Attorney General James Uthmeier has released an economic report that finds deceptive pet sales and predatory financing schemes cost Florida residents more than $25 million each year. The report, conducted by the University of West Florida’s Haas Center and commissioned by the Office of the Attorney General, has prompted a formal investigation into these practices.
“Florida families deserve fair and honest business practices,” said Attorney General James Uthmeier. “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 study found that over 80% of puppies sold in Florida come from large breeders outside the state, many operating as puppy mills. These animals often arrive sick or are misrepresented to buyers, leading to significant veterinary costs for families. Transportation conditions were also highlighted; vans can carry up to 120 puppies thousands of miles without required veterinary checks, increasing the risk of disease spread.
According to the report, only about 3% of affected consumers file complaints, suggesting that actual financial losses may exceed $25 million annually. Aggressive financing options offered by major pet retailers contribute to the problem. Store-branded credit cards with interest rates as high as 35.99%, hidden fees, and complex contract terms can result in a $5,000 pet purchase ultimately costing families up to $16,000.
Complaints about these practices are concentrated in Central and South Florida counties such as Orange, Pinellas, Duval, Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach. After Orange County imposed retail-sale restrictions and following a consent judgment against a Petland franchise secured by the Attorney General’s office, complaint rates in that area dropped by 55%.
The Haas Center recommends steps such as restricting predatory financing tactics, improving oversight of breeders and animal transporters, and updating Florida’s Pet Lemon Law.
The Office of the Attorney General provides educational programs to help residents avoid frauds like those identified in this report. It offers consumer alerts on scams and supports vulnerable groups including seniors and military veterans through its official website. These services are available statewide in Florida as part of broader public service efforts focused on consumer protection.