Puppy and Kitty Nursery: puppy mill liars, Sold us a sick and dying dog, they take no responsibility! *Consumer Suggestion

I have worked for the largo location of Puppy & Kitty Nursery for almost 4 years and have 4 dogs from them which to this day have had absolutely no health problems whatsoever. The problem is that people don't do their homework, and people don't follow the rules. THere is a giant sign that clearly states "you must sanitize your hands before petting and in between each puppy" and yet 90% of people (most of them adults) forget how to read and thus walk from cage to cage spreading germs. The same situation as a daycare, almost 100% of the time if one kid gets sick at least one other in the same daycare will get sick because of it. Our store has never ever given directions to dispense meds to a puppy by law we are not allowed to. When a puppy is taken to the vet if you clearly know the pup is sick then why would you leave without voicing your concern about not getting the meds you think are needed. Every breed of dog is prone to certain health problems and if you don't do your homework then well that's obviously a risk you're willing to take. So instead of slamming bad reports against a place of business that you chose to go toand buy a puppy spur of the moment cuz you thought it was cute, you should have done your homework. The logical reason vet bills were not reimbersed for the chihuahua is that well hello the owners let the condition go on for what, almost two months. They couldn't have been that concerned if they did nothing but wait til the dog died. I'm sorry for your loss but hey some people don't deserve to be pet owners. So before you form a negative opinion about a store, get off your butt and go to it yourself. It is absolutely ridiculous to go off one person's bad experience.

Jamey, this problem cannot be stressed enough.

I can not believe how many people still buy from pet stores.

Look up puppy mills on the internet. It will make you sick.

EVERY pet store gives the same old song and dance routine about "we get all our puppies from reputable local breeders" Bull $*#@. Reputable breeders do not sell to pet stores.

Then they pull out the "I can't tell you who the breeders are because of privacy issues" More bull&^@*!

To the person who was going to buy a Golden Retriever for what outrageous price you said,you can pick up any newspaper and find them for a couple of hundred dollars. If you want to show, go to a show breeder, the price will still be less than what the pet store wants, and will more likely be in better health.

We bought our wonderful little Linus the Poo Bear Cockapoo from the Puppy & Kitty Nursery in Valrico, FL. We had a wonderful experience! The store was immaculate, and customers had to sanitize their hands before touching each animal. The store provided us with all of Linus's records and he saw their vet before being released to our care. Our little Linus will be four in February, and he is a complete joy!!!!!!!! I can't say enough about the Puppy & Kitty Nursery in Valrico, FL. We're very grateful to them for adding Linus to our family!!!

The person who wrote all the kind and complimentary words about Puppy Kitty nursery is obviously a fake who is doing damage control.
Probably the owner.

Of course they buy dogs from puppy mills!
I agree with the guy who says to get them from homeless animal shelters. It's a shame that these places even exist.

Not enough has been done to expose this abuse and put the culprits out of business.

I hope that Suzy put you out of business for selling her that poor sick dog that died!!!!!

Information on stopping the sale of sick animals can be found at: http://www.kindplanet.org. This organization based in California has had some success in pushing for prosecution of pet stores selling sick animals.

I, too, would like to know the names, physical addresses and license numbers of the REPUTABLE breeders from which Puppy and Kitty Nurseries (or any other pet store) obtain their puppies. I know of no reputable breeder that will sell their puppies to ANY pet store. I DO know that a puppy mill will be MORE than happy to sell their puppies to anyone who is willing to pay...

I will never understand why anyone would buy a puppy from a pet store. There are reputable breeders in abundance for every conceivable breed of dog. Why would anyone take a chance on a puppy from a pet store where there are no parents on the premises and no verifiable method of tracing the dog's breeding?

There are also hundreds of thousands of dogs sitting in shelters and rescues just waiting for someone to love them. There are many purebreds in shelters and rescues. There are also several wonderful mixed breeds.

I own two puppy mill rescue dogs. I lost my third and oldest in August of last year to cancer. I did NOT buy them from a pet store; I obtained them from a reputable rescue group. These were not puppy mill puppies; yes, they were born in a puppy mill, but that is where they stayed - they were not fortunate enough to be sold to a pet store. They were used as stud dogs in a puppy mill. They lived their entire puppyhood and, in my oldest's case, most of their adult lives in a little cage with little human contact. When I first got them the oldest did nothing but run in little circles - that's all the room he ever had in his cage. He lifted one little paw and then the other, giving each of his paw pads a rest from the wire that he remembered even though it was no longer there; this habit was second nature. The younger male lived under a chair in my living room for a month. He ate his dinner there, had his water there. He trusted no one. They were so grateful for love and kindness, but were afraid to trust it for a long time.

I could go on and on with their psychological and physical problems and the horrendous smell that comes with them from the puppy mill that is nearly impossible to wash off no matter how often you bathe them...but I won't.

The point is that as badly as you feel for that puppy in the window, their PARENTS are the ones suffering the longest in the mills. The pet store puppy will eventually either be bought and, hopefully, go to a good home - although no one at most pet stores will bother to check - or it will be euthanized or die from either an inherited disease or a disease neglected by the pet store and it's "vet". Either way it won't suffer nearly as long as its parents will. And every time someone buys a pet store puppy, it makes room for the puppy millers to replace it with another.

