Question
My cat disappeared and then showed up at a shelter, Talking with the shelter someone 'owner surrendered' it. He was microchipped and registered to me, I have vet records for him but they are sending him to another rescue and won't provide the rescues name. How can I get my cat back?
Answer
People who believe that their animal is being wrongfully withheld can contact the police and can sue (replevin action) to try to get the animal returned. Time is of the essence since after an animal is re-homed, it becomes very difficult to get the animal returned. According to a recently enacted law in Texas which took effect in September 2021, “As soon as practicable after an animal is placed in the custody of an animal shelter or a releasing agency …, including an animal rescue organization, the shelter, agency, or organization shall scan the animal to determine whether a microchip is implanted in the animal.” If the cat is returned to you, please take special care so that the cat does not go missing again!
PLEASE NOTE: Responses to legal inquiries are not meant to replace seeking legal advice from an attorney in your state. The materials in this website and any responses to questions are for informational purposes only and are not intended, nor should they be construed, as legal advice. This website, the information contained herein, and any responses to questions directed to this column are not intended to create and do not establish an attorney-client relationship. You should not rely or act upon any information provided on this website or in any response to your inquiry without seeking the advice of an attorney in your state regarding the facts of your specific situation.
Send Your Pet Legal Question Now!
Elinor will field as many questions as she can and they will be posted here on this site. Due to the volume of questions received, not all questions are answered. However, many individuals have similar questions. You may find helpful information in the categories listed below.