is nothing short of a puppymill

AUTHOR: Becarefulofpuppymillsnbrokers - (U.S.A.)

POSTED: Tuesday, June 23, 2009

Addressing a number of previous posts specifically the Sotos response and the nonsense of the statement "we only give AKC/CKC papers for those puppies being shown", not sure where in the US there is a recognizable show dog that is CKC. Secondly do you even show any of your dogs? I've never seen your name in any local or state AKC shows for champion, best in show nothing. Most reputable breeders show their dogs which you do not do. Most reputable breeders do not advertsie dogs that are weeks old only for the consumer to find out that the dog they thought they were receiving is 4-6 months old (in which case the price should go down significantly as older dogs do not go for the same prices as puppies) or not even the dog they were interested in.

When do you give tours of your "kennel" seems like whenever there is a question of sire's and dam's and to view the place, you or your "workers" always have an excuse on why the entire kennel cannot be viewed. When a consumer has detailed questions on litters you figure oh this person wants to know way too much info so I'm just going to ignore them not return their phone calls or emails. You did this to my girlfriend and her husband about two months ago. Thank god they decided not to go with you and go with another reputable breeder in Socal. When they told me about you I let them know they were correct in their assumption you are nothing more than a puppymill and can care less about those dogs, it's all about lining your pocket.

Horrible thing of it all is that you have quality dogs that are just more to breed only for you. I use to show with Dawn from SNS and she sold you many of her champions and you are just producing dogs not caring one bit about pedigree, they are just more dogs to you.

Shame on you guys, one day your establishment if that's even what you want to call it will be shut down for good and it will be well deserved.

Buyers beware, stay away from this one. If you have to pay more money for quality by all means do so and have peace of mind. If something doesn't seem right then it's probably not.

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#25 Consumer Comment

Chihuahua Dream is nothing short of a puppymill

AUTHOR: Becarefulofpuppymillsnbrokers - (U.S.A.)

POSTED: Tuesday, June 23, 2009

Addressing a number of previous posts specifically the Sotos response and the nonsense of the statement "we only give AKC/CKC papers for those puppies being shown", not sure where in the US there is a recognizable show dog that is CKC. Secondly do you even show any of your dogs? I've never seen your name in any local or state AKC shows for champion, best in show nothing. Most reputable breeders show their dogs which you do not do. Most reputable breeders do not advertsie dogs that are weeks old only for the consumer to find out that the dog they thought they were receiving is 4-6 months old (in which case the price should go down significantly as older dogs do not go for the same prices as puppies) or not even the dog they were interested in.

When do you give tours of your "kennel" seems like whenever there is a question of sire's and dam's and to view the place, you or your "workers" always have an excuse on why the entire kennel cannot be viewed. When a consumer has detailed questions on litters you figure oh this person wants to know way too much info so I'm just going to ignore them not return their phone calls or emails. You did this to my girlfriend and her husband about two months ago. Thank god they decided not to go with you and go with another reputable breeder in Socal. When they told me about you I let them know they were correct in their assumption you are nothing more than a puppymill and can care less about those dogs, it's all about lining your pocket.

Horrible thing of it all is that you have quality dogs that are just more to breed only for you. I use to show with Dawn from SNS and she sold you many of her champions and you are just producing dogs not caring one bit about pedigree, they are just more dogs to you.

Shame on you guys, one day your establishment if that's even what you want to call it will be shut down for good and it will be well deserved.

Buyers beware, stay away from this one. If you have to pay more money for quality by all means do so and have peace of mind. If something doesn't seem right then it's probably not.

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#24 Consumer Comment

Okay, so am I going to be refunded for all the medical bills I've occured because of her PRA?

AUTHOR: Lisa - (U.S.A.)

POSTED: Tuesday, June 02, 2009

For you to say that the Soto's will help with a puppy was not true in my case. I did call, they never returned my call. Am I supposed to beg them to help save the life of a puppy that I purchased from them? Maybe in the past three years they have changed the way they do business??? You would think they would be VERY interested to know which two breeding dogs passed along the PRA.

So, are they going to refund me a partial payment for the purchase price of my Chihuahua, and all of her vet bills for the Progressive Retinal Atrophy that she has? It is genetic. Am I going to be refunded for all the office visit, test, meds, etc..etc..etc... that I paid for when she was near death as a puppy? All the Soto's had to do was call me back, I could have told them what was going on, and they would have known EXACTLY what she had, Coccidia & Giardia. How about when she will need surgery because of her LP's in both knees. Her Opthamologist says she will eventually be BLIND! My God, she is only three years old. I've kept every receipt!!

What's done is done, and I really don't expect a dime from them, or would I take a dime from them. I do however think that people have the right to hear about my experience, and then they can make a decision whether or not to buy from the Soto's.

I'm glad you think they are wonderful breeders that breed for the betterment of the breed, and would never breed a dog with genetic problems, and would always be willing to help a new puppy owner in distress. I have not seen that side of them so I can only talk about what I know.

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#23 UPDATE Employee

Rebuttal for Chihuahua Dream

AUTHOR: Karen Weir - (U.S.A.)

POSTED: Wednesday, May 27, 2009

This is in rebuttal to some of what has been posted about me on this site. I am the Karen referred to in some of the posts regarding Chihuahua Dream. Some of the statements about me are complete conjecture, with absolutely no basis in fact, and since posted in a public forum, slander.

I am not a broker. I have had the pleasure of working exclusively with the Sotos/Chihuahua Dream for over 2 years, assisting them with advertising and customer service in placing their pups. I have never brought "truckloads of puppies" to or from anywhere and did not know that Chihuahua auctions existed until reading the slander posted here.

I am a big Chihuahua fan and have shopped for Chihuahuas for myself, prior to meeting the Sotos. I, personally, have never met any breeders, so aboveboard, so friendly and so willing to accommodate people and guarantee their dogs, as they are.

Claudia is an extremely skilled breeder with a medical background and because of the caliber of standard that they operate with and provide, I have come to consider what they do to be more of a service to people, who want to find a safe place to buy a Chihuahua.

People are fortunate to find Chihuahua Dream and to not be subject to the many heartbreaking pitfalls that you can run into when buying from oftentimes, lying, uncaring, sub-standard breeders, out to make a quick buck on these wonderful small dogs and who don't know what they are doing.

I can honestly never say enough about the Sotos, having watched them work tirelessly over the years and bend over backwards, working with people and making sure they are happy with their dog. They continue to amaze me, in instances where I know that no other breeder would have the patience, take responsibility, make concessions, refund money, etc. People can be very fickle when buying a dog and do take advantage of the Sotos' good nature sometimes. Still, the Sotos always err on the side of the safety and welfare of the dog and try their best for a positve outcome for the people. Money is never the object. Theirs is a labour of love.

There is no limit to what they will expend, be it time, travel, energy or finances, to save any dog, young or old, if it is in any kind of trouble. Part of my job is to answer the phone 24/7, in case anybody needs any tips or help, emergency or otherwise, in case the Sotos are busy with the dogs and aren't able to answer the phone. We always ask people as they leave with their pup, to contact us immediately if there is a problem while the pup is in transition in it's new home.

