Question
I placed my cat with close friends when I was displaced from my home due to a fire, and they are refusing to give him back. I have a microchip and veterinary records. There was never a discussion regarding ownership, as the arrangement from beginning until now was that I wanted him back. He is my pet. He turned six on May 26, 2019. The length of time that they had him did extend due to circumstances of living in an appropriate living situation. It was discussed at the time of that extension that I was going to want him back. They then discussed with me that they did not want to return him. Our relationship had never been volatile until June 12, 2019 when I asked to discuss when I could retrieve him. They became hostile and refused to give me my cat back. I have called and left messages as well as texts asking to talk. They now won't respond. Our agreement was always that I was going to take him back, and even at the start they expressed that they would never keep him. I have text messages showing that he is my pet.
Answer
People who believe their animal is being wrongfully withheld can sue (replevin action) to try to get the animal returned and can contact the police (although the police tend not to get involved in pet custody disputes between “friends”).
PLEASE NOTE: Responses to legal inquiries are not meant to replace seeking legal advice from an attorney in your state. The materials in this website and any responses to questions are for informational purposes only and are not intended, nor should they be construed, as legal advice. This website, the information contained herein, and any responses to questions directed to this column are not intended to create and do not establish an attorney-client relationship. You should not rely or act upon any information provided on this website or in any response to your inquiry without seeking the advice of an attorney in your state regarding the facts of your specific situation.
Send Your Pet Legal Question Now!
Elinor will field as many questions as she can and they will be posted here on this site. Due to the volume of questions received, not all questions are answered. However, many individuals have similar questions. You may find helpful information in the categories listed below.