Question

We are a rescue group who adopted a dog out to people who informed us less than 24 hours later that the dog escaped their fence. They have now stopped payment on their check saying they don't feel that they shouldn't have to pay for said dog. We have a signed adoption contract from them. Is this legal?

Answer

I hope that your rescue placed lost dog flyers around the area where the dog went missing and checked local shelters, veterinarians, social media, etc. The rescue can commence a lawsuit to try to recoup the adoption fee. I cannot predict the outcome of any given case but an adopter who lost an animal would not typically be entitled to the return of the adoption fee.

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