Sometimes people have been pretty unreasonable when the Sotos tried their best to help. In example, a possible heart murmur was diagnosed in a pup that someone had owned for only 24 hours. The Sotos immediately offered a full refund on return of the dog. The person refused to give up the dog and they all agreed on a partial refund with a release of liability for the Sotos from then on. Though they had all contracted for that, later on, the Sotos still offered the assistance of their vet, at their expense. The person refused that help and incurred an enormous vet bill on her own, which she then sued them for. When they got to court, the judge asked the person if she understood that she never needed to incur the vet bill she was suing for. The Sotos had offered everything possible and gone above and beyond what was legally necessary on their part. This person lost her case in a court of law, but continues to complain on this site.

I don't know who is behind the more venomous lies and hearsay about me, but if I could, I would take them to court, for printing it about me and the Sotos, here in public, when they know they have no firsthand knowledge or factual basis for their statements.

It is just really too bad, that when people try as hard as the Sotos do, with a love and a passion for what they do, that a few people on this site could paint such a twisted and corrupted picture of who they are, what they are about, and what they strive for. The Sotos are two of the nicest people you could want to meet, and especially in the Chihuahua breeding business.

The Sotos try harder than anyone I have met in the business, to do their very best in every regard, if people are at all reasonable, and at least even let us know if there is a problem. Dogs are living things and baby dogs are delicate and can have a hard time in transition. Sometimes if there is a problem, people just get mad, blame the Sotos, and don't inform them, until sometimes, sadly, it is too late for the innocent pup, due to the new owner's own negligence. By the time they do bring the pup back, and still receive a full refund, Claudia then sometimes needs to spend many hours and sleepless nights trying to save the poor pup, again due to the people's own negligence of the pup. I have also seen, if need be, the Sotos jump in the car at any time of the day or night to drive long distances, to check on a pup, or pick it up because the new owner was concerned about something, but wouldn't make the drive themselves.

Some people complaining here about me, never even contacted or inquired of me with their complaints. So, it really makes me wonder (based on what they've said that I do know to be outright lies, hearsay, and at best conjecture) if there is any validity or truth to any of what they are stating. From my vantage point, most of what is posted here, is slanted and slander, plain and simple.

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#22 Consumer Comment

So when do they tell the truth?

AUTHOR: Lisa - (U.S.A.)

POSTED: Monday, May 11, 2009

http://www.breederretriever.com/dir/breed-124/chihuahua/state-5/california/
Scroll down.
Find Soto's.
List's Karen as an employee.

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#21 Consumer Comment

And here they go again....

AUTHOR: Anne - (U.S.A.)

POSTED: Tuesday, April 28, 2009

http://contracostatimes.kaango.com/feViewAd/14249423
http://contracostatimes.kaango.com/feViewAd/14065805

Look, Devil's Advocate. The same pups are in both ads and on their webisite. Again, no mention of the Sotos or Chihuahua Dream. Dave and Claudia used to give an eight year health/genetic defect warranty. Now it's only one year, the amount of time you say it takes for the eye problem to show up. Unbelievable.

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#20 Consumer Comment

Comment on you never know what's going to happen

AUTHOR: Devilsadvocate4education*just My Opinions* - (U.S.A.)

POSTED: Thursday, April 16, 2009

And another who got their dog through Karen after the Soto's gave the impression that's not how they do things in http://www.ripoffreport.com/reports/0/319/RipOff0319686.htm.
Nothing in life is a guarantee animals fall ill just like humans you never know what is going to happen. That is true Kerri, and breeder's are often blamed for problems they probably shouldn't be. But in the case of Lisa's pup they DO now know it's going to happen. It came from two dogs who carry the gene for the disease being bred together. Breeding those two together again would be both irresponsible and unethical. We now KNOW they are both carriers. They can't change their genes. This IS truly a genetic/breeding issue and if they were unaware before, they are now and the question is what are they going to do from here. Think, if the dogs are bred once a year and around the same time, your new puppy could be from the same parents if Lisa's pup was born late February years ago. Don't you want to know if that's the case as Lisa's pup may have been diagnosed after the breeding and before they had knowledge of it even with plans not to breed them together again which haven't been confirmed or denied? Many of the genetic eye diseases aren't apparent or detected until later after they've progressed or appeared. It's why CERF's are yearly and not once like many of the other health tests. So, while your statement is correct in many cases, it will not apply to any pups produced by that pairing and possibly any closely related dogs. I put some directions in an earlier post if you'd like to understand a bit more about it. *just my opinions*

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#19 Consumer Comment

I purchaased my dog from Chihuahua Dream and am buying another very happy with them.

AUTHOR: Kerri - (U.S.A.)

POSTED: Thursday, April 16, 2009

I purchased my dog from Chihuahua Dream and am buying another.

I would like to let people know that I have also purchased a dog from Dave and Claudia Soto. I got in touch with Karen after a friend of mine purchased her dog from them. I saw how cute her puppy was and I had to have one. Her dog is also very happy and healthy.

I called Karen and made an appointment to meet her at the ranch and see the puppies available. I purchased a puppy and they were very clear that I could purchase her as a pet or with papers since I won't be breeding her I chose her as a pet. They were very helpful and clear on what I was getting and how to care for her. They explained that there was no such thing as a teacup Chihuahua because that is what I wanted. They answered all of my questions and I now have a very happy healthy puppy who I love very much. They also explained how big they thought she might get but I don't hold them to that because each dog is different. If she gets a little bigger or smaller I wont be mad I am happy with her no matter what size, she is part of our family.

She has been checked out by our vet and said she is fine. I am in he process of purchasing another puppy from them so our little girl can have a playmate. I have set up several different appointments with Karen to go to the ranch and see my new puppy. Each time I have been there both Claudia and Dave have been there. They are kind, honest and very helpful. Their dogs live in a barn NOT a garage and it is a very impressive barn very clean warm and most important the dogs are happy. If the dogs are out when I get there they are always healthy looking, clean and happy. Their dogs also have a lot of room to run around outside the barn on a hillside that is fenced in.

I won't purchase my Chihuahuas from anyone else . I will also refer Chihuahua Dream to anyone who is looking for a Chihuahua. They are wonderful and their staff is great too.

I wanted to share my story with people to get out there that you can contact Chihuahua Dream and you can get a happy healthy puppy. Nothing in life is a guarantee animals fall ill just like humans you never know what is going to happen.

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#18 Consumer Comment

Sent them the link and told them they may want to re-visit

AUTHOR: Devilsadvocate4education*just My Opinions* - (U.S.A.)

POSTED: Tuesday, April 14, 2009

Well, the birth date is here and they should have records and be able to figure it out from there. I have a feeling that once her name shows up Dawn may monitor the reports (she's good with responses) and did not fail to notice that that is when the Soto's responded though that could have been coincidence. I think it would show much if THEY (the Soto's) posted the sire and dam as well as an affirmative that these two will not be paired together again at least, not to mention a bit more. What do their pups actually come with (any sort of paperwork), maybe a chip for easier tracking purposes if they don't provide any info on the sire and dam? I guess every little bit helps. It also might help if others with similar issues posted with any relevant information. I sent them the link through their page and got the confirmation page just to be sure. They should be all over this trying to confirm who not to pair together any longer.

