Legal Question in Family Law in Florida
Dog ownership
One of my co-workers decided to go part-time and become a full-time flight attendant. Due to this, she was not able to keep her dog, so she gave her dog to me. She never called to check on the dog, or offered any medical papers. I got the dog on heart worm medicine, hair cut, vaccinations, etc. Two months in she voiced that she wanted to share the dog and I would keep her while she was flying and she would have her while she was in town. She said that she would call me and she never did. She never even came to visit the dog. Now, almost 5 months later, she wants the dog back. I have cared for this dog, fed this dog, walked her, and I love her unconditionally. She GAVE her to me. What are my chances that I can keep the dog?
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Dog ownership
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What was your understanding when you and she entered into the agreement? Was it temporary dogsitting or was the dog given to you? If so, did you register the dog and buy tags with your name as the owner? If so, I think you have the right to keep the dog. If not, if challanged in court, I believe it could go either way. A dog is considered a chattel or personal property under tha law. Your efforts in taking care of the dog will certainly do much to sway the court.
Scott R. Jay, Esq.
Re: Dog ownership
Keep the dog until she takes you to court. I think she has abandoned the dog, unless there are more facts you haven't listed.
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