Washington, DC asked in Animal / Dog Law for District of Columbia

Q: My friend went to jail. His dog was taken by animal welfare. The owner had the SPCA contact me to care for his dog

During his incarceration. I received no compensation for four months of "dog sitting." I received nothing to cover his expenses. The dog was released to me by the SPCA, however it wasn't an adoption. I just took him as a favor to his owner. Can I legally keep this dog when his owner is released?

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1 Lawyer Answer

A: Why would you want to keep someone else's dog from them? The dog may be legally considered abandoned, but it depends on the facts. I hear nothing about any dog-sitting contractual obligations. More details are necessary to provide a professional analysis of your issue. The best first step is an Initial Consultation with an Attorney. You can read more about me, my credentials, awards, honors, testimonials, and media appearances/ publications on my law practice website. I practice law in CA, NY, MA, and DC in the following areas of law: Business & Contracts, Criminal Defense, Divorce & Child Custody, and Education Law. This answer does not constitute legal advice; make any predictions, guarantees, or warranties; or create any Attorney-Client relationship.

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