Question
I bought my dog and registered him under my name with the city, but my girlfriend put her information on the microchip. Since I registered him, does that legally make him mine?
Answer
If a lawsuit if commenced regarding ownership of the dog, the court will look at the totality of the evidence to determine rights. Courts may consider who primarily takes care of the animal and who pays for the animal’s needs in addition to who purchased the animal and under whose name the animal is registered (such as microchip, license, and veterinary records). Some courts also consider the well-being of the animal when determining custody. Ideally, people who “share” an animal would amicably agree on a custody/visitation arrangement that is in the best interests of the animal.
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