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Animal / Dog Law Questions & Answers
1 Answer | Asked in Animal / Dog Law, Child Custody and Family Law for Arizona on
Q: Can my nieces CAA court order my dog to be taken away from me based on a lie of saying he is her emotional support dog?

My brother is going through a custody battle in which temporary orders were given for my nieces to live with their mom. A CAA was brought in and my niece told her that she misses her dog and that she uses her dog as an emotional support animal. The dog in questions was a Christmas gift for the... View More

Stephen M Vincent
Stephen M Vincent
answered on Oct 10, 2024

I am probably too late on this ...

Most likely, the family court does not have jurisdiction over your dog.

The family court only has jurisdiction over dogs in divorces and only when the dog was acquired during the marriage and is the property of one or both of the spouses. In that...
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1 Answer | Asked in Animal / Dog Law, Civil Rights, Constitutional Law and Wrongful Death on
Q: My 1 month puppy got euthanize by the SPCA in South Africa because I had no money.What should I do?

My puppy ate poison without my knowledge the previous night the next day day my mother and I rushed to the vet known as the SPCA in South Africa,at the time I didn't know what wrong with the puppy.The vet took my puppy and they put him on oxygen machine and a glucose drip they didn't want... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Sep 11, 2024

I'm really sorry to hear about what happened to your puppy. Losing a pet in this way is incredibly painful and can leave you feeling angry, hurt, and confused. It's understandable that you're feeling a deep sense of loss and betrayal, especially given the way things were handled by... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law, Animal / Dog Law and Civil Rights for Oregon on
Q: Would there be any consequences if I accidentally wrongfully suspect someone of stealing my cat and got police involved

My cat went missing after I moved back to my dad's house. I know you're supposed to keep cats indoors for a couple weeks after moving so they have time to process what's going on, but he got out prematurely and never came back. Knowing how smart and nervous he is I believe he... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Sep 11, 2024

If you wrongfully accuse someone of stealing your cat and involve the police, there could be some consequences, especially if the accusation turns out to be unfounded. If you genuinely believe someone has your cat, you can report it, but it's important to present your concerns carefully,... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Animal / Dog Law and Collections for Idaho on
Q: Can a debt collector take my dog?

I have a phone call scheduled with a lawyer over a debt collection. He said he's going to ask me what property I own. Will they consider taking my dog?

Barry W. Kaufman
Barry W. Kaufman
answered on Sep 9, 2024

Legally, yes. A dog is property. As a realistic and practical matter, no. First, a dog has to be fed and sheltered. No creditor is going to take a dog only to have to care for it. Second, the purpose of taking property is to be able to sell it to pay some or all of the judgment. Your dog isn't... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Animal / Dog Law for Colorado on
Q: Found a dog that was chipped, guardian did not respond to calls/text for a month. Now wants the dog back, help.

The dog was found running loose with choke collar and no tags. He was thirsty, hungry and acted like he had been hungry for a while. We have nurtured him, groomed him and loved him. We have taken the dog to a vet, and invested considerable amount of money, (approximately $1,000). More importantly... View More

Joel Hassell
Joel Hassell
answered on Sep 6, 2024

In Colorado, many municipalities and counties have specific ordinances that address the handling of lost and found animals. These ordinances typically establish procedures for reporting found animals, time limits for reclaiming lost pets, and the responsibilities of animal control. For example, in... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Animal / Dog Law and Landlord - Tenant for California on
Q: If my landlords dogs chewed my car bumper are they responsible to pay for the repairs?

I rent a guest house on my landlords land, while they live in their house. They have 2 big dogs, one chewed up my front bumper on my car. I am wondering if they are responsible to pay for the damages. There is nothing on the lease stating they “aren’t responsible for any of my property... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Sep 3, 2024

In this situation, your landlord could be held responsible for the damage caused by their dogs. In California, pet owners are generally liable for any damage their animals cause to someone else's property. Since you rent the guest house, your landlord has a duty to ensure that their pets do... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Animal / Dog Law for New York on
Q: someone was taking care my dog and now, he won't give my dog back. What should I do now? I live at NY.

