A pet store chain has been sued in a wrongful death case after a man died from an illness contracted by a pet bought at the store. After purchasing a cockatiel from a Texas PetSmart in 2006, 63-year-old Joe de la Garza contracted psittacosis, which is a bacterial infection carried by certain bird species. The sickness is also known as “parrot fever.” Mr. de la Garza died less than three weeks after being infected with the disease. His daughter was also hospitalized from the illness.  

A spokesperson for PetSmart stated that when good hygiene is practiced, it is very unlikely that a human will contract psittacosis. However, late last year, the sale of birds was temporarily stopped country-wide after a threat of the illness.

If you reside in southern California and have suffered a serious illness or injury, contact the law firm of Estey & Bomberger.