Alissa Black | Breeder since 2002 | Educator and Author
📞 Text Alissa for Puppies: (570) 765-1878
Male Guardianship Contract (UPDATED DRAFT)
Welcome to the Muddy Mastiffs Guardian Program
At Muddy Mastiffs our goal is to raise exceptional English Mastiffs while ensuring every breeding dog enjoys life as a loved family companion. Rather than housing every promising dog in a kennel, we like to place our pick of the litter puppies in local guardian homes. This allows them to grow up sleeping on couches, going on vacations, playing with children, and enjoying everyday family life while still preserving outstanding bloodlines for the future.
Being a guardian is basically like having a full time pet that occasionally earns a title or makes babies. Many guardian dogs never end up being used in our program for a variety of reasons, even if they turn out top quality. But we like to preserve the option if one develops into something truly special and all the stars align.
Our goal is to interfere with your life as little as possible. If the dog is selected for breeding or showing, we will schedule activities with reasonable notice and work around your family's schedule whenever practical.
This Agreement between Muddy Mastiffs (“Seller”) and the Guardian listed below is entered into on this date:
Guardian Information
Name:
Address:
City/State/Zip:
Phone:
Email:
Puppy Information
Registered Name:
Call Name:
Date of Birth:
Sex:
Color:
Identifying Details:
Microchip Number: (in puppy packet)
Microchip Note: We paid for lifetime enrollment in AKC reunite. Make sure you add yourself as an owner, so you are notified if he ever gets lost.
Sire:
Dam:
Purchase Price:
Deposit Paid:
Balance Due:
Date Balance to Be Paid: prior to receiving puppy
Payment Method: Cash or Zelle
Note: If balance is not paid as planned, this agreement will be void, and the seller will retain the puppy.
Guardian Home Agreement
This dog is being placed through the Muddy Mastiffs Guardian Home Program. The Guardian understands that this is not a traditional pet purchase.
The Guardian will have full-time possession of the dog and is considered the dog’s owner in all ways except for breeding and show. The Guardian is responsible for providing proper nutrition, training, routine veterinary care, exercise, socialization, and all other normal responsibilities of pet ownership.
Muddy Mastiffs retains breeding and showing rights. The dog should remain unfixed unless he is retired from the Guardianship program.
Many dogs are never used and are retired from the program by their third birthday. Some dogs may be used more extensively and never retired due to contributing to a semen bank.
Both the Guardian and Muddy Mastiffs agree to communicate openly, treat one another with respect, and work together in good faith.
Whenever possible, Muddy Mastiffs will attempt to resolve misunderstandings through discussion before exercising any rights or remedies provided under this Agreement.
Guardian’s Initials ________
Ownership & Registration
For all practical purposes (other than breeding and showing), we will consider the Guardian the dog’s owner.
Because AKC litter registrations, dog show registrations, and semen banks require the owner to fill out paperwork, we usually find it easier to list someone from Muddy Mastiffs as owner on the AKC registration while he is in the Guardianship program. If he does successfully freeze genetic material he could be making babies many years after his passing. Each of those litters requires paperwork filled out by the owner after it is born.
This is really in name only on the paperwork as, again, Muddy Mastiffs will consider the Guardian the owner in all ways except for showing and breeding.
Muddy Mastiffs is happy to share pedigrees, Championship certificates, or photos of the registration upon request.
Guardian’s Initials ________
Retirement from the Guardian Home Program
If, by the dog's third birthday, Muddy Mastiffs determines that he will not participate in the breeding program, the dog will be retired from the Guardian Home Program and his AKC registration will be signed over to the Guardian.
Guardian’s Initials ________
Benefits to the Guardian
The main benefit to Guardian is getting to enjoy a pick of the litter puppy for its lifetime and getting bragging rights if the dog becomes a Champion or Grand Champion.
If the dog successfully earns a title and produces puppies for Muddy Mastiffs, the Guardian will receive a $500 credit toward a future Muddy Mastiffs puppy.
Guardian’s Initials ________
Finances
The Guardian is responsible for all the normal costs of being a pet owner. Things like food, veterinary care, toys, etc. are all part of his purview.
Muddy Mastiffs is responsible for breeding costs if they choose to use the dog. And these costs are substantial. It could cost anywhere from $6,000 to $30,000+ to health test, show, collect semen, etc.
