Senate strengthens 'pet lemon law'

Hartford - The state Senate gave final legislative approval early this morning on legislation to strengthen Connecticut's "pet lemon law."

The bill passed the House last week and now goes to the governor's desk.

Pet shops that sell a dog or cat that gets ill or dies of an illness that existed at the time of sale would be required to reimburse the customer up to $500 for veterinarian bills.

The penalty also would apply if a serious congenital defect is diagnosed within six months of the sale.

During the earlier House debate, state Rep. Diana Urban, D-North Stonington, said the legislation will save people the expense of caring for a sick dog or cat that was bred under poor conditions in an animal or puppy mill.