Riverside, CA asked in Animal / Dog Law for California

Q: Why is a pound aloud to TAKE a found dog and send it to a rescue?????

i found a bull terrior took her in for a chip chk the inhumance society vet took her. I told him she had pyometra and that I started her on antibiotic. my plan was surgery on the 4th day after searching for owner. when i call them & stated that I had 32 dogs and 1 cat animal control NEVER visited. Now 1 dog has created a big. I say they stole her from the owner and from me.

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2 Lawyer Answers
James L. Arrasmith
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Answered
  • Animal & Dog Law Lawyer
  • Sacramento, CA
  • Licensed in California

A: Under California law, animal shelters, including pounds, have the authority to take in stray animals to protect public safety and the health of the animals. If a dog is found and brought to a shelter, the shelter typically holds the animal for a specific period to allow the owner to claim it. This hold period varies but is commonly around 72 hours.

In cases where a dog shows signs of a severe health issue, such as pyometra, the shelter may act more swiftly to ensure the animal receives necessary medical attention. If the animal is not claimed within the hold period, it can be legally transferred to a rescue organization for further care and potential adoption.

If you believe your rights or the rights of the original owner were violated, you may wish to contact local animal control or legal advice. Be prepared to provide documentation and evidence of your actions and communications with the shelter. It's important to act promptly and follow local ordinances when dealing with lost or found pets.

William John Light
William John Light
Answered
  • Animal & Dog Law Lawyer
  • Santa Ana, CA
  • Licensed in California

A: The dog you found was never yours and, therfore, could not be stolen from you.

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