Question
My mother went to jail for a while and wanted me to keep her dog. After jail, she went to rehabilitation for a year. This caused confusion as to what happens to the dog. She never signed the dog over to me and basically has been out for a couple of years. I am her son which means that I am related to her, but I do not know if that means anything. Is there anyway I can keep the dog legally?
Answer
People who believe their animal is being wrongfully withheld can sue to try to get the animal returned. If litigated, courts will consider the evidence presented and determine ownership rights. After two years, it is probably unlikely a court would order the return of an animal but it is difficult to predict the outcome of any given pet custody case. I hope that your family can agree on a pet custody arrangement so that the dog gets the best care possible. Good luck!
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