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Legal rights to a dog I fostered: Will he be depressed if returned?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Rottweiler | Male | neutered | 1 year and 6 months old | 114 lbs

I am in a situation, long story, I took a friends dog in for what was suppose to be 3 months, 3 months turned into 9 months total, she is now back in town and wants to take ownership of said dog. I'm hesitate because we've had him for half of his life (he's 1.5yrs old), we got him neutered, he's made a bond with our other dog and there like fick and frat. I'm concerned that he will be depressed and feel abandoned if we let her take him. He is registered to us. He sleeps with us every night inste

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Dayna, DVM, CVA

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on March 29th, 2018

This sounds like a friendship and ethics/legal discussion Rather than a veterinary question. I would encourage you to discuss your concerns and desires with your friend. If she is not being reasonable about establishing an arrangement then you will probably need to contact animal control in your area to determine the legal requirements of ownership in your state. Best of luck and thank you for using Pet Coach.

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