For this reason, Muddy Mastiffs will be very selective about which males it uses. And it won’t always come down to the quality of the dog. Sometimes it could come down to something else like: budget constraints, being related to the females, another male available, etc.
Because Muddy Mastiffs’ upfront investment is so substantial, if they do choose to use a dog they will retain any money that comes in from stud service, as a lot of it will just be used to repay the initial investment.
Guardian’s Initials ________
Showing, Health Testing & Semen Collection
If the dog is chosen to remain part of Muddy Mastiffs’ breeding program, here is what the process usually looks like.
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Around a year old we evaluate him for structure and fertility.
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Around 18 months we begin health testing and showing.
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At two years old we complete his health testing and start freezing semen and/or arranging dates.
Guardian’s Initials ________
Working Around Your Schedule
Muddy Mastiffs understands that the dog is first and foremost a beloved family companion. Whenever reasonably possible, breeding-related activities will be scheduled in advance and coordinated around the Guardian's work, family, and vacation plans. Our goal is to interfere with the Guardian's normal life as little as reasonably possible while still preserving the opportunity to evaluate, show, health test, collect semen, and breed the dog if he proves exceptional.
Guardian's Initials: ________
Guardian Responsibilities Regarding Breeding
The Guardian understands that this dog is part of the Muddy Mastiffs breeding program.
Accordingly, the Guardian agrees that:
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The dog shall not be bred, intentionally or unintentionally, without the prior written approval of Muddy Mastiffs.
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The dog shall not be neutered, vasectomized, chemically sterilized, or otherwise rendered incapable of reproduction without the prior written approval of Muddy Mastiffs. If he is retired from the Guardian program he is allowed to be fixed.
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The Guardian agrees to make the dog reasonably available, with reasonable advance notice whenever practical, for approved health testing, dog shows, semen collection, veterinary reproductive examinations, and breeding-related activities.
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The Guardian agrees to take reasonable precautions to prevent accidental breedings.
Any unauthorized breeding or unauthorized sterilization shall constitute a material breach of this Agreement.
The Guardian shall have no authority to authorize or register any litter produced by this dog except with the prior written approval of Muddy Mastiffs.
Guardian's Initials: ________
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The remaining portion of the contract mostly mirrors a portion of our limited registration contract.
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1. Health Disclosure Acknowledgement
​Guardian acknowledges that Seller has completed Embark DNA testing on the parent dogs.
Guardian acknowledges that OFA health testing has not yet been completed on the parent dogs at the time of purchase.
Guardian acknowledges that this information was disclosed prior to purchase.
Guardian understands that the purchase price reflects this disclosure.
Guardian’s Initials: __________
2. Veterinary Examination Acknowledgement
​Guardian agrees to have the puppy examined by a licensed veterinarian within 72 hours of possession or else waive their right to any refund.
If a licensed veterinarian who examines the puppy within 72 hours of possession determines that the puppy was suffering from a serious communicable disease that existed prior to transfer, Guardian must provide written veterinary documentation to Seller.
In this case, Guardian may return the puppy within seven (7) days of purchase for a partial refund.
Deposit, transportation expenses, veterinary expenses, medications, diagnostic testing, and related expenses are not refundable.
Guardian understands that failure to have the puppy examined by a licensed veterinarian within seventy-two (72) hours of possession voids this initial communicable disease guarantee.
Guardian’s Initials: __________
3. General Health Guarantee Acknowledgement
​Seller guarantees that the puppy is believed to be healthy and free of known serious communicable diseases at the time of transfer. Any known problems have been disclosed. The puppy has been vaccinated, dewormed, and vet-checked.
​Seller follows a strict deworming and anti parasite routine for puppies, so no fecal samples have been checked by a vet. It is normal for Guardians to continue routine deworming and parasite treatment throughout a dog’s life or, alternatively, to have the vet check to see what specifically to treat.
Since pups are so young, Seller does not use toxic chemicals to prevent fleas, ticks, or lice unless a problem is detected.
Guardian is responsible for ongoing parasite prevention, flea/tick prevention, vaccinations, and routine veterinary care after transfer.
​This guarantee does not cover parasites, stress-related diarrhea, minor respiratory symptoms, coccidia, giardia, or conditions that commonly occur during puppy transition unless a veterinarian determines that the condition was serious, communicable, and present prior to transfer. Every effort is made to ensure pups are healthy at the time of transfer.​
Except as specifically stated in this Agreement, Seller makes no guarantees regarding future size, color, fertility, show quality, breeding ability, temperament, bite, ear set, structure, movement, longevity, or future health outcomes.
