Question
Hi
I volunteer for a rescue organization and a foster is refusing to return a dog. We have given the foster every opportunity to adopt the dog (adoption agreement-lower adoption fee) and she has not done either. Finally we gave her an ultimatum and a deadline to complete the agreement (that was last night and we haven't heard back). We have two families in wait who want to adopt this dogs and we are left feeling helpless and held hostage by this women. I don't know if authorities are call (the police) whether they will assist returning the dog back to us. If they don't what can we do?
Answer
Persons (and organizations) who believe that their animal is being wrongfully withheld can commence a civil lawsuit (replevin action) to try to get their animal returned. The police can be contacted too (but they usually will not get involved in pet custody disputes or enforcement of foster care agreements). Foster care agreements should specify rights and responsibilities of foster care “parents” and rescue organizations.
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.