I know it doesn't make you feel any better but the majority of dogs adjust quite well (from birth would be the easiest as they don't know anything else). Like with people, keeping the areas they spend time in the same helps. If you don't tend to keep her on a leash when you go out I'd start raising her comfort level with that now. If she's more of a homebody maybe a little more exposure to different experiences will help with confidence and startling later on. Also, if she's always on the furniture I would start working on that unfortunately, at least if she comes and goes as she pleases. She won't know when it begins and ends and can tumble off (as with stairs), though you may already have her where it's only by manual lift' :-) up and down considering her knees. Also working on some basic commands should come in handy. I found a couple of sites with some tips; (((Redacted)))seems a good one. I also did a google search on support groups for owners with blind pets. Pulled up quite a bit (after not pulling much at all up on different search terms). Maybe meeting' other people who have gone through similar things and what did and did not work for them can help. Maybe it'll give you a head start on how to make the transition a little easier for both of you. At a minimum it's another resource I think. Please keep us posted. *just my opinions*


CLICK here to see why Rip-off Report, as a matter of policy, deleted either a phone number, link or e-mail address from this Report.

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#17 Consumer Comment

The only information I know about my chihuahua

AUTHOR: Lisa - (U.S.A.)

POSTED: Monday, April 13, 2009

I have no paperwork on my girl, so I don't have a clue as to who her mother and father is. I was not breeding or showing her so that was not needed. Although I still would have liked her papers with a limited registration, and a spay contract. The only information I have is my girls birth date. She was born February 28, 2006. She was the only one there when I got her. I saw none of her brothers or sisters (that's if she even had any).

As far as contacting the Soto's. I don't think so. I tried contacting them years ago when she was a puppy, near death and I needed answers. They never called back. I saved her life myself. I paid for all the test to find out what was making her so sick. I was the one that had to get up every couple of hours to try and get her to eat and drink. She could not even drink from a bowl nor did she want to. I had to use a syringe to get liquid (Rebound) down her, and thank God for Nutrical, because that, and mashed up dry and canned dog food, along with Rebound all mixed together is what pulled her through. Along with the meds.


Anyways, I don't have plans yet for when she losses her sight completely. It makes me so very sad that she will not ever see me or the things outside again. I have another appointment with her opthamologist April 28th (her 3rd one) and I will ask the doctor if she has some recommendations. I have seen books on the Internet that I will most likely purchase.

If anyone reading this purchased a chihuahua puppy from the Soto's that has a birth date of February 28, 2006, maybe you should contact the Soto's and see is if your chihuahua is from the same litter as my girl or from the same parents. I would also recommend taking your chihuahua to an opthamologist. Your vet can refer you to one.
Thank you devilsadvocate :)

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#16 Consumer Comment

I sincerely hope that any other 'health' subjects are not due to them actually occuring from here on out

AUTHOR: Devilsadvocate4education*just My Opinions* - (U.S.A.)

POSTED: Thursday, April 09, 2009

First, Lisa I am so sorry for you and your pup. You should drop them an email (if you already haven't) containing all the information you have on the parents or your contract information so they can look it up and hopefully make the appropriate changes to their breeding program as BOTH dogs had to be carriers for your pup to show up with this and as they are now aware those particular lines ARE carriers no dogs related to those dogs should be crossed again. It will also be a true test and indicator to everyone of their breeding practices and ethics (in other words carriers should never be bred with other carriers as it will likely result in effected dogs). Not only they, but other breeder's whom have used their dogs, bought their dogs, or whom they have bought dogs from should be very interested in your problem and identifying the carriers in their line so they can make efforts to avoid it considering how much passing back and forth of lines tends to occur within groups of breeders (No, I am not saying fix them all). Can you say autosomal recessive? As breeder's they should be familiar with this. Maybe it would be helpful if you posted any of the lineage you know? Birth date? Anything? For those that would like to understand this whole gene thing a little better you can visit bregorreyglens dot co dot uk slash pra dot html (different breed but informative and easy to understand I think). They seem to be making leaps and bounds over there in the genetics area (at least with the genetic eye diseases in particular) and have some tests available that we do not have over here at present for some particular diseases and breeds. What do you plan to do next? Any sort of training to prepare her for later or anything?
Perhaps it would be a solution for the Soto's to offer a pedigree or copies of the parents pedigrees (not registration) when a puppy is purchased as a pet but only once proof of spay/neuter has been provided within a certain time period. Maybe that would help reassure some people of their puppy's purebrededness (hehe) after purchase without having to give out any registration papers and still reassuring yourselves that the information can not be used for breeding purposes.
I had noticed some, um, inconsistencies in their responses earlier but on this other report here they say they do not sell their dogs through Karen but Amy got her three dogs from them through her? *just my opinions* http://www.ripoffreport.com/reports/0/319/RipOff0319686.htm

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#15 Consumer Comment

I purchased 3 dogs from Chihuahua Dreams in 2 years.

AUTHOR: Amyp - (U.S.A.)

POSTED: Tuesday, April 07, 2009

I wanted to add my experience with Chihuahua Dreams in order to give a more balanced view of the breeders in question. I purchased 3 dogs from Dave and Claudia Soto, via Karen. I was clear with the Sotos that I wanted pets, not show dogs. Thus, I was never concerned with registration.

My 3rd dog, which I recently bought from Dave and Claudia, had paperwork completed for registration and Claudia gave the papers to me when I arrived, even though I did not ask for them. However, I doubt that I will submit them because I do not intend to breed or show my dog.

My dogs have all been examined by my vet in Berkeley, CA and receive regular care. My vet can attest to the fact that there were no major health issues. (University Vets)

Frankly, I would not consider purchasing my pets from anyone else because all of my animals have wonderful temperaments and personalities. They are admired whenever they do out in public because they're so "good looking". My oldest dog is 1 yr and 9 mos old and weighs a little under 6 lbs, which is standard.

I understand the disappointment of other customers and do not wish to invalidate them.

However, I think it is important that you also include customers who have had positive experiences with Chihuahua Dreams, and have returned as many times as I have because of their service and the quality of their animals.

I am willing to further communicate via email and answer any questions you have.

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#14 Consumer Comment

Update on my dog that I bought from Chihuahua Dream 3 years ago

AUTHOR: Lisa - (U.S.A.)