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Guardian’s Initials: __________
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4. Puppy Acceptance Acknowledgement
Guardian acknowledges that they have personally inspected the puppy or have accepted photographs, videos, and information regarding the puppy prior to purchase.
​Guardian accepts the puppy in its present condition except as specifically provided by the health guarantee contained in this Agreement.
​Guardian understands that puppies change as they mature and that Seller does not guarantee adult size, appearance, structure, personality, or show potential.
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Guardian’s Initials: __________
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5. Responsible Ownership Agreement
​Guardian agrees to provide proper food, clean water, shelter, veterinary care, exercise, training, supervision, and humane treatment throughout the dog’s lifetime, including appropriate shelter and protection from extreme weather conditions. In cold winter climates, reasonable heat must be provided in the winter. In hot weather climates, reasonable cooling must be provided in the summer. Seller understands that dogs can handle more than people and just asks that that dog is cared for with empathy.
​Guardian agrees not to neglect, abuse, abandon, or intentionally place the dog in an unsafe environment or in a situation that will cause undue suffering.
​Guardian agrees to comply with all applicable local, state, and federal laws regarding dog ownership.
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Guardian’s Initials: __________
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6. Giant Breed Acknowledgement
​Guardian understands that English Mastiffs are giant-breed dogs and will grow very large and very slobbery.
Guardian plans to be able to handle giant size and slobber and will not get rid of the dog for those reasons in the future.
Guardian understands that giant-breed puppies require careful growth management, proper nutrition, appropriate exercise, and responsible veterinary care.
​Guardian agrees not to over-exercise the puppy or encourage activities that may place unnecessary stress on developing joints. Normal running and playing is fine.​
Guardian agrees to research and feed foods that are compatible with large breed growth.
Guardian agrees NOT to feed regular puppy kibble because it can cause growth issues in giant breeds due to the Calcium/Phosphorus ratio. Adult kibble or Large Breed Puppy kibble is acceptable. Raw feeding is also acceptable. Toppers and treats are fine as long as the bulk of the puppy’s diet is properly formulated.
At the time of this contract, Seller is feeding the puppy Diamond Naturals Large Breed Puppy kibble mixed with a little Purina One Lamb canned puppy food to make it more appetizing during weaning.
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Guardian’s Initials: __________
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7. Rehoming Acknowledgement
Seller can only breed in good conscience if none of Seller’s puppies end up in shelters or in bad homes.
Guardian agrees not to sell, give away, transfer, surrender, abandon, place, or otherwise rehome the dog without first offering the dog back to Seller. Seller shall have the first right to take possession of the dog.
This is mainly done to keep dogs out of shelters, and if the Guardian has a solid plan in place for a new home it will probably be approved. In some cases the dog might be breeding quality and added back to Seller’s program instead.
​Guardian understands that return of the dog to Seller shall not entitle Guardian to any refund, reimbursement, purchase price recovery, boarding fees, veterinary reimbursement, travel reimbursement, or any other compensation.
​Guardian understands that registration and ownership must transfer back to Seller at time of surrender.
​If Guardian transfers, sells, gives away, surrenders, abandons, or rehomes the dog without first offering the dog back to Seller, Guardian agrees to pay Seller liquidated damages in the amount of $5,000.
​Guardian shall also be responsible for reasonable attorney fees, court costs, and collection costs incurred by Seller in enforcing this provision.
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Guardian’s Initials: __________
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8. Deposits, Payments, and Cancellations
​Guardian acknowledges that deposits are non-refundable except when Seller is unable or unwilling to provide Guardian with a puppy.
​A deposit reserves Guardian’s place on Seller’s reservation list and may reflect Guardian’s preference for sex and, when possible, color.
​A deposit does not guarantee a specific puppy unless otherwise agreed in writing.
​Seller reserves the right to retain any puppy from any litter for show, breeding, evaluation, or guardianship placement.
​If Seller elects to retain a puppy and is therefore unable to provide Guardian with an available puppy, Guardian may receive a refund of the deposit or transfer the deposit to a future litter.
​If Guardian voluntarily cancels, changes their mind, fails to complete the purchase, fails to pick up the puppy within the agreed timeframe, or otherwise declines an available puppy, the deposit shall be forfeited.
