Attorney General Ken Paxton has opened an investigation into an online puppy-selling business, Lone Star Pups LLC, over allegations that it misled Texas consumers about the origins and veterinary care of the animals it sells, the agency announced July 29.
According to the news release, the Caldwell-based company markets doodle and designer dog breeds and advertises that it works exclusively with reputable breeders. The office said records indicate the puppies’ pre-purchase veterinary exams are conducted in Holmes County, Ohio — a region the release described as widely associated with large-scale, and in some cases unethical, commercial breeding operations. Buyers who request specific breeder information are frequently denied it, the office said.
The investigation also questions the company’s health claims. Lone Star Pups advertises that 99 percent of its breeding dogs are certified by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals, a designation reserved for animals that pass a full slate of screenings, according to the release. But the office said an undercover investigation found the company completes only two of the four tests the foundation requires for certification.
The office also scrutinized the company’s “10 Year Health Guarantee.” The release said coverage for major hereditary conditions such as cancer, pancreatitis, autoimmune disease, diabetes, intestinal disease and seizures is in fact capped at three years from a puppy’s birth, and that consumers must maintain ongoing pet insurance to remain eligible. The word “guarantee” appears at least nine times on the company’s homepage, the office noted.
“Purchasing a new puppy is an exciting moment for many Texas families, and that excitement should never be exploited by companies hiding the truth behind false promises and fine print,” Paxton said in the statement. “My office will hold accountable any business that deceives Texas consumers.”
The office said it is investigating whether the company violated the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act and has issued a Civil Investigative Demand seeking documents and information about its business practices.