 I don't mean to yell, but...
PLEASE DO NOT RELEASE THIS MOTHER AND HER PUPS TO THE RIGHTFUL OWNER...
Not just yet, anyway. Sorry, but if your vet literally said what you say he/she did, then he/she's an IDIOT. Just because the bitch's milk supply has depleated or she dried up (they should begin weaning now anyway) doesn't mean that the puppies can leave her. They should be w/ her for socialization as well as comfort and care. If he "dumped" this girl on you, then you have enough invested in the care of this dog and her pups that you are owed some say in the situation. As far as legality goes, I don't know your state, but if a dog is in your care for more than 72 hours it is considered YOURS. Regardless of any verbal contracts. Just because documents lead back to him as being the last owner, does not mean that he gets her back. There are a handful of ways you could go w/ this, but I hope HOPE hope that you can manage to keep these pups for a minimum of another two weeks. Any sort of financial compensation for the feeding of these dogs? If not, and you've invested time and money into this litter, and you've had her and the pups since the whelping...check, but I'm sure she's now considered yours! You've had her and the pups for weeks now! With no written contract.
In either case, it would not be wise to give him back this bitch unaltered or otherwise and w/ these puppies especially. From your post, he's displayed no care/concern or responsibility to the reality of this situation. |