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Guardian’s Initials: __________
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9. Pickup Requirements
Puppies are expected to be picked up at eight (8) weeks of age unless other arrangements have been approved in writing.
​Puppies must be picked up within seven (7) days of becoming available unless other arrangements have been approved in writing.
​If the puppy has not been picked up by nine (9) weeks of age and no prior written arrangements have been approved, Seller reserves the right to cancel the sale, place the puppy with another family, and retain the deposit.
This is done in the puppy’s best interest, as it is easiest to find good homes before 12 weeks.
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Guardian’s Initials: __________
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10. Microchip
​Guardian agrees to maintain current microchip registration information and keep contact information updated throughout the life of the dog. The seller will place the microchip number in the puppy packet. Seller has paid for Lifetime AKC Reunite enrollment.
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Guardian's Initials: _________
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11. Photographs
​Guardian grants Seller permission to use photographs, videos, show results, and health information relating to the dog for advertising, educational, recordkeeping, and promotional purposes.
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Guardian's Initials: _________
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12. Right to Refuse or Cancel Sale
​Seller reserves the right to refuse or cancel a sale if Seller determines that the placement is not in the best interest of the puppy.
​If Seller cancels the sale for this reason before transfer of the puppy, any monies paid by Guardian shall be refunded.
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Guardian’s Initials: __________
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13. No Verbal Modifications
​Guardian acknowledges that no verbal promises, guarantees, or representations have been made other than those specifically contained in this written Agreement.
​Any changes to this Agreement must be made in writing and signed by both Guardian and Seller.
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Guardian’s Initials: __________
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14. Enforcement and Attorney Fees
​If Seller must take action to enforce this Agreement, Guardian agrees to be responsible for reasonable attorney fees, court costs, filing fees, collection costs, and other expenses incurred by Seller.
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Guardian’s Initials: __________
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15. Governing Law
​This Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and adjudicated in Snyder County Pennsylvania.
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Guardian’s Initials: __________
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16. Entire Agreement
​This Agreement represents the entire understanding between Guardian and Seller.
​Guardian acknowledges that they have read this Agreement, understand its terms, and agree to be bound by it.
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Guardian’s Initials: __________
Guardian Signature
Guardian Signature:
Printed Name:
Date:
Seller Signature
Seller Signature:
Printed Name: Alissa Black
Kennel Name: Muddy Mastiffs
Date:
Male Guardianship Contract (ORIGINAL DRAFT)
This Agreement is entered into on this date: ______________________________
between Muddy Mastiffs (“Seller”) and the Guardian listed below.
Guardian Information
Guardian Name: ______________________________________________
Address: _________________________________________________
City/State/Zip: ___________________________________________
Phone: _________________________________________________
Email: _________________________________________________
Puppy Information
Registered Name: Muddy Mastiffs’_________________________________________
Call Name: ______________________________________________
Date of Birth: ___________________________________________
Sex: _________________________________________________
Color: ________________________________________________
Microchip Number: ________________________________________
Sire: _________________________________________________
Dam: _________________________________________________
Purchase Price: $_________________________________________
Deposit Paid: $__________________________________________
Balance Due: $___________________________________________
Date Balance Paid: _______________________________________
Payment Method: _________________________________________
1. Male Guardian Home Agreement
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This dog is being placed in a guardian home.
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Guardian understands that this is not a standard pet purchase or breeding rights agreement.
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Guardian shall have possession of the dog as a family companion, where he can live out his days being loved on a couch rather than in a kennel. But this is still very much a breeding dog in Muddy Mastiffs' program, to be used or not used at Muddy Mastiffs' sole discretion.
Guardian is purchasing a high-quality companion dog while participating in Muddy Mastiffs' guardian home program.
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Muddy Mastiffs retains all registration rights, breeding rights, showing rights, advertising rights, semen collection rights, frozen semen rights, and reproductive rights associated with this dog.
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Guardian acknowledges that the purchase price reflects this arrangement.
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Guardian's Initials: __________
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2. Giant Breed Nutrition and Growth
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Guardian understands that English Mastiffs are a giant-breed dog and require appropriate nutrition during growth and development.
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Guardian agrees to provide a high-quality dog food appropriate for the dog's age, size, and activity level.
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While the dog is actively growing, Guardian agrees to feed a Large Breed Puppy food or another diet specifically formulated for controlled large-breed growth.
