Question
Can I get my dog back if my spouse surrendered the dog to a shelter while we were separated?
Answer
I suggest you immediately contact the shelter to see if they will give the animal to you. When an animal’s owner surrenders his/her animal, such person generally has no further rights to that animal. A shelter may take the position that a separating spouse who left the animal behind also has no rights to the animal. People who believe that their animal is being wrongfully withheld can sue to try to get the animal returned. Once an animal is re-homed, it becomes even more difficult to get the animal returned so it is very important to act quickly in these situations.
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