Question
How can I get my dogs back including a service dog? The county has not charged me with anything yet has taken my dogs whom are healthy & well loved.
Answer
Rights to get animals returned after being seized by animal control would depend on why they were seized. For example, some animals are seized because they are running at large unsupervised. In that instance, the animal’s "parent" can usually retrieve the animal upon the payment of an impound fee as long as the animal’s “parent” does so in a timely manner. The number of days animals must be held to give their “parents” an opportunity to reclaim them varies throughout the country and sometimes even among municipalities within the same state. On the other hand, if an animal is seized because the animal bit someone, sometimes the animal may be held pending a dangerous dog determination. That too depends on the facts and circumstances and state and local law. Animals who are seized because of cruelty or neglect are often allowed to be withheld from the animal’s “parent” pending the outcome of a forfeiture hearing or criminal case. I suggest that you consult with an attorney in your state for possible next steps. Time is of the essence.
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.
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