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Guardian understands that standard puppy foods are generally not recommended for giant-breed puppies because excessive growth rates may contribute to developmental orthopedic problems and other health concerns.
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After the dog reaches physical maturity, generally around twenty-four (24) months of age, Guardian may transition the dog to a quality Large Breed Adult food or another nutritionally appropriate diet.
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Adult foods may be acceptable during portions of the growth period; however, Muddy Mastiffs currently recommends Large Breed Puppy food during active growth.
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Guardian agrees to maintain the dog in healthy body condition and avoid excessive weight gain during development.
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Guardian's Initials: __________
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3. Purchase Price and Guardian Status
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Guardian acknowledges that the purchase price paid for this dog does not purchase breeding rights, semen rights, frozen semen rights, stud service rights, advertising rights, showing rights, or reproductive rights.
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Any additional amount paid for first pick, pick of litter, color preference, size preference, sex preference, or selection priority shall not alter the terms of this Agreement.
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Regardless of purchase price, Muddy Mastiffs retains all breeding rights, showing rights, semen rights, collection rights, frozen semen rights, advertising rights, and reproductive rights associated with this dog.
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Guardian's Initials: __________
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4. Ownership and Registration
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Guardian acknowledges that AKC registration ownership may remain solely with Muddy Mastiffs or may be held in co-ownership with Muddy Mastiffs.
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Guardian acknowledges that possession of the dog does not transfer breeding rights, registration rights, litter registration rights, or reproductive rights.
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Guardian agrees to execute any documents reasonably necessary to maintain Muddy Mastiffs' ownership interests under this Agreement.
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Upon written retirement from the guardian program, Muddy Mastiffs may transfer full ownership and registration rights to Guardian at its sole discretion.
5. Registered Name Requirement
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Guardian agrees that the dog’s registered name shall begin with the kennel prefix: “Muddy Mastiffs’” in the possessive case. For example: Muddy Mastiffs’ Nena.
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Guardian agrees not to remove, alter, abbreviate, replace, or intentionally omit the Muddy Mastiffs’ kennel prefix from the dog’s official registration records.
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If Guardian removes, alters, abbreviates, replaces, or intentionally omits the Muddy Mastiffs’ kennel prefix, Guardian agrees to pay Seller liquidated damages in the amount of $10,000.
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Guardian shall also be responsible for reasonable attorney fees, court costs, and collection costs incurred by Seller in enforcing this provision.
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Guardian’s Initials: __________
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6. Breeder Discretion
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Guardian understands that Muddy Mastiffs retains sole discretion regarding whether and how the dog is used for showing, health testing, semen collection, advertising, breeding, frozen semen storage, or any other breeding-related activity.
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Guardian acknowledges that Muddy Mastiffs is under no obligation to:
• Show the dog
• Health test the dog
• Collect semen from the dog
• Freeze semen from the dog
• Advertise the dog at stud
• Breed the dog
• Arrange breedings
• Generate stud fee income
• Use the dog for any breeding-related purpose
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Guardian understands that decisions regarding the dog's use may be influenced by budget limitations, kennel goals, market demand, health concerns, scheduling constraints, competing priorities, changes in breeding plans, or other factors.
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Guardian understands that many puppies are placed in guardian homes, and not all can be used equally. The dog will be competing for top spot in Muddy Mastiffs' program along side other top quality dogs. Muddy Mastiffs retains the right to choose which dogs to invest heavily in and which dogs to promote.
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Guardian acknowledges that a decision not to use the dog for showing, breeding, semen collection, advertising, or any other breeding-related purpose shall not constitute a breach of this Agreement and shall not result in any transfer of breeding rights, ownership rights, financial compensation, reimbursement, or other consideration to Guardian.
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Guardian's Initials: __________
7. Breeding Rights
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​Muddy Mastiffs retains all breeding rights to this dog.
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Guardian shall not unreasonably refuse access to the dog for approved breeding-related activities.
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Guardian shall not advertise, offer, negotiate, approve, arrange, or participate in any breeding involving this dog without the written permission of Muddy Mastiffs.
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All stud fees, breeding income, collection income, frozen semen income, and related reproductive income belong exclusively to Muddy Mastiffs.
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Any unauthorized breeding shall constitute a material breach of this Agreement.
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Guardian agrees to pay liquidated damages in the amount of $15,000 per unauthorized litter.
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Guardian shall also be responsible for attorney fees, court costs, and collection expenses.