POSTED: Tuesday, March 31, 2009

Well, if you have read the above post from me you know that I purchased my chihuahua girl 3 years ago from the Soto's. I took my girl to her vet because her eyes were swollen and tearing a lot (allergies). He referred me to a wonderful opthamologist in Fremont to have her eyes checked out. Turns out she is blind in her right eye and has a small optic disc. The doctor thinks she was probably born that way. Also, both of her eyes have have thin retinas, and she has early stages of Progressive Retinal Atrophy, or PRA, in both eyes. She will eventually be completely blind. PRA is hereditary and is passed along to offspring. The reason I am writing this is to warn anyone that has bought a puppy from Chihuahua Dream or is going to buy a puppy from Chihuahua Dream, to keep in mind that they breed their dogs without testing them or they know their breeding dogs have this and breed them anyways. If you are buying a puppy make sure you ask if the parents have had a CERF test and an OFA test.

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#13 REBUTTAL Owner of company

CKC registration for Mick and Megan in Sebastopol, CA

AUTHOR: Chihuahua Dream - (U.S.A.)

POSTED: Wednesday, March 04, 2009

Just because you don't receive papers for a dog doesn't mean you didn't buy a purebred dog. Our contract and our website clearly states that if you are buying one of our dogs as a PET you DO NOT get AKC papers or CKC papers with that dog. It's very clear cut and is in the first sentence of the contract. It is also mentioned several times when the puppy is being purchased that you will not get papers unless you are intending on showing or you are an AKC/CKC recognized breeder. When Megan took her puppy Vittorio home, she signed this contract showing she was not getting registration on the dog. If Sunshine claimed CKC was going to be given then she informed Megan wrong. For these kind of disagreements this individual is no longer a part of Chihuahua Dream. When we are not available we do not allow tours of our kennel but we don't know why she refused to show you the parents of your boy. Vittorio is a gorgeous blue merle boy son of our Victor who is a fantastic AKC blue and tan Chihuahua, the son of a Grand Champion long haired Chihuahua who belongs to a Veterinarian overseas and who flew into the U.S just to sire the litter were Victor was born. The best and most expensive bloodline we have. We paid thousands of dollars for the rights to that bloodline, if a descendant of that gorgeous Chihuahua goes with registration it will be ONLY for shows or to an AKC approved Breeder. We have to respect our own contract for that particular bloodline.

We are not obligated to give the registration numbers for the Sire and the Dam for any of our puppies sold as Pets without AKC/CKC. Giving those numbers is like passing out your social security number to any passing stranger that comes along, with those numbers any one can registrar a litter under the name of our dogs. When you contacted us by email asking for registration we went to check the contract that you signed and as we supposed it said no registration. Suspecting that you may have been misinformed by our ex-assistant, we offered to see if the other partners that we share this expensive bloodline with would be willing to accept CKC papers issued to our Victor, first generation of that Grand Champion; to be able to go from there so that you could have CKC registration and feel secure about your gorgeous purebred dog. We know that many people who don't understand the breed sometimes look at the blue merle as a mix. So you may be tired of justifying that you own a purebred Chihuahua. As we said at that time when you contacted us IF we were going to be able to issue CKC for Vittorio we needed time to be able to work through this because we were not the only ones involved in this decision. Anyways, you did not purchase the rights for the breeding privileges and even with CKC papers he still will be a Pet. His mom has her CKC that is the reason why we haven't mentioned her; it's his dad the EXPENSIVE COOKIE, the blueblood of the Chihuahua breed that is causing the delay. Even if our partners agreed it would still take time to CKC registrar our Victor and THEN your Vittorio. The vote has to be a unanimous decision in order for us to be able to make an exception. We have never stopped working for Vittorio to get his CKC. And we never will. We are pretty confident we will get it done!!! This is and will be the ONLY time we are willing to make an exception to get registration for a Chihuahua adopted as a Pet without registration. Thank You.

Dave and Claudia Soto

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#12 Consumer Suggestion

Be careful, know what your buying, ask questions...

AUTHOR: Anne - (U.S.A.)

POSTED: Thursday, February 12, 2009

Thank you, Devilsadvocate4education. You've made some very good points and your info is useful. In my case though, it's not about getting my money back or taking them to court. It's wishing not to have gone through the anguish of watching a little one suffer or be close to death. There's no need for people to have their happiness turned into panic. I think the Sotos are running a profitable business. I've heard they sell (or used to sell) 20-30 dogs per month. Most buyers coming from Karen's ad in the San Jose Mercury on-line. The ad does not state the Sotos or "Chihuahua Dream". So, yes..a little misleading. The puppies are usually priced high even though the ad says "$250 and up", (think way up). It dawns on me that she may be selling puppies that 'reputable breeders' can't or won't sell due to defects or mix breeding or whatever. A worthy thing since all puppies need good homes, even the not so perfect. However, if this were the case, disclosure of problems or issues would be nice, and pups should be sold at discounted prices...which is probably what was paid for them. Sad.

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#11 Consumer Comment

Are they lying?

AUTHOR: Devilsadvocate4education*just My Opinions* - (U.S.A.)

POSTED: Wednesday, February 11, 2009

Yes, I went and looked it up, and I think it said AKC is about to start charging like $500 deposit to DNA check that your puppy is the puppy of the parents, you get it back if you're right, but not if you're wrong. I THINK. Anyone interested can check the site. Maybe too many people are asking for the test and the parents end up being the parents as stated. Maybe they see a way to make more income :-). I really think these DNA tests are a joke, either COMPLETELY inaccurate or picking up things from forever and ever ago or something, but the same company, MMI something, that does the tests for AKC, does a what breed is it thing for $120 or so. I would imagine if you can prove they falsely represented the breed, you could do something. Wouldn't this also amount to something like theft by deception or something? You would probably be able to get some or allot of your money back. Also, were the dogs being represented as being bred by the Soto's, on the premises, ect? You can try sending an email to the FTC. Make sure it is as detailed as possible, with any information you have about them (website address, phone number ect.), and what they are advertising which isn't quite truthful. Like if they are representing puppies for sale as bred by them, but when you get your puppy it wasn't, that's deceptive. Like if they say visitors are always welcome, but they never let people visit, that's misleading. If someone puts up a picture of a house and says that's where the dogs live, but they don't, that's misleading. If they say their dogs are outside all day, but you know they're not, that's a lie. If they say there are only a few dogs in the home, but there are truckloads, that's a lie. If they say their dogs are only kenneled occasionally and only under certain circumstances and their not, it's a lie. And they would all be lies directed at gaining sales IMO. And it may be theft by deception if they are lying in order to gain your money. See. Some of this might depend on how long ago you bought your dog and the limitations. And there is a question of whether or not they are selling enough to be running an actual business out of the place, and whether they are appropriately licensed for that if so. There are definantly some options when someone is intentionally misleading the public in an effort to make sales, I think. *just my opinions*

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#10 Consumer Suggestion

My AKC papers don't list the Soto's or Dawn as the breeder!

AUTHOR: Anne - (U.S.A.)