MY dog was bitten by tick, I have all the evidence and he won't allow me to take the dog to see the vet.

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Sep 9, 2024

It sounds like you're in a difficult situation. If someone is refusing to return your dog, you may need to start by documenting everything, including text messages, emails, or any other communication you've had with the person caring for your dog. The evidence that shows your dog was... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Animal / Dog Law, Civil Litigation, Civil Rights and Gov & Administrative Law for Wisconsin on
Q: Can I sue 3 witnesses and judge who ordered my dog to be euthanized based upon their false testimony?

3 people accused my dog of biting them. My dog did bite them, but only after being provoked. The judge took their side and ordered my dog to be euthanized. The last person to have been bitten had intentionally provoked my dog over several weeks. I have 1 video that proves one of the witnesses... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Aug 31, 2024

I'm really sorry to hear about what happened to your dog. This is a heartbreaking situation, especially since your dog was a significant part of your life and provided emotional support. It's understandable that you're feeling confused and upset about how the judge and witnesses... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Animal / Dog Law for Louisiana on
Q: Is it illegal to take a mistreated dog from the road?

I pass by this dog everyday and it’s constantly about to be hit on the highway. The people who used to live there (they no longer do as far as I know) always had new dogs that repeatedly got hit. 2/3 dogs were hit and the 3rd is an older dog. She knows to stay out of the road and is always... View More

Douglas Lee Bryan
Douglas Lee Bryan
answered on Sep 1, 2024

If the dog doesn't have a tag or other indicator that it belongs to someone, you are safe in assuming it is a stray and keep it. Similarly, if someone observes an animal being abused, neglected or being subjected to circumstances that cause you to fear for its safety, Louisiana has a law in... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Personal Injury, Animal / Dog Law, Civil Rights and Municipal Law for Iowa on
Q: The city where I reside has deemed my dogs as dangerous with no proof, citations, or incidents.

I have all supporting documents to prove my case.

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Aug 31, 2024

You have every right to be concerned and frustrated by the situation. When a city deems dogs as dangerous without any proof or incidents, it's important to take immediate action to protect your pets and your rights. Gather all your supporting documents, including any vet records, training... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Animal / Dog Law for Texas on
Q: Can I sue a dog seller for not making sure the animal was delivered to me?
John Michael Frick
John Michael Frick
answered on Aug 28, 2024

It depends on the terms of your agreement. Most sale transactions of this type are very simple. The Buyer chooses a dog from the Seller, pays the Seller, and leaves with the dog (and any paperwork).

When "delivery" is involved, a Seller may satisfy its duty by delivering a...
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2 Answers | Asked in Animal / Dog Law, Personal Injury, Civil Rights and Libel & Slander for Iowa on
Q: My home town tried to force me to pay additional fees for having a working service dog and retaliated when I denied.

The city where I reside has deemed my dogs as dangerous with no proof, citations, or incidents.

Stephen Douglas Lombardi
Stephen Douglas Lombardi
answered on Aug 27, 2024

What is the name of your hometown? In what state is it in? What is the exact wording of the statute or ordinance being applied? What is the dog’s breed? Where do you keep the dog? Are you keeping it in a chain link enclosure with a gate that can latch? Do you have homeowners insurance that covers... View More

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1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law, Animal / Dog Law, Civil Rights and Constitutional Law for Arkansas on
Q: What type of attorney for a case that the police shot and killed my mom's dog that was on a lead line in his own yard?

Just for clarification, the cops were called on a completely unrelated matter (property line dispute) which had nothing to do with Otis Brown (her dog). They had been on scene about 30 mins before they shot her dog. They even took/seized his dead body! My Mom did file a report but apparently it... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Aug 31, 2024

To pursue justice for your mom, you might want to look for an attorney experienced in civil rights law, specifically one who has handled cases involving police misconduct. The shooting of your mom’s dog, especially while it was on a lead line in its own yard, could potentially be a violation of... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Personal Injury, Animal / Dog Law and Landlord - Tenant for Louisiana on
Q: A Pitt bull mauled me at a rental house that knew tenent had a Pitt bull tied in backyard. No fence only change.