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Guardian's Initials: __________
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8. Intact Status
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Guardian agrees that this dog shall remain intact.
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The dog shall not be neutered, vasectomized, chemically sterilized, or otherwise rendered incapable of reproduction without prior written authorization from Muddy Mastiffs.
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Violation shall result in liquidated damages of $15,000.
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Guardian's Initials: __________
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9. Breeding Availability
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Guardian agrees to make the dog reasonably available for approved breedings, semen collections, health testing, show events, and related breeding program activities.
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Muddy Mastiffs shall provide reasonable notice whenever possible.
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Guardian understands that breeding-related activities may occasionally require the dog to be away from the Guardian's home for a reasonable period of time.
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Guardian's Initials: __________
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10. Showing, Collection, and Health Testing
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Muddy Mastiffs retains all showing rights to this dog.
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Guardian agrees to make the dog reasonably available for dog shows, photography, advertising, health testing, semen collection, veterinary reproductive evaluations, and related activities.
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Muddy Mastiffs shall provide reasonable notice whenever possible.
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Guardian's Initials: __________
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11. Transportation Requirements
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For dogs residing within twenty (20) miles of Muddy Mastiffs, transportation may be provided by Muddy Mastiffs.
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For dogs residing more than twenty (20) miles from Muddy Mastiffs, Guardian shall be responsible for transporting the dog to and from scheduled breeding-related appointments, health testing appointments, semen collection appointments, veterinary reproductive appointments, and show-related activities.
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Transportation costs shall be the responsibility of Guardian unless otherwise agreed in writing.
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Muddy Mastiffs shall make reasonable accommodations for distance travel more than 1.5 hours from guardian's residence at time of placement. This may include hiring transport, for which the dog shall be available.
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If Guardian relocates farther from Muddy Mastiffs than the residence disclosed at the time of placement, Guardian shall be responsible for any additional transportation requirements created by the move.
Guardian's Initials: __________
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12. Health Testing
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Muddy Mastiffs shall determine what health testing is required for breeding purposes.
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Guardian agrees to make the dog available for such testing.
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Muddy Mastiffs shall be responsible for the cost of breeder-requested health testing.
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Guardian's Initials: __________
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13. Photographs, Videos, and Evaluations
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Most guardian home dogs will live normal lives as beloved family pets and may never be shown, bred, or otherwise used by Muddy Mastiffs.
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However, regular evaluations are an important part of identifying the most promising candidates for our breeding and show program.
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If you are fortunate enough to have one of these dogs, you agree to participate in the evaluation process a few times each year.
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Upon reasonable request, Guardian agrees to provide current photographs and videos of the dog, which may include:
• Headshots
• Stacked photographs
• Movement videos
• General photographs and videos
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These evaluations help Muddy Mastiffs and our handler assess the dog's development, structure, movement, health, and overall potential as it matures.
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Guardian agrees to make a reasonable effort to provide requested photographs and videos within fourteen (14) days of the request.
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Guardian's Initials: __________
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14. Guardian Incentives and Breeding Income
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Guardian acknowledges that Muddy Mastiffs retains all breeding rights, stud rights, semen rights, frozen semen rights, collection rights, advertising rights, and reproductive rights associated with this dog.
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All stud fees, breeding income, collection income, frozen semen income, and related reproductive income belong exclusively to Muddy Mastiffs.
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Guardian understands that Muddy Mastiffs may invest substantial time and financial resources into evaluating, health testing, advertising, collecting, showing, promoting, and developing this dog.
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Accordingly, Guardian shall have no ownership interest in breeding income, stud fees, semen sales, collection fees, or other reproductive income generated by the dog.
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As a token of appreciation for participation in the guardian program, Guardian may be eligible for the following incentives:
• If the dog earns an AKC Championship title, Guardian shall receive a $500 credit toward the purchase of a future Muddy Mastiffs puppy.
• If the dog earns an AKC Championship title and completes breed-appropriate health testing acceptable to Muddy Mastiffs, Guardian shall be entitled to one complimentary stud service for a future female owned by Guardian, subject to breeder approval and health testing requirements.
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In the event that the dog achieves exceptional success as a breeding animal, Muddy Mastiffs may, at its sole discretion, provide additional bonuses, gifts, credits, or other compensation to Guardian.
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Any such bonus shall be voluntary, discretionary, and shall not create an ongoing obligation or entitlement.