POSTED: Wednesday, February 11, 2009

My dog was sick too! My vet also says he's got a bad underbite. He was so cute when I saw him that I didn't think of looking at his teeth. I wish I would have been told about possible defects or medical conditions before I was given the puppy to take home. My friend bought a chihuahua puppy from a different breeder, and it didn't have giardia or coccidia or anything. I paid Chihuahua Dream top dollar for my supposedly purebred boy (which was a lot more than people are paying for chihuhuas these days ). The AKC reg paper I was given states the breeder is someone from out of state. (?!) Since then, AKC has not been able to locate the breeder or validate lineage, so the papers are void. Someone told me that "Karen" goes to auctions up north and brings back "truckloads" of puppies to re-sell in CA at high prices. She's definitely the broker, but I don't know why the Sotos allow her to sell other people's dogs from their home as Chihuahua Dream puppies. I have also heard that Dave and Claudia are never home because their true residence is in LA (which is where all the parents of the puppies are kept). BTW, AKC DNA testing is costly. I don't think anyone should have to spend more on top of what they paid for a pup to verify that it's pure bred. Buyer beware...all I have to say really.

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#9 Consumer Comment

Some of the California puppy lemon laws which apply to breeders

AUTHOR: Devilsadvocate4education*just My Opinions* - (U.S.A.)

POSTED: Wednesday, February 11, 2009

Polanco-Lockyer Pet Breeder Warranty Act is also a good search term. Please research this yourself before taking any action. They change, and I am not including every single detail, and some is interpretation. It is not exact. It is not copy and pasted. To go through all of it would take days, and pages and pages. I am going to focus on the rules for breeders right now. There are different regulations for different types of seller's. Who knows, some of these folks may be classified as dealer's or pet shops.
Health and safety code 122045-122110. - Every breeder of dogs shall comply with this article. A breeder or dog breeder means a seller that has sold, transferred, or given away all or part of three or more litters or 20 or more dogs during the preceding 12 months that were bred and reared on the premises of the seller. A purchaser is any person whom purchases a dog from a breeder. This article does not apply to some things such as pounds, private rescues, and those defined by other means.

122050 Purchaser's must receive in writing: Breeder's name and address, and USDA number when applicable. Date of birth and date received. If the animal is not a purebred, the date of birth may be approximated if not known by the breeder. (I am confused by this last part a bit, how can a breeder not know the birthdate, and how could they receive a dog born on their premises?). The breed (if unknown or mixed, this should be indicated), sex, color, identifying marks (if any), and USDA info if applicable. If the dog is being sold as registerable, litter number, and names and registration numbers of sire and dam, if known. If any vaccinations or wormings have been administered, a record including dates and types. A record of any treatment provided by a veterinarian, and/or any medications given.
A seller must provide either a signed statement that the dog has no known disease or illness, the dog has no known congenital or hereditary condition that is detrimental to the health of the dog at the time of the sale or that is likely to adversely affect the health of the dog in the future. And/or, a record of any illness, diseases, or hereditary congenital condition which may affect the health of the animal in the future, along with a signed statement from a veterinarian that says it is okay to sell the animal, that hospitalization and/or non-elective surgery will most likely not be necessary in the future, and any recommended or necessary treatments. I believe the seller must also verbally inform. Such a statement must be signed by purchaser and seller. A statement from a veterinarian is not required for internal or external parasites unless the animal is clinically ill. This statement is valid for 7 days following examination by a veterinarian. Personal note: A signed, recent, individual vet check (just a basic physical exam) on each puppy provided at the time of sale is good for everyone. Whether or not it is state law. Everyone keeps a copy. You are informed of any possible physical issues, and the breeder has proof they informed you. A buyer would be wise to ask for something like this, even if the puppy is receiving a health certificate for shipping, as a health certificate verifies no obvious signs of contagious illness or disease at the time of examination (they also do not need to be shipped IMMEDIATELY after the exam to my knowledge), and rabies vaccination if old enough. Not physical issues like umbilical hernia's (not a big deal usually, but good to know) and such, whether minor or otherwise. There are penalties for a breeder whom does not provide these particular items in a written statement I believe.

122055 The breeder must keep a written record on health, status, and disposition of each dog, including the information the breeder is required to disclose from 122050 for no less than a year after transfer.

122060 Except as noted in 122050, a breeder may not sell a dog which they know is diseased, ill or has a condition, any one of which that requires
hospitalization or non elective surgical procedures.


Remedies
(122095 A breeder may contest the demand)
122070 If within 15 days of possession after the sale, a veterinarian states in writing that the dog has become ill due to any illness or disease that existed in the dog on or before delivery of the dog to the purchaser, or, if within one year after the purchaser has taken physical possession of the dog after the sale by a breeder, a veterinarian licensed in this state states in writing that the dog has a congenital or hereditary condition that is detrimental to the health of the dog, or that requires, or is likely in the future to require, hospitalization or non elective surgical procedures, the dog shall be considered unfit for sale. The purchaser may elect one of the following: To return the dog to the breeder for a refund of the purchase price, plus sales tax, and reimbursement for REASONABLE veterinary fees for diagnosis and treating the dog in an amount not to exceed the original purchase price of the dog, including sales tax. To exchange the dog for a dog of the purchaser's choice of equivalent value, providing a replacement dog is available, and receive reimbursement for REASONABLE veterinary fees for diagnosis and treating the dog in an amount not to exceed the original purchase price of the dog, plus sales tax on the original purchase price. To retain the dog, and receive reimbursement for REASONABLE veterinary fees for diagnosis and treating the dog in an amount not to exceed 150 percent of the original purchase price of the dog, plus sales tax. (If the dog was $600 plus sales tax, the total would be $900, plus the sales tax on the $600)
If the dog has died, the purchaser may: obtain a refund for the purchase price of the dog, plus sales tax, or a replacement dog of equivalent value of the purchaser's choice, and reimbursement for REASONABLE veterinary fees for
diagnosis and treatment of the dog in an amount not to exceed the purchase price of the dog, plus sales tax provided that; A veterinarian, licensed California, states in writing that the dog has died due to an illness or disease that existed within 15 days after the purchaser took possession of the dog from the seller, or that the dog has died due to a congenital or hereditary condition that was diagnosed by the veterinarian within one year after the purchaser obtained physical possession of the dog after the sale by a breeder. (122090 has the requirements for the vet letters)

122075 - There shall be a disputable presumption that an illness existed at the time of sale if the animal dies within 15 days of delivery to the purchaser) Personal note Always have a necropsy done which shows a DIFINITIVE cause of death any time you intend to attempt to hold someone else responsible for the death. If this includes more testing to find a definitive cause, it is wise to do so. Internal or external parasites are not grounds for declaring a dog unfit for sale unless their presence makes the dog clinically ill or is likely to make the dog clinically ill.
Reasonable vet fees are those that are considered to be appropriate for the diagnosis and treatment of illness or congenital or hereditary condition made by the veterinarian and the value of the services is comparable to the value of similar services by other licensed vets in the area.
In order to avail yourself of the above remedies (122070), you must:
Notify the breeder as soon as possible but no later than within five days of the diagnosis by a veterinarian licensed in California of a medical or health problem, including a congenital or hereditary condition and of the contact information for your veterinarian making the diagnosis.- Return the dog to the breeder, in the case of illness or congenital or hereditary condition, along with a written statement from a veterinarian licensed in California, stating the dog to be unfit for purchase due to illness, a congenital or hereditary condition, or the presence of symptoms of a contagious or infectious disease, that existed on or before the purchase of the dog and that adversely affects the health of the dog. The dog is to be returned along with a copy of the veterinarian's statement as soon as possible but no later than five days of receipt of the veterinarian's statement. - In the event of a death, provide to the breeder a written statement from a veterinarian licensed in California stating that the dog died from an illness that existed on or before the sale (possession) of the dog to the purchaser (this might require a necropsy, I don't think speculation will cut it). This statement should be sufficient proof to claim reimbursement or replacement (no body required to be returned to the breeder).

