Do I legally have to take the dog back?

Question

Rehomed a dog to someone. He payed me money for him and got vet records in his name, but wants to make me take him back. I don't want to; do I have to legally take him back?

Kansas, USA

Answer

Sometimes doing the right thing is not the same thing as being right. When an individual sells his/her animal, the purchaser is generally responsible for the animal (including any subsequent rehoming) unless there is an agreement stating otherwise. However, people who have had an animal for a while and then rehome the animal would hopefully want to ensure that the animal is in a loving home. Even if not legally required to do so, that may entail taking the animal back from a new “parent” who has not formed a bond with the animal.

I hope everyone involved considers this dog’s well-being!

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By |2025-07-02T15:45:48-04:00June 13th, 2025|

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