Legal Question in Civil Litigation in New Mexico

Who owns the dog?

Pit bull puppy given to me, Free to give to my friend who wanted her. I gave to my friend. Now owner wants friend to pay $100. Was never the agreement. Original owner says she will call the police and prove the pup is hers. But I don't think this is true, but who has the legal standing here, and who now owns the dog, legally. How do I handle this? Both friend and I are getting at least 10 calls each a day from this women wanting $100. Originally told pup had papers, friend said she would return pup, but wanted vet fees, expenses for crate, food and had reciepts for $180. Or she would give her the $100 but wanted the papers. Original owner now says she threw the papers out, because she didn't think she would need them, but still wants $100. What do we do?


Asked on 4/04/06, 9:20 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Charles Aspinwall Charles S. Aspinwall, J.D., LLC

Re: Who owns the dog?

A gift, once given, may not be legally ungiven. When the dog was given to you the original owner lost all claim to the animal, and may not assess a charge, after-the-fact, to anyone, including the dog's present owner. Also, there are legal penalties for telephone harassment.

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Answered on 4/04/06, 10:13 am


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