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The North Carolina Beat
The North Carolina Beat

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Lawsuit Claims Jacksonville Pet Store Sold Sick Puppy and Harassed Customer

A Jacksonville pet store is accused of selling a sick puppy and then harassing the customer who tried to hold the business accountable.

The Purchase

Gerald Jackson purchased a French Bulldog from The Pet Warehouse in October 2025 for $3,000. The store assured him the puppy was healthy, fully dewormed, and properly vetted.

The Discovery

Within 72 hours, Jackson took the puppy to Banfield Pet Hospital where tests confirmed a hookworm infection. When Jackson contacted the store, management allegedly refused to provide required veterinary records.

The Confrontation

According to the lawsuit, Jackson visited the store to discuss the issue. Owner Cheryl Wyman allegedly became hostile, called police, and later posted online that Jackson tried to extort the business.

Jackson denies the accusation and says he simply wanted the store to follow North Carolina law.

State Confirmation

The North Carolina Department of Agriculture investigated and confirmed The Pet Warehouse violated animal welfare laws. The store was fined $400 for:

  • Failing to maintain proper veterinary records
  • Not documenting required deworming treatments
  • Delaying medical care despite observing parasites

The Legal Case

Jackson's lawsuit claims fraud, defamation, and consumer protection violations. He's seeking damages and asking the court to require regulatory compliance before the store can continue operating.

The case is pending in Onslow County Superior Court.

Full story: https://thencbeat.com/nc-blogger-gerald-jackson-sues-the-pet-warehouse/

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