122085 Conditions on remedies. Explains stuff that you must or must not do to be eligible for the above stated remedies, and what sort of things do not qualify, pretty much.

I think that about sums it up. One of the good places I use to find the lemon laws is born free usa, it gives the codes for further look up. *just my opinions*

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#8 Consumer Comment

This is becoming quite the educational post I think, LOL

AUTHOR: Devilsadvocate4education*just My Opinions* - (U.S.A.)

POSTED: Wednesday, February 11, 2009

Lisa, I am glad your vet has enough experience and is not a 'surgery hound'. You would not BELIEVE some of the things I have seen some of them do, I'd LOL, but it is sooooo not funny. Sometimes it's what I call a 'god complex', and sometimes it's just not their area of expertise, and sometimes, it is a $$ thing I think. They can't know everything, geeze. Medicine is as much experience and opinion as it is science, and not enough people realize that. Even though most of my vets are friends as well, I still take everyone's opinions and reasoning (as well as their 'style' of practice) into consideration before I do anything I am not as familiar with as I'd like to be (and they also ask my opinions on things as well). I also do my own research. And I have found cross-referencing the same things in humans is EXTREMELY useful. Our dogs can't tell us who, what, when, where. This is how we know giardia can show up in a day, or even two or 3 weeks. So, a breeder can dispute a later positive result, but not as easy on a sooner one ;-). Later on, there are too many options. Yes, you seem very well informed, and yes, I believe it came from the kennel, but it appears we are both also attempting to inform others while talking about the issue at hand :-). Yep, I think rebound is great and definantly not used anywhere near enough. And they seem to really like it, unlike a lot of supplements.
The teacup thing, one of my BIGGEST pet peeves. Unfortunately, we DON'T all know it does not actually exist (and now there are things like the term pocket????). It is kind of a "shame on you both" type deal to me. It doesn't take much time or work to find it out and buyers don't do that. And these breeder's DO know it doesn't exist (or it's yet another reason they have no business breeding, since they clearly don't know enough), and use it for sales. GRRR. I truly believe it is an indication of their ethics. Okay, the term is common now, but EXPLAIN somewhere, both that there is no such thing, and the extra care and adult issues with the tiny size. If I don't see that, I don't trust them. They are capitalizing on the thing to make more $$ most of the time, and therefore not an ETHICAL breeder, IMO. Folks, if after learning about all the problems in a tiny dog (you now not only face breed issues, common pet issues, but now tiny dog issues as well), you still want one, do not purchase from someone who uses that frickin' teacup word (or other terms) too enthusiastically. If you call and the first thing you ask about their tea-cup' dogs, and they do not immediately explain, FORGET IT. If they do not explain all the extra problems, extra care, and the shortened life span, FORGET IT. If they do not ask if you have children, and explain the extra complications, FORGET IT. Among all the other things a breeder should want to know about the potential homes for their puppies. Also, you have a better chance with a slightly older puppy (there are actually several benefits to this). Dogs throw several generations back, so sire and dam are not always the best indicator of adult size. ALSO, do the dang liver shunt test right away. Make sure it isn't a health problem (which is now entirely too common thanks to the whole tea-cup phenomenon) which is making that puppy so tiny. See if they have any sort of size guarantee, preferably one which does not require you to return your pet (some actually do, but your pet can not be the SLIGHTEST bit overweight, which tends to happen a lot in chihuahua's. The doxy looking chihuahuas? I've seen PLENTY of them, and they were actual chihuahua's (steps taken because of that very thing). Just not standard, or the picture we have in our heads. They also tend to be larger, usually the 7 or 8 pounds and up full grown. I think it's a throwback to earlier genes in the breed (like if crested's really were used, they tend to be longer in the body and tend to have that type of face, ect.). After seeing literally thousands of chihuahua's so far, several of which were DNA'd because they didn't look' like the Chihuahua standard, I truly believe they are one of the most versatile breeds when it comes to looks. There are HUGE variations in coat, color, body type, and size. It really amazes me, LOL. The problem is a lot of these new DNA tests and companies can be a complete joke. If you go to you tube and watch 4a4CDvK868w, you can see what happens during one of these. The results are hilarious. Not the only one. So, the company must be reliable :-). I am not saying it is the case here, because I am really starting to wonder about this group, and since they apparently sell mutts too
It does seem that they are all heavily involved. I read your question on the other post (In one of her responses, Dawn says Sunshine and Whisper are her daughter's) read this one, others flashed through my head, and it all clicked. Dawn seems to respond to her complaints though I am also wondering if they sell only dogs that they themselves breed. Don't they live in California? This can be good news for anyone who has purchased a puppy with problems from them. California has the strictest puppy lemon laws right now (I don't believe they are actually fair to the seller or quite reasonable all the time, in every situation, but they can come in handy). I am going to post the lemon laws separately I think, since this one ended up being so long (common occurrence for me :-), it's hard, if not impossible, for me to just say something and not explain it, or try to be fair to everyone involved, animals and their situations tend to be complicated, with a lot of options and possibilities). *just my opinions*

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#7 Consumer Comment

In response to devilsadvocate

AUTHOR: Lisa - (U.S.A.)

POSTED: Tuesday, February 10, 2009

My girl weighs 3 pounds and turns 3 years old 2/28. She has a grade 1 on her left knee and a grade 2 on the right. Surgery is not needed now, but as she ages it could very well be a possibility. Yes, my vet is familiar with the chihuahua breed and LP's. As for the Coccidia, it comes from fecal-contaminated ground. They are swallowed when a pet grooms/licks the dirt off itself. Coccidia infection is especially common in young animals housed in groups (in shelters, rescue areas, kennels, etc.) This is a common parasite and is not necessarily a sign of poor husbandry. Giardia is found in the feces of infected animals or humans. To become infected, an animal must consume contaminated food or water. It takes about seven to ten days after the organism is ingested, sometimes shorter or longer for symptoms to appear. The only reason my girl became hypoglycemic is because she had the Coccidia and Giardia. She simply had to much going on in her little body. She was to sick to eat or drink much, and she became very dehydrated. Rebound worked great for dehydration. She has NEVER had a hypoglycemic episode since. Thank God. I do know for CERTAIN that it was an OUTBREAK in the breeders kennel. Let's just say I had received inside information from a reliable source, and I will leave it at that. We all know that a 'teacup' chihuahua does not exist, but there are people and breeders that like to use that term. I do however think that if you are representing a puppy as a 'teacup' that it should remain on the smaller side of the chihuahua weight requirements, which is 2-6 pounds. If you know your breeding lines than you can make that call pretty accurately. If you do not feel comfortable estimating a size than don't represent that puppy as a 'teacup' to try and fool unsuspecting buyers into paying more for that puppy. Chihuahua dream did do that and that is why my sisters 'teacup' chihuahua that she paid A LOT more money for is now a whopping 10 pounds! As for the people saying they think their dogs are mixes, they might be right. I looked at their website often in the past and was shocked to see some of the puppies for sale. Some did look like mixes. Dachshund mixes maybe? Purebred chihuahuas do not have long noses and long bodies. I do not know a Sunshine personally, but I have searched and found that Dawn Dalyce from sns chihuahua, Whisper, Sunshine, Claudia Smith/Soto from love4life rescue, Claudia and Dave Soto from chihuahua dream and Karen are all involved in some way. From past post and others I have talked to it seems, to me anyways, that it is a big puppy business not a hobby breeder breeding for the betterment of the chihuahua breed. Just my opinion. Maybe this information will help someone, or not. Anyways, thanks for your comments devilsadvocate4eduacation! :)

