[dogbert]

Originally Posted by drabinowitz43

I've just come across this thread and it poses several interesting issues. First, I am no expert except to the extent that I spend the greater part of my life lately staring at Yorkie pictures on here and, to me, that doesn't even come close to looking like the same dog. But whether it is or isn't, I just want the OP to know that bringing a lawsuit for fraud may feel morally right to you, but it will be a huge headache trying to bring someone from across the country into small claims court. I feel for you so much. Purchasing a pup on the internet is risky, but sometimes we don't have a lot of options. If you live near me, I have not found one Yorkie breeder anywhere near me. Pet stores are not an option. Even if you do get to meet the pup before you purchase, there is still so much risk involved. My breeder boasts on her website that she promises you will get a healthy, well socialized puppy. I spent almost $1,200 to get a pup with a liver shunt who, since being diagnosed last month, has already cost me between $4,000 and $5,0000 dollars in medical expenses and that's just the beginning. My breeder didn't give me a dime or an ounce of emotional support. Can I sue her for fraud? I doubt it. I don't want to hijack this very upsetting thread. Just want to tell you that I feel for you and understand how you feel betrayed by someone in this community. The upside to my situation is that I do have a wonderful dog that I love dearly and who fits in with my family. I just hope you don't get into a protracted legal mess that will cost a lot more than Emma. If the breeder ignores you and there is no hope for training, then maybe you should concentrate on finding her the best possible home. You will be out the money, but you will have the satisfaction of knowing you did the best thing for Emma and probably got her out of a situation where she wasn't wanted anyway. A breeder who cares about her Yorkie would never respond like this.

If you were sold a pup with a liver shunt you should have returned it to the breeder for your money back or pick of the next litter. If you kept the pup then you paid the vet bills. I had this happen to me once and those were my options.