Question

My cousin is requesting me to adopt a cat for her and she will keep him. She cannot get him because she lives in an apartment and they are requesting an actual house. I am allergic to cats and although I love them, I do not want the legal responsibilities if she decides she no longer wants him. Is this okay or should I just let it be?

Answer

I think you already know the answer to this question. Of course it is not okay to deceive a shelter, rescue, or anyone else when adopting an animal. Also, many adoption contracts specifically state that the animal will not be given away without the consent of the shelter/rescue. Your cousin should be able to find a shelter/rescue that does not restrict adoptions to people who live in a house. Shelters/rescues do not generally prohibit people from adopting just because they live in an apartment except in certain circumstances where the shelter/rescue believes it is preferable for a dog to have more room and a yard. Also, sometimes people who rent are not accepted for adoption because their leases prohibit pets.

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