I’m starting a new thread to talk about my situation.
Here’s the deal: I used to have a little Yorkie that I had to part with — much to my heartbreak — back in June 2014 because I was moving house. My mum found a former colleague of hers who was willing to take her in. I let her go for free, even though it went against my heart. I regretted it the very second I did it, but I didn't dare say anything at the time. I finally plucked up the courage two months ago and called this lady to tell her I’d made a mistake. She listened and said it was okay for me to get her back, but as she’d given the dog to her partner, she had to discuss it with him first. He wasn't having any of it, so she told me she’d try to find a solution.
I called her again a few days ago and she told me the matter is now closed and she doesn't want to hear another word about it. I’m not looking for judgement or any lectures; I’m just looking for help or some advice on how to get my dog back through legal means.
Just to be clear, I never signed any transfer of ownership papers and I still have the pet passport and the microchip registration card.
Thanks in advance to anyone who takes the time to read this and reply.
Translated from French
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Good evening, I’ve had her since she was a tiny baby, and she’s been with us for two years now. He lives right next to a main road, which is a bit worrying.
Evening,
This is a tough situation to be in. If you’re sure your dog is happy with his new owners, could you maybe get another one?
How old was he when you rehomed him?
Avatar 21: I didn't post this thread to be judged or deal with remarks like that. I did it to get advice from people who are neutral to the situation and can share their knowledge. If you’re not up to that, or you don't approve of my approach, then don't bother leaving pointless comments.
I’ll probably get some stick for this comment (actually, I couldn't care less 🙂).
I think it’s incredibly selfish of you to want to take "your" dog away from its new owner.
Have you thought about the person who’s been looking after him since you got rid of him (let’s call a spade a spade), or do you just not care? Just because you didn't do things by the book (like handing over the paperwork), do you really think you have the right to take "your" dog back after abandoning him?
The new owner has bonded with him since June 2014 and stepped up to look after him when nobody else wanted him! "Your" dog has almost certainly settled into his new life by now as well.
Now, I’m sure you don't care what I think because it’s not what you want to hear, but try thinking about others for a change instead of just yourself 😔!
Evening all, thanks for all your replies. I’ve got an appointment with my solicitor to discuss the next steps, but I’d really like to avoid getting the police involved or filing a formal complaint if I can. I’d much rather settle things amicably. I think I’ll try writing them a letter...
Look, I’m not saying it’s outright theft straight away, but it could be seen as such. You’ll need to see what the police think (if you go down there) and don’t tell any tall tales—just give them the whole story.
You don’t necessarily have to file a formal complaint; they might suggest just logging the incident at first. There will be an investigation if you provide names when you report it. This means the people involved could be called in for a formal warning. It’s possible the family currently keeping the dog might only be considered a foster family.
You could offer to pay for any expenses they’ve had while looking after the dog—vet bills, dry food—as long as they have proof (invoices), so you can get him back amicably.
Legally, the dog is still yours.
In the meantime, you could send them a recorded delivery letter, keeping a copy for yourself, stating that the dog is still registered in your name and that the paperwork is at your house if they want to check it, and offer them some compensation...
Hi Ciaraciara,
Legally speaking, you should be able to assert your rights since you’re still the dog’s official owner. But if you can’t reach an agreement with the current owner, I can only see a theft report as a way to get things moving.
Mind you, if we’re being completely honest and fair, the current owner’s only mistake was not asking you for the dog’s papers. Reporting them for theft would therefore be a very serious and false accusation.
Before going to the police and starting formal legal action, give this person a call and explain that the dog is still registered in your name, meaning you are still the legal owner. Tell them that you could file a police report; that might just be enough to make them change their mind.