Why are pet stores in business? Hmmm...an earlier post says it isn't to make money. Excuse me, but HUH???? I don't know a lot of businesses that are in business NOT to make money. And considering the markups on these puppies I find it hard to believe they don't make money. They're in it to help and rescue animals? From what? If there were no pet stores, there would be no puppies to RESCUE! If they were rescuing animals, they would buy the PARENTS from the millers, have them spayed or neutered and send them to good homes for a small donation to cover vet expenses and purchase.

If you want to see how these dogs are treated search for 'puppy mill rescue' on yahoo and see what you find out...

Again, I am asking for the names, physical addresses and license numbers of the breeders being utilized by these pet stores. Any takers?

Just curious Nicole, where does this nursery get so many puppies and kittens? Strays? Unwanted animals? or Breeders... i.e. puppy mills.????

Just curious Nicole, where does this nursery get so many puppies and kittens? Strays? Unwanted animals? or Breeders... i.e. puppy mills.????

Just curious Nicole, where does this nursery get so many puppies and kittens? Strays? Unwanted animals? or Breeders... i.e. puppy mills.????

Though its always hard to lose a loved one, and a pet....sometimes you must look past ignorant claims such as this that was made against the Puppy and Kitty Nursery. I have been a patron since early 1993 since they opened their doors in Largo through 2004. I have worked for the owners as well. Here are a couple of facts:

1. They do not receive puppies from puppy mills or never have.

2. The other Puppy & Kitty : Pick of the Litter were owned by an entirely different set of owners, they just were similar to franchises.

3. Puppies do get cold and do get sick. If the "parents" believe they aren't getting the best treatment at a vet...or it is questionable. Get a second opinion!!!! duh!!! If you child was obviously sick would you just listen to the first person who gave you an answer you weren't happy with. heck no!

SOMEONE WHO OBVIOUSLY HAD ENOUGH INFORMATION TO BOTHER POSTING THIS BLASPHEMY SHOULD OF CHANNELED BASIC KNOWLEDGE IN SEARCHING THE WEB ON PUPPY REARING AND HEALTH.....SHAME SHAME SHAME ON YOU

4. My family, my friends, everyone I meet that wants a new puppy, I send to Puppy & Kitty Nursery. I now know of over 150 puppies, personally, bought from there over the years locally that are thriving and just fine. Their parents are pleased as punch...as I am with my newest edition. NOT ONE has had the health problems reported, and occassional cold but given children cold meds it went away within 48 hours.

5. The cleanliness levels, pet safety, and pet friendly setup take a relief off of the normal pet stores wire cage (cutting paw pads and causing undo pain to baby puppies) that usual pet stores have.

6. The staff is extremely friendly and helful...the 24 HOUR helpline...in which the OWNER actually will wake up and help you through "emergencies" (believe me people who have never had children or pets believe a sneeze or runny nose to be one).

As for their claims of claimant being slanderous...well read your own posting...hello! If you do not have documented proof of this statements, you should not state them. You are lucky you weren't sued. Trespass can only be done if you have continously returned to a property against their will. I remember hearing of this situation...swearing and yelling was involved on claimants side..hmmm...

In conclusion, not only is Puppy & Kitty Nursery one of the best pet stores in history, but its service in providing the best pets we have ever met is outstanding :) :) :)

This is my first post to this website because this subject is near and dear to my heart. Please never buy a domestic pet from a pet store, they get their animals from one place and one place only, mills. You will not be required by this pet store to spay or neuter your pet, and therefore you may contribute to the overpopulation of animals which is already a problem.
Many people don't know about puppy mills, but the one point that bothers me the most is the "operators" of these mills barely let the bitches recover before they want them pregnant again. How would you feel if this was you, your wife, sister, or mother?? No wonder the puppies are sick. Don't buy from breeders either, they won't require you to spay or neuter your pet either, and again, if you don't spay or neuter you are a part of the problem, not the soulution.
If you are an animal lover, you should visit a humane society or rescue group to find your next pet. I have been a volunteer for homeless animals for three years. I have adopted four dogs from these groups and no dog bought in a puppy mill or from a breeder would be any better. Besides, most humane societies and rescue groups WILL require you to spay or neuter your pet because "we" know all too well how many wonderful animals are put down every year.

Critics will not understand this post, only honest animal lovers will.

Until there comes a time when there are no unwanted, homeless, abused animals, please adopt form a shelter or rescue agency.

"Speak for those who cannot speak for themselves"

I bought a dog from Puppie and Kitty Nursery in Largo about a year ago. My Cocker Spaniel did have problem. I didn't know for several months. When I bought him they gave me a small bag of food and told me that puppies some times get sick when in different places. So I feed it to him and for some reason he keep getting sick everytime he ate. I told my husband that I knew there was something wrong with him. I took him to the vet.

He had to stay the night and after that they found out that he had a eating disorder. It took him 4 hours to digest one little pill. I called Puppie and Kitty Nursey and told them they wanted to see his chart from the vet.

I took them all the x-rays and they did hold to their word. I signed a paper that if I found out that my dog had any problem that was something he was born with they would pay for it.

