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What happens if my veterinarian finds that my new pet was unfit for sale?

Consumers who purchase a pet from a dealer have three options if the animal is declared unfit by a licensed veterinarian within a given period:

  1. Return the animal - Consumers can return their pet to the dealer and receive a full refund, including sales tax, as well as reimbursement for the cost of having the animal certified unfit.

  2. Exchange the animal - They can exchange the animal for another one of similar value and receive reimbursement for having the original dog certified as unfit.

  3. Keep the animal - They may keep the animal and receive reimbursement for veterinary costs associated with treating it for the disease or defect.
    Reimbursement is capped at the purchase price of the animal.


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Here is a link to the full text of the “lemon law”: https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/laws/GBS/A35-D.
Another version is on the Consumer Affairs website page on pet purchaser protection: https://www.consumeraffairs.com/pets/lemon_ny.html.


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The form that veterinarians can sign to certify that animals are not fit for sale is attached. There's also an online complaint form for owners.

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