Question
Contacted breeder about a puppy, he had one available. Go to breeder, meet dog and buy it (full payment) take possession of puppy and took home. The next day call from breeder said he made a mistake and that he already had a deposit for said puppy, and wanted it back. What are our rights to keep this puppy? Thank you very much for your time.
Answer
People who purchase an animal generally have no legal obligation to return the animal. A breeder who takes a deposit on an animal and then sells the same animal to someone else may attempt to get the animal returned. If the purchaser who has the animal chooses not to return the animal, the breeder, in all likelihood, will have to work out an accommodation with the person whose deposit the breeder has, such as returning the deposit or providing another animal of equal monetary value. With so many wonderful animals at shelters and rescues, next time consider adopting, not shopping. I hope your dog has a happy and healthy life!
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