They gave me back all my money and even paid $450.00 for the vet bill. I have a dog now that I have to feed liquid food to and make sure he does not consume to much or he will get sick but it is worth it. I love that dog with all my heart. I dont think what they did to the other people was good but they did stand by their word with me.

I agree with the people above who say to go to the pound for a pet. Not only that, every major city has various purebreed rescue organizations - i.e. "Dachshund Rescue", "Collie Rescue", etc.
You can find them by asking your local veterinarian or animal shelter for their number. You can get a purebred animal from these organizations for approximately $100, which includes initial vaccinations, worming, and spay or neutering. True, you sometimes can't find a puppy, but please let's get over our selfish fascinations with "puppies". Truthfully, puppies are a pain in the neck. You have to go through the housebreaking, the chewing, barking, basic training, all the puppy problems. Who needs it?

One benefit of getting pets from the rescue organizations is that they are very dedicated to matching a puppy's personality to the new owners and their individual situation. The people at the rescue have been fostering these animals and are familiar with their personalities and any issues they may have. And if the animal does not work out for your family, they WANT you to bring it back and find one that is more suitable for you. These people TRULY CARE about these animals.

I know (or want to believe) that all pet stores are not bad. But there is a serious homeless pet problem and I don't know if anyone should be allowed to breed animals until the homeless situation is resolved. I definitely believe the general public should not be allowed to breed their animals without having a breeder's licence at the very least. I always hear people say "Oh, I've always been able to find homes for my puppies/kittens." Can't they figure out that it only means other puppies or kittens that didn't find homes? And as long as there are people buying from these stores/breeders/puppy mills, they will continue to operate, just like anything else that has a customer base.

I feel very badly about those who have been ripped off by pet shops. Please remember to only buy from a reputable breeder.

A GOOD breeder will ask for vet references, personal references, about previous pets (where are they what hapened to them) why do you want this particular breed, what do you plan to do with the dog ETC. if at the end you feel like you have been questioned to the extent that you would be if you were to adopt a child then you are dealing with a reputable breeder.

Also a reputable breeder will only offer full registration on a dog that will be shown. the rest will have spay and neuter contracts or will be neutered before being placed with you. keep in mind also that if you buy a show dog you will HAVE to provide proof to the breeder of active showing or they can legally reclaim your dog. As you can see none of the traits that mark a good breeder are available at a pet store. you would be surprised to know that a well breed puppy from a top breeder costs less than the puppy mill products at pet stores.

Also, ALL good breeders offer congenital defect guarantees on their dogs that last a lifetime and if your dog does develop problems they will either refund your money AND let you keep the dog or replace the dog and keep the sick one.keep in mindthat your pet store puppie's papers are useless to the breed it's from as no serious show or work enthusiast would be interested in your pups and if you breed your you would be adding to the glut of homeles dogs because each one of those people who buy one of your pups could have adopted.

I also suggest that anyone who bought a pet store pup and had problems call the AKC and raise H*** tell them the breeder and store sold you an obviously deathly ill puppy. I would also like to add that when I saw the prices you paid for these dogs I almost fell out of my chair. A SHOW quality toy puppy with a show and health gurantee rarely costs over 1000 ( unless it is an extremely rare breed like the toy Munchkin) let alone $2000 for a pomeranian. To the lady who so vehemently defended her shop and proclaimed her and said employer's love for animals I would like to ask what rescue group she's involved with how about her employer who doesn't get rich from selling these poor animals but out of the goodness of his heart what rescue group is he involved in?

Also, why don't you provide the list of all the great breeders your animals come from and the show and working titles their parents have earned to make the acceptable to breed. also before you sell an animal do you spay and neuter? whatif the family gets bored of the dog?do you take it back and return shipping costs like a good breeder? or do you let the animal get dumped at the pound? I can't believe you have the nerve to come to this website and defend the way you purvey puppies to the people you and your industry have already screwed. when you do the dilligent calling to the lady who wants her papers please try and justify why you sold her a pet quality pomeranian for $2000 let alone that you sold it sick.

I AM SO SORRY ABOUT ALL THE STORIES I HAVE JUST READ, BUT I HAVE A LITTLE ADVISE. THERE ARE THOUSANDS OF PUPPIES AND DOGS PUT TO SLEEP EVERY YEAR.

GO TO YOUR LOCAL POUND AND PAY A SMALL AMOUNT OF MONEY, SAVE A LIFE, AND GET A GREAT DOG. 2 YEARS AGO I WENT AND THERE WAS 4 EIGHT WEEK OLD PUPPIES, THEY LOOKED LIKED THE PUPPIES ON THE RED DEVIL COMMERCIAL(ADORABLE) THEY WERE LAB/CHOW MIX.

I GOT ONE, HER NAME IS HARLEY SHE IS SOOO SMART AND VERY PROTECTIVE OF ME, WHEN I TAKE HER TO THE BEACH PEOPLE STOP ME AND ASK WHAT KIND OF DOG SHE IS BECAUSE SHE IS SO PRETTY.

I WISH I WOULD OF GOTTEN ALL OF THEM BUT I DIDNT HAVE ROOM AT THE TIME. 3 OF THEM WERE KILLED THE NEXT MORNING, SOMEONE MISSED OUT ON SOME GREAT DOGS.