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#6 Consumer Comment

In response to devilsadvocate

AUTHOR: Lisa - (U.S.A.)

POSTED: Tuesday, February 10, 2009

My girl weighs 3 pounds and turns 3 years old 2/28. She has a grade 1 on her left knee and a grade 2 on the right. Surgery is not needed now, but as she ages it could very well be a possibility. Yes, my vet is familiar with the chihuahua breed and LP's. As for the Coccidia, it comes from fecal-contaminated ground. They are swallowed when a pet grooms/licks the dirt off itself. Coccidia infection is especially common in young animals housed in groups (in shelters, rescue areas, kennels, etc.) This is a common parasite and is not necessarily a sign of poor husbandry. Giardia is found in the feces of infected animals or humans. To become infected, an animal must consume contaminated food or water. It takes about seven to ten days after the organism is ingested, sometimes shorter or longer for symptoms to appear. The only reason my girl became hypoglycemic is because she had the Coccidia and Giardia. She simply had to much going on in her little body. She was to sick to eat or drink much, and she became very dehydrated. Rebound worked great for dehydration. She has NEVER had a hypoglycemic episode since. Thank God. I do know for CERTAIN that it was an OUTBREAK in the breeders kennel. Let's just say I had received inside information from a reliable source, and I will leave it at that. We all know that a 'teacup' chihuahua does not exist, but there are people and breeders that like to use that term. I do however think that if you are representing a puppy as a 'teacup' that it should remain on the smaller side of the chihuahua weight requirements, which is 2-6 pounds. If you know your breeding lines than you can make that call pretty accurately. If you do not feel comfortable estimating a size than don't represent that puppy as a 'teacup' to try and fool unsuspecting buyers into paying more for that puppy. Chihuahua dream did do that and that is why my sisters 'teacup' chihuahua that she paid A LOT more money for is now a whopping 10 pounds! As for the people saying they think their dogs are mixes, they might be right. I looked at their website often in the past and was shocked to see some of the puppies for sale. Some did look like mixes. Dachshund mixes maybe? Purebred chihuahuas do not have long noses and long bodies. I do not know a Sunshine personally, but I have searched and found that Dawn Dalyce from sns chihuahua, Whisper, Sunshine, Claudia Smith/Soto from love4life rescue, Claudia and Dave Soto from chihuahua dream and Karen are all involved in some way. From past post and others I have talked to it seems, to me anyways, that it is a big puppy business not a hobby breeder breeding for the betterment of the chihuahua breed. Just my opinion. Maybe this information will help someone, or not. Anyways, thanks for your comments devilsadvocate4eduacation! :)

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#5 Consumer Comment

In response to devilsadvocate

AUTHOR: Lisa - (U.S.A.)

POSTED: Tuesday, February 10, 2009

My girl weighs 3 pounds and turns 3 years old 2/28. She has a grade 1 on her left knee and a grade 2 on the right. Surgery is not needed now, but as she ages it could very well be a possibility. Yes, my vet is familiar with the chihuahua breed and LP's. As for the Coccidia, it comes from fecal-contaminated ground. They are swallowed when a pet grooms/licks the dirt off itself. Coccidia infection is especially common in young animals housed in groups (in shelters, rescue areas, kennels, etc.) This is a common parasite and is not necessarily a sign of poor husbandry. Giardia is found in the feces of infected animals or humans. To become infected, an animal must consume contaminated food or water. It takes about seven to ten days after the organism is ingested, sometimes shorter or longer for symptoms to appear. The only reason my girl became hypoglycemic is because she had the Coccidia and Giardia. She simply had to much going on in her little body. She was to sick to eat or drink much, and she became very dehydrated. Rebound worked great for dehydration. She has NEVER had a hypoglycemic episode since. Thank God. I do know for CERTAIN that it was an OUTBREAK in the breeders kennel. Let's just say I had received inside information from a reliable source, and I will leave it at that. We all know that a 'teacup' chihuahua does not exist, but there are people and breeders that like to use that term. I do however think that if you are representing a puppy as a 'teacup' that it should remain on the smaller side of the chihuahua weight requirements, which is 2-6 pounds. If you know your breeding lines than you can make that call pretty accurately. If you do not feel comfortable estimating a size than don't represent that puppy as a 'teacup' to try and fool unsuspecting buyers into paying more for that puppy. Chihuahua dream did do that and that is why my sisters 'teacup' chihuahua that she paid A LOT more money for is now a whopping 10 pounds! As for the people saying they think their dogs are mixes, they might be right. I looked at their website often in the past and was shocked to see some of the puppies for sale. Some did look like mixes. Dachshund mixes maybe? Purebred chihuahuas do not have long noses and long bodies. I do not know a Sunshine personally, but I have searched and found that Dawn Dalyce from sns chihuahua, Whisper, Sunshine, Claudia Smith/Soto from love4life rescue, Claudia and Dave Soto from chihuahua dream and Karen are all involved in some way. From past post and others I have talked to it seems, to me anyways, that it is a big puppy business not a hobby breeder breeding for the betterment of the chihuahua breed. Just my opinion. Maybe this information will help someone, or not. Anyways, thanks for your comments devilsadvocate4eduacation! :)

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#4 Consumer Comment

Just wanted to add my comments

AUTHOR: Devilsadvocate4education*just My Opinions* - (U.S.A.)

