Jim & Karen Ellerbach
Red flags were there but I failed to recognize them

My husband & I purchased a Goldendoodle female puppy from Jim & Karen Ellerbach in July. I saw their ad in the local paper et called the number. I spoke with Karen & told her I was interested in purchasing a female Goldendoodle from her. I then asked if mother & father were on sight. Karen stated yes.

It was a very hot day in the 90's. When we arrived Karen met us @ the garage door holding a black puppy. The puppy was wet & Karen stated that she had given the puppy a bath. I then took the puppy from Karen, the puppy reeked of cow manure. I then inquired as to where the puppy's mother & father were. Karen stated that her daughter had taken the puppy's mother home for the weekend & that her son had taken the father, the golden retreiver, home for the weekend. This should have been a big red flag to me.

I then asked Karen about hip dysplasia. She stated that she never had a problem with hip dysplasia & that the male dog was going to be OFA certified. We then signed the bill of sale that stated the puppy was gauranteed against genetic defects for 1 year. Hip Dysplasia cannot be diagnosed until 2 years of age.

Nija the black female puppy we puchased from Ellerbach's was diagnosed with mild to moderate Hip Dysplaia. Nija had her left knee operated on. The Anterior Cruciate Ligament that holds the knee was gone she had bone against bone. I went back & watched the surgery, I am a nurse. Nija's right knee also has to be operated on for the same thing. When I questioned two different veternarians as to how this could happen in such a young dog & was it caused by Nija being very active, the answer was no it is genetic.

I should have gotten it in writing what Karen had said to me about Hip Dysplasia. I do believe that their are more people who have had difficulties with the Ellerbach's. Until these people come forward the Ellerbach's will continue to deceive the buyer. We love Nija & would never allow her to suffer. Nija is only 21 months old.

Company: Jim & Karen Ellerbach
Country: USA
State: Iowa
City: Holy Cross
Address: 23363 Tollgate RD
Phone: 5638704975

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