No matter who you buy from, be it Joe Schmo from Craigslist or the best breeder in town, it is illegal to exchange money for a dog without a veterinarian-signed health certificate.
I work at an animal hospital, and twice today I dealt with sick puppies fresh from the breeder. Better to insist on a health certificate for that perfect dog than to have to drop 2 grand on hospitalization due to Parvovirus.
14 US states also have a Lemon Law pertaining to dogs, giving you 14 days to report infectious diseases, and a year to report hereditary diseases. When reported to the breeder, they are required to refund your payment in return for the dog.
Health certificates are easy to procure from any vet, just make an appointment(and actually have a healthy dog!).
If you’re breeding or selling, be safe and go with that health certificate.