MY OTHER DOG IS JAKE, A SHEPARD MIX. HE WAS VERY BADLY ABUSED AND WHEN I GOT HIM HE HAD WORMS, EAR INFECTION, AND VERY SKINNEY. HE WAS FREE AND IT COST ABOUT 100.

TO GET HIM WELL, NOW HE IS A VERY GOOD DOG AND LOVES TO CLIMB OVER THE 41/2FT CHAIN LINK FENCE SO HE CAN COME SIT ON THE PORCH AND WATCH US.

HE HAS COME OUT OF HIS SHELL AND PLAYS WITH HIS DADDY NOW BECAUSE HE IS NOT SCARED ANYMORE OF GETTING HIT BY A MAN.

STOP BUYING FROM THESE PET STORES THAT CHARGE AN ARM AND LEG FOR SICK DOGS THAT MOST ARE COMMING FROM PUPPY MILLS, THEY ARE IN THIS TO MAKE MONEY THEY DONT CARE ABOUT THE ANIMALS.

GO TO THE POUND, ALOT OF TIMES THEY HAVE FULL BLOODED DOGS ALSO. IT MAKES ME SICK TO KNOW THAT PEOPLE PAY 500.00 FOR A DOG THEY CAN GET AT THE POUND OR A RESCUE LEAGUE FOR FREE!!!!!!!!!

AGAIN SORRY ABOUT YOUR HORROR STORIES BUT PLEASE JUST GO TO A POUND ONE DAY, IT WILL MELT YOUR HEART.

What is wrong with these people that operate these Pet stores? Do they have no heart or conscience? I bought a puppy in Feb 2001. He was an eight week old Schipperke. He was "My baby". When we first got him he looked like a tiny bear. We named him Smokey! I fell in love with him the moment I saw him. He was in a cage with several other dogs. They were all biting and pushing him around, he was the smallest in the cage. I went over and picked him up. He kissed me and then laid his head on my shoulder and let out a sigh. I was in love. I loved him more then I ever thought was humanly possible.

For one year and three months, I fought with and for him to be healthy. Despite all of our best efforts he passed away on July 13, 2002 after a three day stay in the ICU. It was devastating to me. I am still devastated. The thought that I will never feel him sleeping beside me or on me, like he loved to do. He won't be one step behind me, I won't see that sweet innocent face, is unbearable. Any and everyone that ever meet Smokey said he was just a loveable dog. He was so sweet.

My husband and I spent several thousand dollars trying to make him well. We received papers from Mr. Mark Petrizza, the owner of Puppy Love. They were signed by his veterinary. They were all a lie!!! We took the puppy to the vet, two days after we purchased him. He had ring worm, round worm, mange and kennel cough. We had several emergency room visits and several vet appointments. Numerous treatments and medications. Nothing worked!!

My husband contacted the owner and his solution to the problem was for us to return Smokey to him and he would euthanize him. He would then either replace the dog or refund our money. That is not a solution!! What is that going to fix??? We loved Smokey!!

They take absolutely no responsibility for what they have done. I will not stop until Puppy Love, the Veterinarian that signed the papers claiming he was healthy, and all of the breeders that had to do with this scam are put out of business. I just don't want anyone else to go through what my husband and I went through. Not to mention, I do not want any other animals mistreated so badly!!!

I have filed a report with the BBB and The Humane Society of United States!!

Please join me in helping to put an end to this!!!

What is wrong with these people that operate these Pet stores? Do they have no heart or conscience? I bought a puppy in Feb 2001. He was an eight week old Schipperke. He was "My baby". When we first got him he looked like a tiny bear. We named him Smokey! I fell in love with him the moment I saw him. He was in a cage with several other dogs. They were all biting and pushing him around, he was the smallest in the cage. I went over and picked him up. He kissed me and then laid his head on my shoulder and let out a sigh. I was in love. I loved him more then I ever thought was humanly possible.

For one year and three months, I fought with and for him to be healthy. Despite all of our best efforts he passed away on July 13, 2002 after a three day stay in the ICU. It was devastating to me. I am still devastated. The thought that I will never feel him sleeping beside me or on me, like he loved to do. He won't be one step behind me, I won't see that sweet innocent face, is unbearable. Any and everyone that ever meet Smokey said he was just a loveable dog. He was so sweet.

My husband and I spent several thousand dollars trying to make him well. We received papers from Mr. Mark Petrizza, the owner of Puppy Love. They were signed by his veterinary. They were all a lie!!! We took the puppy to the vet, two days after we purchased him. He had ring worm, round worm, mange and kennel cough. We had several emergency room visits and several vet appointments. Numerous treatments and medications. Nothing worked!! My husband contacted the owner and his solution to the problem was for us to return Smokey to him and he would euthanize him. He would then either replace the dog or refund our money. That is not a solution!! What is that going to fix??? We loved Smokey!! They take absolutely no responsibility for what they have done. I will not stop until Puppy Love, the Veterinarian that signed the papers claiming he was healthy, and all of the breeders that had to do with this scam are put out of business. I just don't want anyone else to go through what my husband and I went through. Not to mention, I do not want any other animals mistreated so badly!!!

I have filed a report with the BBB and The Humane Society of United States!!

Please feel free to contact me!! Please join me in helping to put an end to this!!!