POSTED: Monday, February 09, 2009

I did manage to get to the breeder's site. To the OP, it says that family pets that are to be fixed are not generally sold with papers as they believe they are only necessary when the intention is to show or breed. Also, the price is usually different when that is your intention. Alot of breeder's charge more when they are also selling rights, some people try to get out of paying for rights or try to pay less, by saying that the animal is to be a pet, when their intention is to breed. I am not saying this was the case with you, but this could be a breeder's way of trying to outfox those that try to outfox them. Some also wait to send the papers until a spay or neuter certificate from a vet is provided from the buyer, to show they upheld their agreement.
To Anne's comment - How do you know your chihuahua is not purebred? Have you done the DNA testing through AKC since you have the papers? Alot of the Dna tests are extremely unreliable, but you can check that the parents are the parents through AKC I believe. And if they aren't, there could be some problems for the breeder. I also believe the lab they use is pretty reliable. You only say he is 8 pounds. Tea-cup (no such thing) apple head is a description, not a breed. Not meeting standard does not mean not purebred. Just means they can't show or aren't likely to win shows.
To Lisa's comment - Sunshine. Isn't that Dawn's daughter? Not a common name. I think they at least know each other very well, if not actually doing business together. So, coccidia and giardia. Very common. Stress levels can cause a puppy to have active coccidia (like a change in enviroment). Giardia can be gotten from just about anywhere, at any time, and can show up within a day of exposure or longer. Pretty much the only way to prove without a doubt that a puppy arrived from a breeder with these issues and did not contract them after arrival is to have the puppy examined and fecal tested within 24 hours of new ownership. The sooner the better. We should all make this common practice when purchasing a puppy. As far as hypoglycemia, unless it is due to a liver shunt or some similar underlying condition or problem, it is usually a matter of care, and rarely is attributed to the breeder, as they are not in control of monitering the puppies food and supplement intake any longer. Hypoglycemic emergencies are most common in new parents unfamiliar with the condition and the extra care (and vitamins) a tiny puppy needs, and when they need them. A puppy can go 'hypo' even in the care of an experienced caregiver, though they know the signs and 'treatment', until they figure out how that particular puppy works. My little yorkie used to have hypo episodes just from going from one end of the house to the other until he was about 6 months old. There was NOTHING wrong with him (ran every test we could think of, multiple times), and it was NOBODY'S fault. Just how he worked. Not a single episode since then, and he's very busy. Most recent blood tests and x-rays show him to be healther than most dogs half his age (he's ten now). He just had to grow up. But in other hands, he very well may not have made it past that point. I'm glad your girl did too :-). What grade are the LP's? Very common, and do not always require surgery. Have you consulted with numerous vets whom are familiar with both chihuahua's and LP's? Opinions can vary greatly. Can occur over time, aggrivated/caused by certain activities, excessive weight, and can even be caused by trauma. Sometimes the surgery can cause more pain and discomfort for your pet (and can also lead to more surgeries, and can cause arthritis as well) than not doing the surgery, simple weight management and limiting jumping and such. Unless severe, surgery is not always necessarily reccomended in the small dogs. I also have a dog (a cavalier) with a mild LP (14 pounds), common in the breed, and was told by several vets, some whom are friends, not to do a surgery, and he would most likely never need it.

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#3 Consumer Comment

My sister and I purchased two chihuahuas back in 2006 from Dave and Claudia Soto

AUTHOR: Lisa - (U.S.A.)

POSTED: Sunday, February 08, 2009

May 2006 my sister and I bought two chihuahuas from Dave and Claudia Soto after responding to their newspaper ad and looking on their website. I actually met Dave and Claudia Soto in person after work. I told Claudia which puppy I was interested in and she and Dave had her waiting along with some other puppies for me to see when I got there. I did not see the parents but I did not ask to see them. I know, very stupid, but I now know better.

Anyways, all the puppies looked healthy and well taken care of. There was another puppy that I was interested in. I asked Claudia to see her and she went into the house and brought her out. She was 8 weeks old and very very tiny. I put a deposit on her and left. I came back a week later on May 5th to pick her up. While I was there my sister purchased the chihuahua I was originally going to get. My sisters puppy was listed as a "teacup" she is now a 10 pound chihuahua with Luxating Patellas in both knees. About a week after having my little girl I woke up to see her having a seizure. I quickly called Dave and Claudia and they immediately met me by my house and we rushed her over to the vet that they use. I have continued to use that vet. Anyways, the vet gave her Karo syrup and she was fine. Dave and Claudia paid for that office visit.

A few days later I had to rush her to the emergency vet because she was falling over when she would stand. The ER vet took her to the back room and gave me a few thousand dollar estimate. My girl was doing good by now at the ER so I declined and said I will take her to her vet in the morning. I paid the $100.00 bill and left. My vet tested her for Coccidia which she had. He gave her the meds but she was still very sick. She would not eat or drink. She had runny poop with blood. She was near death and the meds were not working. She then was tested for Giardia which she also had. He gave me the meds for that and she little by little started to do better. It took a long time to get her better. My vet tells me how lucky she is to be alive. He said that her being so tiny, only 11 ounces, and having Coccidia, Giardia and becoming hypoglycemic because she was not eating or drinking that she should have died.

I tried calling Dave during this process but they never called back. I gave up on them. My girl is doing great now. Except for the luxating patellas that will require surgery in the future. My sisters puppy also had Giardia. Back in 2006 I think that they kept their dogs in a huge barn on their property across form their house. I remember Claudia coming from there holding something in a towel when I went to pick up my girl. Claudia did mention to be about a Dawn. She said that she was her "mentor". Dawn owns sns chihuahua. I never received paperwork for mine or my sisters dogs, but I did not ask for them considering I wasn't going to breed them.

A few years later I answered an ad in the Mercury newspaper for chihuahua puppies. Her name was Karen. I asked to see the puppies and she told me she had to drive from Santa Cruz to meet me in San Jose where the puppies are. She explained that she worked for Dave and Claudia Soto. Once I heard that I declined.
Their website www.chihuahuadream.com is down as of 02/02/2009. I have tried to go to it but I can't. Maybe it's just my computer?
I had a bad experience. Claudia was so sweet when I took home my little girl. She gave her a kiss and even teared up when saying goodbye. It makes me sad to think they are a puppymill and that Karen is their puppy broker.
This was just my experience with Dave and Claudia Soto.

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#2 Consumer Suggestion

My dog was sold to me by Chihuahua Dream as pure breed but is a mix

AUTHOR: Anne - (U.S.A.)

POSTED: Saturday, January 31, 2009

Chihuahua Dream in San Jose sold me a dog with false AKC papers. "Karen" said he was a "tea cup apple head" but is now over 8 lbs. I've noticed that some of their dogs are advertised as pure breed and then later advertised as mixed breed. Most likely, your baby is not pure bred. Good luck getting a refund.

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#1 Consumer Comment

No registration does not mean not purebred

AUTHOR: Me - (U.S.A.)

POSTED: Sunday, January 11, 2009

Yes, you should have gotten your papers. You can try small claims court to get some money back I suppose, if you have proof you were absolutely supposed to recieve CKC papers (like the ad or something from the website or in your paperwork). Make sure you read ALL your paperwork first though, to ensure it soes not say the puppy is unregistered or they have a time period. You could also look into deceptive practices if you are really ticked. Stuff like that. Check the lemon laws in her/your state, alot of them address registration, and what must be provided. If the CKC you are speaking of, is Continental Kennel Club, you can also go to the site and attempt to register your puppy yourself. Witnesses and pictures I believe. Or you can just go there for more information ;-). They are not generally known as a particularly difficult registry.

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