Question
A friend left her cat with me 3 months ago. After some time she agreed that I should keep the cat but has now changed her mind. She won't be returning for almost another month but also has no job, no home, and we have found out that she has a drug problem. I found out that the cat has not been fixed or had its shots. I would like to keep her and provide her with all of this. Do I have to give the cat back? Truly worried. Thank you.
Answer
Generally when a person gives his/her animal away, such person has no further rights to that animal. Regrets do not equal rights. If litigated, courts will consider the evidence to determine whether an animal was given away, abandoned, or boarded. In determining whether the agreement (including amended agreement) was just for boarding, courts may consider whether the animal’s original “owner” paid for boarding and for how long.
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.