Question
My ex adopted a dog but when we broke up he told me to keep the dog this was in May of 2022 and he's been registered as my emotional support dog. He just sent a cop to take him back but I refused. Can he take my dog?
Answer
People who give away their animal generally have no further rights to that animal and the person to whom the animal was given generally has no legal obligation to return the animal. If a lawsuit is commenced to try to get an animal returned, the court will consider the evidence presented to determine rights. The police may also be contacted (as you have seen). In the meantime, it may be helpful to have on hand veterinary records, microchip registration, dog license, and evidence that the dog was gifted (even texts and emails) and that the dog has been in your possession for months. If sued, I suggest attorney representation.
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