UWF analysis on ‘puppy mills’ leads to consumer protection investigation

Attorney General James Uthmeier issued a report this week concluding that deceptive sales of pets have ripped off Floridians to the tune of $25.1 million annually.

The analysis focused largely on the sale of puppies in the state. The report found that at least 80% of young canines sold in Florida are sourced from breeders in other states in so-called “puppy mills.”

Since those animals usually undergo extensive transport to get to Florida, the puppies often arrive sick or mischaracterized in their breeds, which ultimately results in substantial vet bills for families.

The research was conducted by the University of West Florida’s Haas Center, an economic impact and workforce survey arm of the Panhandle campus. Uthmeier said the results led to his Office launching a consumer protection investigation into deceptive sales, sick animals and predatory financing schemes.

“Florida families deserve fair and honest business practices,” Uthmeier said. “This report exposes how deceptive retailers and shady lenders are preying on consumers who are bringing a pet into their family. Our office is opening a formal investigation into the lenders and retailers pushing these predatory loans for sick puppies.”

The 90-page report, “The Cost of Deception: How Sick Pets Drain Florida’s Economy,” also outlines the difficult conditions puppies face on their way to Florida.

As many as 120 puppies can be crammed into one van and transported thousands of miles, with few exams by veterinarians and hardly any oversight. That creates conditions for the spread of disease, which often leads to pricey veterinarian bills.

The report also found that some pet sales involve big retailers that include store-brand credit cards with interest rates as high as 35.9%, along with hidden fees and “deferred interest” in promotions.

“A $5,000 pet purchase can ultimately cost families as much as $16,000 under these terms,” a news release said.

The counties with the most complaints about puppy problems include Orange, Pinellas, Duval, Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach.

The UWF analysis also provided some recommendations, including increasing consumer protections and oversight for breeders and transporters. Researchers also suggest the state modernize pet lemon laws and restrict questionable financing practices.