Taking in a stray dog offers joy and challenges. When the original owner resurfaces months later, emotions run high. Your bond with the dog clashes with their emotional attachment to reclaim it. A delicate situation, but what after months?
Two months back, OP and his girlfriend discovered a pup on their lawn. Efforts to locate the owner failed, leading to them adopting the dog. Now, the initial owner demands the pup’s return, asserting theft during a camper heist with cats and another dog.
The protagonist resists giving in, while his girlfriend leans towards returning the pup, feeling remorse. Yet, the original owner’s legal woes lack substantial proof, with no police report on the theft. Preparing for a potential small claims court showdown, the couple even secured a lawyer.
The looming fear: might the original owner resort to force? Read the gripping saga below:
OP asks:
OP and his girlfriend found a puppy on their front lawn over two months ago.
Despite their efforts to find the puppy’s original owner, they were unsuccessful and decided to keep him.
However, the original owner has now surfaced and is demanding the puppy back,
OP posted a lengthy update:
The man is claiming that he had been stolen along with three cats and another dog from their stolen camper.
The original owner has been facing legal troubles, and there is no police report of the theft.
The puppy stayed with them
The man contacted them 65 days later
And…
They refused to meet in person
They are concerned that the original owner may try to take the puppy by force if they find out where they live.
OP has offered the following explanation for why they think they might be the a-hole:
There is a good chance that the person is lying and just saw an opportunity to get a free animal
This Redditor says:
If they were really concerned they would’ve done something about it…
OP and his GF should stand their ground
The whole story does sound suspicious
They should not give him money
The bottom line is :
Caught in this maze, step one is paramount – confirming the claimant’s authenticity as the true owner. Hard evidence is key: demand vet files, adoption records, or a snapshot of them with the dog.
In the absence of proof, tread cautiously. Holding back the dog until you’re absolutely sure they’re legitimate is wise. Once you’re convinced, negotiation is key. Open up about your deep bond with the pup, hoping empathy bridges this emotional gap.