Obviously, you misunderstood my message. I totally understand why they requested an ID number for my puppy, which is why I went home to get it and supplied it to them when I called. If this filing system is so efficient, why have I never received a phone call back?

I was not questioning the records system utilized by that store, I was questioning the fact that I have never received a phone call back regarding my inquiry into my puppy's papers. Also, my handwriting on the paperwork I filled out has nothing to do with why I wanted the employee to take my name when I called; how would the manager call me back if he had no idea who called and left the message? (Although, I guess I needn't have worried about that since they never bothered to return my call in the first place.)

I also understand that puppies have immune systems and can get sick by being handled by the public; I am sure all of us understand that, we are not stupid. The issue here is the fact that they LIED when it came to the health of our pets. The issue is also that they have poor customer service skills after the animals have been purchased and act as if they cannot be bothered with customers who contact them after the fact. I am extremely dissatisfied with the way I have been treated by the employees of the Palm Harbor store and wrote my response in regards to that. I also was commiserating with the original writer about the illness her dog suffered and the diagnosis she received in regards to "small animals having small tracheas".

I am happy you feel your store in Valrico does not conduct business in the same manner, however, that does me no good at this time. The fact of the matter is, and will continue to be, that I was sold a sick dog who has never gotten over her original illness, I was told there was nothing wrong with her, and I have yet to receive her papers, which does not surprise me. As was stated in my original message, once they got the money from me, I was of no consequence to them.

In addition, I am curious as to which store you were referring to in regards to the staff being fired. If it was the Largo store, how would you have found that out when you "are not affiliated with them"? One more thing: what is your position at the Valrico store? If you are in management, I would be interested in contacting you, only if you felt you could get the papers for my pup from the Palm Harbor location. At this point, I am extremely agitated and am willing to do anything to get these papers and have no further dealings with that store.

To Suzy: If you are still keeping up with this report, I would like to hear what the outcome of your situation was. Your original message was a year ago and I am curious to see how you have fared since.

This is Kathryn writing directly to the women who purchased an animal from the Palm Harbor location. I will be more than willing to help you if you are willing to contact the Valrico location. 813-689-6900.

I am sorry you felt put off by an employee working at that store. The reason she asked for the puppies I.D. # was because when you filled out all your paperwork you would've written the information you were requesting to give down on those forms.

Unfortunately when you sell as many dogs as we do the only logical filing system is by year purchased and puppy breed.

Example: If the animal was purchased in 1999 and numbered P2122 we would look under that specific breed and find the I.D. # alot faster than looking by name.

Customers writing is sometimes hard to make out and we have found that by following this system we can help our customers faster. Which as every one knows the quicker a problem is solved the happier the customer.

I feel horrible for the death of that animal and am sorry I did not hear about the situation sooner. The fact still remains that we are talking about live animals and not material objects.

People complain if animals are behind glass and the puppies suffer from not having early socialization with customers. With an open enviroment the puppies chances of becoming ill are higher. With the stress of leaving their home enviroment to add to a low immunity. These stores are like daycares. If you have a child you will be more likely to understand.

When a store sells as many puppies as we do ofcourse there is going to be some kind of illnesses that can occur. An animal has an immune system and anything with an immune system can fall ill and die. Especially with the smaller breeds when dehydration sets in almost always causing Hypoglycemia which can never improve matters.

To add to this I would like to inform you that the manager and entire staff of that store has been terminated at this time and will never be up for rehire. The company saw the problems coming out of that store and decided it was time to clean house.

The woman running it now is one of the owner's daughters and her fiance which are two of the kindest people you will ever meet. Like any company we have issues with reliable trustworthy staff but when an issue comes up with our animals we tolerate no nonsense and fix our errors.

I have a lot of questions for you and would appreciate a call from you to help you with this loss. If in the future any customer feels as if they are put off I request only a phone call to step into the situation and resolve it.

As you can tell I am not happy with this situation and will not tolerate this kind of behavior from any employee ever. Especially when it comes to the health of the animal.

I was reading the previous message from Kathryn at the "other" Puppy and Kitty Nursery and felt I needed to share my story. I bought my Pomeranian puppy from Pick of the Litter in Palm Harbor, one of the branches of her store. The day I went into the store, I fell in love with this puppy, but noticed that she had a pretty bad cough. I went home that night and talked it over with my boyfriend about whether or not we wanted to buy her anyway.

The next day, I went in and bought her. I brought it to their attention that she was coughing and they said she was fine. She had only been in the store TWO DAYS before I purchased her and her vet report showed she was not ill. I took her to the store's vet and found that she was, indeed, sick with a respiratory infection and had intestinal parasites.

I was given antibiotics and sent home. After she had finished the first round of antibiotics, she was no better, so I brought her back to the vet. I refused to pay for any services related to this illness because it stemmed from the "initial visit". She was given a second antibiotic at this time. I, too, was told that due to her small size and small trachea, this was common.

After THAT was finished, she was STILL coughing. She was only approximately 3 pounds and sounded like she was choking when she coughed, causing her whole body to shake.

I took her BACK to the vet and was told she needed to be put in a nebulizer to break up the congestion. She was there all day and given several nebulizer treatments. I took her home and watched her for a span of approximately 2 weeks and she got no better.

