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Metro Detroit mother says Petland in Novi sold her family a sick puppy

Posted at 6:33 PM, Oct 30, 2017
and last updated 2017-10-30 18:33:40-04

Monica Rattee says little Barry has only been a member of her Hazel Park family for a little over a week- and he already won their hearts.   But now this 3-pound puppy  is fighting for his life.

A veterinarian diagnosed him with the parasites giardia and coccidia. If he would take medicine, he would have a chance, but he has refused to eat. 

“It is heartbreaking for any family to have to see a dog after a week be this miserable, and potentially dying,” said Rattee. 

She called Seven Action News after reading on-line reviews of Petland, which is in Twelve Oaks Mall in Novi. Many people complained that they too had sick pets. She says she is worried about the puppies that shared a crate with Barry and wanted to raise awareness.

“If he has it, I know the others have this parasite because it is contagious from dog to dog,” she said.

“It is difficult to have things at fault or at blame but we encourage any pet owner to have take their puppy to the vet right from the get go,” said Dr. Heather Jarrett, a veterinarian at the Ann Arbor Animal Hospital. 

She says such parasites are extremely common in puppies, regardless of where they come from.  It there is a pattern, shelters or pet stores should look into what is causing the illness, 
but puppies can easily catch parasites while well-cared for. 

“Most of them are though fecal oral route. So if they come in contact with contaminated soil or grass, most puppies want to explore, they are going to be exposed though that process,” she said. 

Petland released a statement saying, “ The health and well-being of our puppies is Petland's number one priority. Petland has a consulting veterinarian that monitors the health of all of the puppies in the store. Puppies, like babies, can still get sick which is why Petland has a warranty that covers bacterial, viral, congenital and hereditary issues.”

Petland has offered to refund the $3,300 Monica paid for the yorkie - bichon mix if he is returned. She says that won’t change the fact her two daughters have fallen in love with the sick puppy. 

“i just hurt for my kids more than anything. It is just sad to see,” said Monica.