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Guardian's Initials: __________
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15. Change of Contact Information
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Guardian agrees to notify Muddy Mastiffs within thirty (30) days of any change in address, phone number, email address, or residence.
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Guardian understands that communication is an important part of the guardian program and agrees to maintain current contact information throughout the duration of this Agreement.
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Guardian's Initials: __________
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16. Death of Dog
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Guardian agrees to notify Muddy Mastiffs within seven (7) days if the dog dies or is euthanized.
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Guardian agrees to provide available veterinary records or cause-of-death information upon request.
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Guardian's Initials: __________
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17. Health Disclosure
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Guardian acknowledges that Seller has completed Embark DNA testing on the parent dogs.
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Guardian acknowledges that OFA health testing has not yet been completed on the parent dogs at the time of purchase but is planned.
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Guardian acknowledges that this information was disclosed prior to purchase.
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Guardian understands that the purchase price reflects this disclosure.
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Guardian’s Initials: __________
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18. Veterinary Examination
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Guardian agrees to have the puppy examined by a licensed veterinarian within seventy-two (72) hours of possession.
If a licensed veterinarian determines that the puppy was suffering from a serious communicable disease that existed prior to transfer, Guardian must provide written veterinary documentation to Seller.
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In this case, Guardian may return the puppy within seven (7) days of purchase for a refund of the purchase price.
Transportation expenses, veterinary expenses, medications, diagnostic testing, and related expenses are not refundable.
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Guardian understands that failure to have the puppy examined by a licensed veterinarian within seventy-two (72) hours of possession voids this initial communicable disease guarantee.
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Guardian’s Initials: __________
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19. General Health Guarantee
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Seller guarantees that the puppy is believed to be healthy and free of known communicable diseases at the time of transfer. The puppy has been vaccinated, dewormed, and vet-checked.
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However no fecal samples have been checked by a vet. Since pups are so young, the seller does not use toxic chemicals to treat fleas, ticks, or lice unless a problem is detected. Guardian is responsible for ongoing parasite prevention, vaccinations, flea/tick treatment, and routine veterinary care after transfer.
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This guarantee does not cover parasites, stress-related diarrhea, minor respiratory symptoms, coccidia, giardia, or conditions that commonly occur during puppy transition unless a veterinarian determines that the condition was serious, communicable, and present prior to transfer.
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Except as specifically stated in this Agreement, Seller makes no guarantees regarding future size, color, fertility, show quality, breeding ability, temperament, bite, ear set, structure, movement, longevity, or future health outcomes.
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Guardian’s Initials: __________
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20. Puppy Acceptance
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Guardian acknowledges that they have personally inspected the puppy or have accepted photographs, videos, and information regarding the puppy prior to purchase.
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Guardian accepts the puppy in its present condition except as specifically provided by the health guarantee contained in this Agreement.
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Guardian understands that puppies change as they mature and that Seller does not guarantee adult size, appearance, structure, personality, or show potential.
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Guardian’s Initials: __________
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21. Responsible Ownership
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Guardian agrees to provide proper food, clean water, shelter, veterinary care, exercise, training, supervision, and humane treatment throughout the dog’s lifetime, including appropriate shelter and protection from extreme weather conditions. In cold winter climates, heat must be provided in the winter.
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Guardian agrees not to neglect, abuse, abandon, or intentionally place the dog in an unsafe environment.
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Guardian agrees to comply with all applicable local, state, and federal laws regarding dog ownership.
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Guardian’s Initials: __________
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22. Giant Breed Acknowledgement
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Guardian understands that English Mastiffs are giant-breed dogs.
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Guardian understands that giant-breed puppies require careful growth management, proper nutrition, appropriate exercise, and responsible veterinary care.
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Guardian agrees not to over-exercise the puppy, force repetitive jumping, or encourage activities that may place unnecessary stress on developing joints.
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Guardian agrees to research and feed foods that are compatible with large breed growth. Guardian agrees NOT to feed regular puppy food. Large breed puppy food or adult food are acceptable.
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Guardian’s Initials: __________
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23. Transfer / Rehoming / Right of First Refusal
Because this dog is part of Muddy Mastiffs' breeding program, if Guardian can no longer keep the dog for any reason during its lifetime, the dog shall be returned to Muddy Mastiffs.​​
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Guardian agrees not to sell, give away, transfer, surrender, abandon, place, or otherwise rehome the dog without first offering the dog back to Seller.