I brought her back, yet again, and demanded that she have a chest x-ray taken because there was something wrong with her. I told the vet I was not going to pay a dime for any of these treatments due to the fact that she was still sick with the illness she had acquired at the store.

The X-ray showed that she had lungs full of fluid. I was given ANOTHER antibiotic and a diuretic to help get rid of the fluid. Needless to say, this is 5 MONTHS later and she still coughs, just like the day I bought her.

On another topic, I was told the day I bought her that I was to receive her papers in the mail within 90 days. I have called the store to find out where the papers are and was directed to call the corporate office.

When I contacted the phone number I was given, I got an answering machine that said, "Due to reorganization, the corporate office has been closed". I was then directed to call my local store.

I called them back and explained that their corporate office was no longer in existence. The employee acted as if I was inconveniencing her and asked for my dog's ID number. I explained that I did not have it, as I was at work, and would call back when I got home. I did just that, and spoke with the same employee. I told her I wanted to talk with a manager. She stated he was not available and said I could leave a message. She asked me for my dog's ID number, and I said, "Don't you want my name?".

Again, she acted inconvenienced, but took it. Then she told me she would have him call me, but never took my phone number until I asked her if she wanted it.

I have never received a call back and, like I said, I have had the dog for 5 months and never received any paperwork for her. I find this to be unacceptable and wonder how an employee can NOT know that their corporate office is no longer in existence. I find it also unacceptable that they never got back with me and I was treated so rudely.

I paid over $2000 for this dog, which was OUTRAGEOUS to begin with (however, I fell in love with her and had a temporary bout of insansity) and can't believe how shoddily I am being treated. My poor pup is still sick and to be honest, I doubt she will ever get over it.

My heart totally goes out to the family over the loss of their puppy from the Largo store. However, I found it ironic that the employee from the Valrico store wrote that long message explaining how their practices were not like the Largo store, which I have obviously proven to be false.

In short, I will NEVER purchase another animal from EITHER facility. Although they are not affiliated, they both obviously lie about the health of the animals they are selling and do not follow up with the owners once the money has exchanged hands.

"Responsible" breeders don't sell to pet stores. Period.

Voice Of Compassion for Animal Life, Inc. (VOCAL) would like to speak to individuals that have had problems with these pet stores. We are a local (Tampa) animal welfare organization geared mainly towards companion animal issues. We'd like to help spread the word, much like ripoffreport.com is. Those faces are cute and reel folks in. Then when the puppy is sick, deformed or genetically problematic, they suggest returning the dog (to be killed) for a "refund".

We are also very interested in copies of the paperwork, as well as the vets signing the health certificates.

We can be contacted at www.forthevoiceless.org

Don't breed or buy while homeless animals die.

I CANT BELIEVE THIS! I WAS JUST THERE YESTERDAY!!!!! THE PUPPIES WWERE SO CUTE WE ALMOST GOT ONE! THEN WHEN WE GOT HOME MY BROTHER LOOKED THEM UP ON THE INTERNET AND SAW YOUR STORY.

NOW I UNDERSTAND HOW HORRIBLE THAT MUST HAVE BEEN BUT DO YOU REALLY THINK ALL THEIR PUPPIES WILL BE "DEFECTIVE"?

I MEAN COME ON THERE WERE LIKE THIRTY PUPPIES IN THERE AND IM SURE NOT EVERY SINGLE ONE OF THOSE WERE SICK.

IM NOT AGAINST YOU GUYS BUT I DO FEEL YOU ARE BLOWING IT OUT OF PROPORTION!

MY REGARDS,

I'm sorry to hear of the loss of your puppy. I had a similiar experience with a PUPPYMILL - right from the internet who sold me a sick, parasite infested unregistered AKC puppy and shipped her over 1000 miles on an airplane in this condition. Here is what I did & maybe this will help you.

I contacted the State Vet where this puppymill is located and filed a report against her. I then reported the puppymill to the Humane Society, The USDA, The AKC, Animal Control for the town where she runs this terrible puppymill & also, The Saint Bernard Rescue Club. Unfortuntley I did not get my money back HOWEVER she was investigated on several diffrent items & an investigation is still taking place.

Maybe you need to contact some appropriate people in your area & advise them of what happened with your puppy upon purchase & upon the first visit with the vet. Maybe the Humane Society or the State Vet where you live can give you some advise on how to go about solving your problems! I wish you better luck next time you purchase a puppy!

Though I am sorry for your loss, I would have only glowing references after doing business with "the nursery". I know this is harsh, but you have to take responsibility for not demanding a vet to care for your pup while it was still alive. Now...you are all gung h*o. You should of been that way in the medical needs of your pup. You KNEW your pup was ill. The nursery disclosed that your pup was ill. If their vet did not prescribe the RX you felt was needed you should of kept seeing vets, paying for the visits, until you got what the pup needed. Hell or high water would not prevent me from geting proper meddical care for my pet. You sound like an intelligent person. You dropped the ball.

Now you are trying to make some business owners life miserable because of your shortcomings. You should be doubley ashamed of yourself.

I, too, bought a chihuahua pup from the store mentioned. He is a wonderful healthy very well bred typey chihuahua. I traveled back to Minnesota with him and saw MY vet within the week allowed. He had a glowing health report.

