[PKHenderson]

When my husband and I got our first "small" dog, we got a bichon from a pet store (I know.. I know, we learned our lesson on pet stores).. anyways, we purchased the warranty on her. You would have to read how yours is worded, our pup was covered against debilitating genetic defects... in other words, if it could be fixed and she was still suitable as a pet then that's the end of it. The pet store did however cover the cost of the surgery.. which was minimal because it was our choice to have her spayed and they fixed her hernia during the spay. From what the vet told me there is what he called a "true" hernia.. meaning it is hereditary and that dog would, if breed, have the possibility of passing that on.. or there is a hernia where the mama bit the umbilical cord too close and it didn't properly heal up.. which would not be considered genetic. Either way, it needs fixed. So, I guess it would depend on the wording of your contract and how in depth the breeder goes as to if you are out of luck or if she will cover the cost. Hope this helps? IMO, she should cover the cost of the surgery.. or you should now have the purchase/refund option.