We purchased a puppy from Petland Columbus, Georgia almost three years ago and have sorely regretted that rash decision. We paid an exorbitant price for our puppy, almost three times what a local breeder wanted, but we felt it was worth the extra money because Petland had such a great health guarantee and they assured us we were getting a quality puppy, from premium breeding stock.

About two years later we started to realize what bad shape our little dog was in. Our vet confirmed he had horrible joint and back problems, all genetic issues. "This is the result of bad breeding, " he said. "What were his parents like?" We had to admit we had no idea. But we loved our little dog to pieces so we were willing to do whatever we could to get him the extremely expensive surgeries that our vet said he desperately needed.

We went back to Petland and explained the situation. They were very accommodating at first, saying how sorry they were and how they wanted to help us and would absolutely pay for the surgery... on one condition. We had to take the dog to their vet and have her confirm he really did need the surgeries. Imagine our astonishment when we reached the vet’s office, she took a quick look at him and said, "No. He looks like he's managing just fine. He can live a very full and happy life without surgery." He died two months later from complications of his back problems. He was playing in our front yard one day and fell, compressing his spinal cord and paralyzing him. He was in severe pain and would likely never walk again. We had no choice but to have him put down. My kids were devastated.

Here's what I learned the hard way about Petland. They buy their puppies from a farm that breeds for quantity instead of quality. Meaning, they breed females who have genetic problems and aren't fit to have puppies. Then Petland marks them up 300% and sells them to the public with a "Health Guarantee", but the fine print on that guarantee states that their vet must be consulted if any health problems arise. Their vet spent five minutes with our dog and declared him fit when our personal vet clearly told me if was in danger and required surgery right away. This is the experience of a heartbroken pet owner. I won't tell you to not buy your dog from Petland, but I do hope you read my story and make your own decision.