Question
If I have an ex-boyfriend who I left a dog with because I was scared of repercussions if I took the dog, can I get the dog back? She is microchipped in my name. I also have the messages proving that I am the one who adopted her. I also have vet records for her under my name.
Georgia, USA
Answer
I hope that you and your ex will be able to agree on a custody arrangement that is in the best interests of this dog.
People who believe that their animal is being wrongfully withheld can sue to try to get the animal returned. While a microchip, veterinary records, and adoption documents can help to prove “parenthood,” they do not definitively do so. Courts will also consider what transpired after, such as whether there is evidence that an animal was gifted, sold, or abandoned. Moving and leaving an animal behind may (or may not) cause a court to determine that “parenthood” was transferred. The court will consider the totality of the evidence to determine rights. Some courts also consider the best interests of the animal.
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