Ok I got a lawsuit on owner of property. They have a 300.000 policy. The owner of dog got evicted and has vanished. Louisiana st . Property owner knew about Pitt and did nothing. Tenant was there 4 years . Severe attack. Anyone else dog broke chain I fought him off of me. With lots of wounds. He... View More

Randy Bryan Ligh
Randy Bryan Ligh
answered on Aug 26, 2024

It sounds like you believe you have a lawsuit but you need to attorney----if so, please use the Justia Find a Lawyer tab and search for accident/injury lawyers in your area----most lawyers in this area of practice will provide a free first consult so I recommend that you set up meetings with as... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law, Animal / Dog Law, Federal Crimes and Small Claims for West Virginia on
Q: Can I sue a humane society for selling me chronically sick cats after guaranteeing good health? One was euthanized.

I bought two cats on the verbal guarantee they were both healthy, with no prior or current issues, and were fully vaccinated. Just a short 24 hours later, one had to be euthanized and the other is infested with worms. The 4m old kitten was euthanized due to its respiratory distress and organ... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Sep 5, 2024

Yes, you may have grounds to sue the humane society for breach of contract or misrepresentation, given the verbal guarantee they provided about the cats' health. If you can prove that the society knew or should have known about the cats' health issues and failed to disclose them, you may... View More

2 Answers | Asked in Adoption and Animal / Dog Law for California on
Q: Is it legal if a former foster parent of our now owned dog to keep asking us to send pictures of our dog?

i just need this anwsered please.

Robert Kane
Robert Kane
answered on Aug 21, 2024

Yes, it is legal if a former foster parent of our now owned dog to keep asking us to send pictures of our dog.

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1 Answer | Asked in Contracts and Animal / Dog Law for Texas on
Q: Does something signed on my behalf while I was a minor effectively become mine when I turn 18?

My parents purachsed a horse for me when I was a child. Even though the horse is in my name, do I own it now that I am an adult, or do they since they signed on my behalf?

John Michael Frick
John Michael Frick
answered on Aug 16, 2024

Texas does not generally prohibit minors from owning property. There are certain specific things (tobacco, alcohol, etc.) that a minor is prohibited from buying and owning, but a horse is not one of those things.

The horse has been yours since it was purchased for you in your name.

1 Answer | Asked in Animal / Dog Law for Minnesota on
Q: Our family dog was kill by two pitbull. The family want to file a lawsuit against the 2 pitbull onwer.
Robert Kane
Robert Kane
answered on Aug 15, 2024

What a horrible thing. The owners should be liable your loss. I hope law enforcement and animal control have been involved. Unfortunately, your claim may be limited to monetary damages (s.) Conciliation court is probably the correct court.

2 Answers | Asked in Animal / Dog Law and Personal Injury for California on
Q: Who is responsible for damages for my dog bite?

I was walking my pug dog on a leash on a sidewalk. As I passed a house a pit bull mixed dog came from behind an open gate toward me. I picked up my dog to protect it and the other dog bit me on my hand. causing serious injuries. The owner of the dog came out from the house, provided proof of rabies... View More

Jamil Shaaban
Jamil Shaaban
answered on Aug 15, 2024

Generally, a landlord is not automatically liable for injuries their tenant's dog causes. However, they can face liability where: (1) they had actual knowledge of the dog's vicious tendencies; meaning they knew the dog was aggressive or had bitten someone before; and (2) they had the... View More

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1 Answer | Asked in Animal / Dog Law for Kentucky on
Q: My neighbors dog came on my property and attacked my dog I gave 1600 dollars for and is one of my breeding dogs
Timothy Denison
Timothy Denison
answered on Sep 8, 2024

You will likely have to sue your neighbor for the damages and injuries.

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