Question

The lady that was looking in on my pregnant dog took her to the vet and the vet give her two options, kill my dog or surrender her - which she couldn't do either option since own her. Now the vet refuses to give my dog back. Please help.

Answer

People who believe that their animal is being wrongfully withheld can contact the police. Complaints about veterinarians can be made to the Tennessee Board of Veterinary Examiners. A civil lawsuit for money and/or the return of an animal can also be commenced. Consider, however, that there was a reason the dog was taken to the veterinarian. Law enforcement officers, depending on the facts and circumstances, may charge an animal’s “parent” and/or custodian with neglect. Tennessee’s animal cruelty law states that it is unlawful to unreasonably fail to provide “necessary food, water, care or shelter for an animal in the person's custody.” I hope the dog is doing well.

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