[gemy]

There is quite a bit to address in your missive.

First a couple of questions? 1) How old was your dog when she underwent surgery?
2) Did you have a health guaranty.. and was it signed by the breeder?

Then if your health guaranty warrants against genetic defects (you need to read the language used); you should have a valid claim against the breeder.

Also there may be a puppy lemon law in your state. Google it and see what if anything it says.

What I think is fair under these conditions is a full refund of the purchase price of the dog.

I would do the following after finding out what exactly you have in paperwork and what the laws are in your State.

Send a registered letter to the breeder, along with photocopies of the diagnosis, and photocopies of the bills. I would state my case clearly and succinctly, outlining what You feel is adequate compensation for what you and your puppy has experienced. And when you expect a reply and the settlement to be paid to you.

Next I would find "free" or very reasonable legal aid, and outline the situation to them, to see what your remedies are under the law.

Regrettably Leggs Perthes disease (which is genetic in all breeds) is rearing its head in our Yorkies. This is something which has been talked about here, and is something each purchaser who informs themselves would be aware of the possibility of.

Just for example did you ask about the health clearances the breeder had done on the breeding dogs? Did you follow up and check the relevant databases? Were the dogs she breed certified by offa to be clear of hip dysplasia and Leggs Perthes?

Purchasing a dog, like any other major purchase is governed by Caveat Empror. Let the buyer beware.

Finally you and your husband need to know that the quality of her recovery is dependent upon keeping your dog quiet. No jumping etc. Get her into a crate where she can't jump. Walk her out to potty on a leash, etc.