While it is always best to buy from a breeder, The "nursery" does a service by allowing people to interact with a vareity of breeds to help them decide wthich breed is best suited to them. The staff is generous with the time allowed to get to know the pups, and generous with sharing their knowledge and the health history of all pups.

I have been in animal health for 20 years. I, too, bought on a whim and my experience was positive. I dont think you condemn a place on one person's bad experience that they, themselves, had a part in.

I think you really need to rethink this vegeance kick your on

My name Is kathryn and I have worked for Pick of the Litter Puppy & Kitty Nursery in Valrico, FL. for now close to 7 years. I did not know that this website was here until a potential client e-mailed it to me with her regrets and comments that I was not reputable.

I want it to be publically known that our stores are VALRICO, NEW PORT RICHEY, and PALM HARBOR FL. It is not our fault that there is another company in the area that took a great idea developed by my boss and made it as if it were their own.

It is not our fault if their business practices different morals and ethics than ours. Yet we are being blamed. I agree with any consumer that the animals welfare is more important than how much money can be made from it. I have used my right to decline the sale of an animal to people. For Example, A man looking at a Golden Retriever was turned away by me when he stated that he was going to keep the animal outside. That puppy was $1300.00 and I care more about the well being in the long run for the animal than turn around.

It is not fair to us that work 15 hours a day to keep up a facility, and be in compliance with now not only state regulations but the county regulations also (that both contradict the other one), to be blamed or confused with this one that is having consumer issues.

I will agree that an animal should NOT be sent home if there are signs of a cold present unless the veterinarian has noted it on the health certificate and the consumer is sent home with the antibiotics. Not agreeing with this store but the truth is when you deal with the general population handling the animals and not disinfecting their hands before and in between EACH puppy & kitty you will have illnesses. Puppies have immune systems like children do, and under stress (change of enviroment, etc..) the animal is more prone to illnesses.

I dont see parents with children and family services banging at their doors because their child went to the doctor for the common flu. Well I have 74 children but they all have four legs and fur.

The only difference is with my children strangers play with them because the math will show socialization is highly important at a young age.

From a business stand point the cost of medical expenses are slim compared to the thousands of puppies sent home with great interactive skills learned in my enviroment. I can not speak for Largo or Tampa nurseries I have never worked for those companies. I can however tell you that our Valrico location last year sold over 14,000 dogs and if a breeder was dealing with those kinds of numbers they would have colds among their animals too.

Pet stores are always branded as bad only because the # of animals sold from a pet store verses a breeder are drastically different. Why is it no one ever looks at it from that point of view?I can honestly tell you that at my store where every new puppy is given2 weeks worth of preventatives, advantage, ivomec, examined, vaccinated, fecal performed, health certificate issued, etc... just when the animal walks thru the door I have just sunk $200.00 into it.

Thats the cost of the animal, shipping, (because there are NO NONE NOT EVEN ONE government licensed breeder in the ten percentile we can deal with in this state), and alot of preventatives (that you would of had to do) already into this puppy and all it did was walk thru the door.

There really is no making money in this business. Let me rephrase that,if you do this business having morals and ethics because some of gods living creatures are involved you will never make a dime in this business.

you are not an all around lover for all of gods creatures then it would be easy to not think about the animals. We do this because we love it and let me tell you if love wasnt there I would have left a long time ago. The obstacles we have to go thru to do this would not be worth it if there was no passion and devotion. Why do I do it? I do it for the families that fill the gap in the family portrait. To know I completed a family and the look in the puppies eyes as if he knows that he has now a family. You might think I'm crazy but they know. When you play with them than put them back the look on their face they know. I am a pet shop employee that is just asking for one simple thing to clarify there are two Nurseries,there locations,and that there is no affiliation between the two. I also ask that before you pass judgement on my stores you come and see for your self the condition of cleanliness and health my Valrico store is in. I know you will love my store and see that none of my puppies on the floor for sale cough or gag if I hear it they immediately get meds and isolated in the Isolation area for 36 hour observation. Dont judge me if you do not know me and dont brand me "that pet store" when you dont know what my company is about. Instead of assuming ask me questions.I want to show you I'm a great pet dealer who happens to have a soft spot for my job. I want to inform you about my company,open the books and show you we are different than the ones in the old days or the ones we are confused with.

The concept of the nurseries my boss developed while he worked for other pet industries is a wonderful idea that the animals can benefit from if the proper guidelines are followed.
There is no guarantee that the animal will not fall ill. Thats the risk of live animals and in every book every animal is prone to a list of health issues.

Mix breeds either breed in the problems or out the problems but you dont know when there little. My father has put over 4000.00 into his 1 1/2 year old lab mix I found on the side of the road. He's not telling me I find only unhealthy animals. Cocoa is a family member now and we would sell our cars if it meant to keep her alive. Why doesnt someone do a story on a good pet store for a change.

A pet store that wants to make a change not only for customers but for the animals. Instead of yelling and assuming,ask and communicate. I am just like everyone else the only difference is I know how hard it is and how much work we do. I know the sleepless nights with that one animal that keeps crashing due to hypoglycemia or the 3 day old kittens left outside our door with no mother.

