Legal Question in Civil Litigation in Texas

Pet Adoption

I adopted a 1 yr old male dog (part Golden Retriever, part Collie) from a man who advertised needing to find homes for his 5 dogs due to divorce and no way of caring for them any longer. I drove an hour and a half to pick up the dog which he agreed to let me have. He demanded to me things that are not customary when doing pet adoptions such as telling me not to have the dog neutered until his divorce is finalized....demanding me what type of dog food to feed him and when, and other demands. I ignored them because I didnt want to start a conflict. I have had the dog now for 1 week, we love him and he has bonded with our children and family. I received this email now that states that his wife wants the dog back and her lawyer is demanding the dog be returned in court. Now he wants me to return the dog. I feel the dog is mine and he has lost his rights to him. He claims I signed a paper that stated if the court ordered him to return the dog due to divorce matters I would be obligated to do so. I have no knowledge of such letter. If he has such a letter, he fabricated it and signed my name. What rights do I have now? what can I do? I dont want to lose our dog.


Asked on 3/31/02, 10:55 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
James Grissom Law Office of James P. Grissom

Re: Pet Adoption

Your fact scenario describes a very complicated legal matter concerning community property, separate property and personal property. The least expensive alternative is to return the dog. However, if you want a legal opinion on this matter or desire my representation, contact me by e-mail.

Read more
Answered on 3/31/02, 11:33 am


Related Questions & Answers

More General Civil Litigation questions and answers in Texas