My wife and I adopted a dog from Lady A in November 2024, and just last week, we received an email from Lady B showing a TRO that was granted from December 22, 2024, to January 27, 2025. Lady B was granted temporary possession of four dogs, which includes the dog we adopted. Both ladies appeared in court today, but I’m not clear on what happened since the case got extended to Friday. Lady A and her lawyer told me to ignore Lady B’s request to meet at the police department in our city to retrieve the dog. I don’t think Lady B has my exact address, just the city. Lady A’s lawyer says that because I adopted the dog before the TRO was granted, it shouldn’t affect me. I’m just worried if the police would give my address to Lady B… they shouldn’t, right? I shouldn’t have to open the door or give her the dog, should I? I really need to know what I’m legally obligated to do or not do in this situation.
Honestly, I think you need to get the dog microchipped in your name just to cover all bases. Also, keep any vet bills and document all costs related to taking care of the pup. You adopted the dog, so you should fight to keep him.
@Zadie
That’s a good idea, XYZ. I hadn’t thought about the microchip. Thanks for the tip. I’ll definitely keep my receipts, too.
You really don’t have to do anything until you get an actual court summons. Since you aren’t a party to the restraining order, it probably doesn’t apply to you. Lady B sounds like she’s trying to bluff you into giving her your dog.
@Reid
That’s what I was thinking too. Just don’t open the door or comply with her request. It really does sound like a mess between those two ladies.
This whole situation is wild. Given that you haven’t had the dog for too long, I can understand the dilemma. But I wouldn’t want to keep someone else’s dog either. Still, you have legal protections since everything happened before the TRO.
@Wil
Yeah, I definitely didn’t want to find myself in this situation. But I also want to do the right thing. I hope Friday brings some clarity.
If it turns out Lady A sold you a dog that wasn’t legally hers, you might have to return it. But definitely consult a lawyer and make sure you have everything documented.
Hartley said:
If it turns out Lady A sold you a dog that wasn’t legally hers, you might have to return it. But definitely consult a lawyer and make sure you have everything documented.
Exactly. You might have to get your money back from Lady A too. It’s a civil issue at this point.
@Shannon
I’ll have to do that. I just want to see how this all plays out first before making any moves. Appreciate the advice.
Since you’re not named in the TRO, you probably don’t need to do anything at all with the dog. Just protect yourself and wait for the court’s ruling.
Hope said:
Since you’re not named in the TRO, you probably don’t need to do anything at all with the dog. Just protect yourself and wait for the court’s ruling.
Thanks, PQR. That’s a relief to hear. I’ll just keep taking care of my pup and see what happens in court.
@Jane
Keep us updated on what happens on Friday. I hope it works out for you both!