We didnt turn them away we bought really expensive formula, bottles, special heaters, etc... and I personally fostered them. I didnt get anything for it besides a job well done given to me by me. No one else stimulated their bowel movement, or bathed them every other night. $178.00 in expenses to get them to 7 weeks, then over $200.00 (at my cost) to have bloodwork and vaccines done. $280.00 keeping hercules alive at emergency vet, followed by consoling from E.R. vet and told I did the best I could. Socks leaving me the night after that. Not enough antibodies from the mothers milk was given to them the vets told me.

Tabitha & little Powder were sold to a very sweet woman who heard their story and saw it as I did seperation would be horrible. They sold for $75.00 a piece. The price of raising two to watch them die is unthinkable but to know that two I raised I made a difference for. Without my help they may not have made it and I did something in which money was definately not made.

I did something that I remember when Pamela sends me holiday cards with pictures of my dearly missed Tabitha & Powder. Dont try to tell me that all pet stores are horrible and dont care because I have about a million more stories that I could share with you. I will admit I have horrible business parctices. I have them because I love my animals and I respect my fellow human being. I kind of like not being rich and knowing I never will be. My bosses and their 7 children, Myself and the animals that somehow appeared in my house from the nurseries, the die hard employees that work until exhaustion, we know that this business is more hassle than what we are paid to deal with but that doesnt matter to us.

The feeling of making a difference for a living thing and putting smiles on childrens faces the little things make me richer than any other human on this earth.

Dont judge me for what I do in the history that has been made take a moment to have a conversation with me about "ginger" the lab or "oscar" the dachshund. Is this to much to ask from a pet store that is trying to be the best we can and satisfy consumers the best way we know how?

I am sorry for the woman with the Chihuahua because I know the pain of losing an animal is no different than losing a friend. I do agree that other medical options should have been explored and the animal should have been medicated, but its an animal that I never saw and I can not comment more than that but make sure before you throw the rocks at our stores make sure I'm the one who ruffled your feathers to begin with.--Thank you for your time to listen to my point of view and if you would like to contact me to ask me a question (813) 689-6900 Kathryn

They filed the following to the above Rip-Off Report:

Their email: optinedtay@yahoo.com
Their name: Minerva

Their relationship to the company: Consumer Suggestion

Rebuttal:
I am very upset about your little baby. What I suggest is to take them into civil and small claims court. Civil as they were well aware of breaking the law and not to mention that it is now a felony to abuse animals. Civil to recoup your money and for pain and suffering. Demand that their businesses close.
Contact the USHumane Society, PETA, League in Defense of animals. They ALL have legal departments where they have been very busy helping to change laws for the good of the animals.
Personally, I would NEVER obtain an animal from puppy mills and pet shops. There are many animals, not only mixed breed but there are PURE BREED animals believe it or not in local shelters!
Many go languishing and ultimately put down. Such a shame.

From: HOPE041277@aol.com

To: info@ripoffreport.com

Sent: Monday, November 19, 2001 10:41 AM

Subject: Rip off Report on Puppy and Kitty Nursery



To Whom it May Concern:



I want to thank the owners of Tazi for making their story public. My name is Tracey Ballard and I purchased a Beagle from the Largo location in January of 2001. I saw a news report on the very same story and just came across this article. I was actually thinking of purchasing another Female Beagle as a companion to the male I previously purchased from the Nursery. I will now not even consider it. Although I did not have the same experience with them and "Louie" is now 1 year old and healthy, I would never support a business that conducted themselves in such a horrible manor. Thank you for getting your story out, at a time I am sure was very difficult for you, I just thought it might make you feel better to know that your efforts have paid off, at least in my eyes. With deepest sympathy and gratitude, Thank you,

I just wanted to remind others to not ever buy animals from this store. This is a follow up from my earlier entry about our puppy that died. Our main goal is to educate others about this place, the money is not the issue, all though it is deserved. Our dog Tazi was so beautiful, we love and miss her so much.



We have to stop pet store animal abuse and close down not only the store but the puppy mills that provide to them. If you have had the same experience, please let us know.



We have tried to get help from just about every agency, but have gotten no where so far. By Florida State Law, one is not allowed to sell a sick animal. This pet store is ignoring the Pet Lemon Law. If you live in the Tampa Bay, St. Pete Florida area, please stay tuned to Cannel 10 News, for an investigative report about our story.



We need all the help we can get. This owner also has a store in Tampa at: 13705 N. Dale Mabry. You can contact me at: suzyitalia@juno.com

Thank you for your help, Suzy

I just wanted to remind others to not ever buy animals from this store. This is a follow up from my earlier entry about our puppy that died. Our main goal is to educate others about this place, the money is not the issue, all though it is deserved. Our dog Tazi was so beautiful, we love and miss her so much.



We have to stop pet store animal abuse and close down not only the store but the puppy mills that provide to them. If you have had the same experience, please let us know.



We have tried to get help from just about every agency, but have gotten no where so far. By Florida State Law, one is not allowed to sell a sick animal. This pet store is ignoring the Pet Lemon Law. If you live in the Tampa Bay, St. Pete Florida area, please stay tuned to Cannel 10 News, for an investigative report about our story.



We need all the help we can get. This owner also has a store in Tampa at: 13705 N. Dale Mabry. You can contact me at: suzyitalia@juno.com

Thank you for your help, Suzy