General query

[Ashleigh Dillon]

Hi there all, I have a query/need some advice. My cousin gave me her dog on a trial base to keep her, she ended up getting caught by my male and had 6 puppies. Would the puppies be mine or both of ours? She wants to take mama dog back when the pups are old enough and wants to keep one of the puppies for herself. Do I have a leg to stand on if I say she can’t have one because I feel like she won’t have the time for 4 dogs especially with having 3 kids.

 

[JudyN]

I don't know what the law is, but would guess that the puppies belong legally to the owner of the bitch, which is your cousin. You should really contact a lawyer specialising in animal law, though.

On a practical note, you now have 6 puppies to find homes for or keep, so it may be better to let her have one unless you really think she won't care for it. Plenty of people do manage to care for large numbers of dogs and children, but you know her best.

 

[merlina]

For the puppies why not contact a Dog Rescue organisation? Dogs Trust or the one near you if it has a good reputation. You won't be paid but there's a huge reward in knowing they will go to excellent homes. PLEASE don't think of selling them- especially for Christmas! They will be impulse buys and may end up in unsuitable places or thrown out. Think of their welfare first.