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Guardian agrees not to surrender the dog to a shelter, rescue organization, auction, research facility, pet store, broker, or similar organization.
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Seller shall have the first right to take possession of the dog.
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Guardian understands that return of the dog to Seller shall not entitle Guardian to any refund, reimbursement, purchase price recovery, boarding fees, veterinary reimbursement, travel reimbursement, or any other compensation.
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Guardian understands that registration and ownership must transfer back to Seller at time of surrender.
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If Guardian transfers, sells, gives away, surrenders, abandons, or rehomes the dog without first offering the dog back to Seller, Guardian agrees to pay Seller liquidated damages in the amount of $5,000.
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Guardian shall also be responsible for reasonable attorney fees, court costs, and collection costs incurred by Seller in enforcing this provision.
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Guardian’s Initials: __________
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24. No Shelter or Rescue Surrender
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Guardian agrees that this dog shall never be surrendered to a shelter, rescue organization, pound, animal control facility, research facility, auction, broker, puppy mill, pet store, or similar organization.
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If Guardian is unable or unwilling to keep the dog, Guardian must contact Seller first.
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Violation of this section shall be considered a material breach of this Agreement and may result in liquidated damages in the amount of $5,000, in addition to any attorney fees, court costs, and collection costs incurred by Seller.
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Guardian’s Initials: __________
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25. Deposits, Payments, and Cancellations
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Guardian acknowledges that deposits are non-refundable except when Seller is unable or unwilling to provide Guardian with a puppy.
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A deposit reserves Guardian’s place on Seller’s reservation list and may reflect Guardian’s preference for sex and, when possible, color.
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A deposit does not guarantee a specific puppy unless otherwise agreed in writing.
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Seller reserves the right to retain any puppy from any litter for show, breeding, evaluation, or guardianship placement.
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If Seller elects to retain a puppy and is therefore unable to provide Guardian with an available puppy, Guardian may receive a refund of the deposit or transfer the deposit to a future litter.
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If Guardian voluntarily cancels, changes their mind, fails to complete the purchase, fails to pick up the puppy within the agreed timeframe, or otherwise declines an available puppy, the deposit shall be forfeited.
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Guardian’s Initials: __________
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26. Pickup Requirements
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Puppies are expected to be picked up at eight (8) weeks of age unless other arrangements have been approved in writing.
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Puppies must be picked up within seven (7) days of becoming available unless other arrangements have been approved in writing.
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If the puppy has not been picked up by nine (9) weeks of age and no prior written arrangements have been approved, Seller reserves the right to cancel the sale, place the puppy with another family, and retain the deposit.
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Guardian’s Initials: __________
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27. Microchip
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Guardian agrees to maintain current microchip registration information and keep contact information updated throughout the life of the dog.
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Guardian's Initials: _________
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28. Photographs
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Guardian grants Seller permission to use photographs, videos, show results, and health information relating to the dog for advertising, educational, recordkeeping, and promotional purposes.
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Guardian's Initials: _________
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29. Right to Refuse or Cancel Sale
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Seller reserves the right to refuse or cancel a sale if Seller determines that the placement is not in the best interest of the puppy.
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If Seller cancels the sale for this reason before transfer of the puppy, any monies paid by Guardian shall be refunded.
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Guardian’s Initials: __________
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30. No Verbal Modifications
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Guardian acknowledges that no verbal promises, guarantees, or representations have been made other than those specifically contained in this written Agreement.
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Any changes to this Agreement must be made in writing and signed by both Guardian and Seller.
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Guardian’s Initials: __________
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31. Enforcement and Attorney Fees
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If Seller must take action to enforce this Agreement, Guardian agrees to be responsible for reasonable attorney fees, court costs, filing fees, collection costs, and other expenses incurred by Seller.
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Guardian’s Initials: __________
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32. Governing Law
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This Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
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Guardian’s Initials: __________
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33. Entire Agreement
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This Agreement represents the entire understanding between Guardian and Seller.
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Guardian acknowledges that they have read this Agreement, understand its terms, and agree to be bound by it.
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Guardian’s Initials: __________
Guardian Signature
Guardian Signature: _______________________________________
Printed Name: _________________________________________
Date: _______________________________________________
Seller Signature
Seller Signature: _______________________________________
Printed Name: Alissa Black
Kennel Name: Muddy Mastiffs
Date: _______________________________________________