Question
How to get dog back after rehoming under false pretenses? The new owner will not let my children see the dog and the dog is locked in a crate all day long.
Answer
People who rehome their animal generally have no further rights to that animal, including visitation, unless there is an agreement stating otherwise. Verbal agreements can be difficult to enforce without corroborating evidence, in part because disputing parties often recount different versions of their agreement. People who believe that their animal is being wrongfully withheld, based on breach of contract or other cause of action, can sue to try to get the animal returned.
People who suspect that an animal is being mistreated should contact local law enforcement authorities, such as the police, sheriff, animal control, and local humane societies and SPCAs (societies for the prevention of cruelty to animals).
Pennsylvania, USA
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.