Can I keep my brother's dog if he abandoned it?

Q: Why do dogs switch on their owners?

Dogs may switch their affection between owners due to changes in their environment, experiences, or social interactions. Factors such as new people, changes in routine, or even how much time each owner spends with the dog can influence their preferences. Dogs are social animals and can form bonds with multiple people.

Q: Can a dog change their favourite person?

Yes, a dog's favorite person can change over time. This may occur due to shifts in their living situation, the amount of time spent together, or changes in the dog's own needs and experiences. Dogs are adaptable and can form new attachments based on their interactions.

Q: Do dogs switch their favorite person?

Yes, dogs can switch their favorite person depending on various factors, such as who spends more time with them, who provides care, or who engages in play. Their preferences can change as they experience new interactions and relationships.

Full question:

My brother came to live with my boyfriend and me for a few months. He had a dog, which also lived in our apartment. My boyfriend and I have spent few dollars on this dog whenever my brother was away. Now my brother has left the apartment leaving behind his dog. I told him to take the dog back but he has not replied. Can I keep the dog forever?

Category: Abandoned Property
Subcategory: Animals
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Washington

Answer:

If your brother has not responded to your request to take the dog back and it’s been more than fifteen days since you notified him, you may be able to consider the dog abandoned. According to Washington law, an animal is presumed abandoned if:

It is left in someone’s care for an unspecified time and is not picked up within fifteen days after the owner receives notice to remove it.
The owner refuses to pay for the animal's care.
It is not removed after a specified time period.

If the dog is deemed abandoned, you can take it to a humane society or notify the sheriff. The sheriff can then dispose of the animal according to the law, which may include selling the dog at public auction. You could potentially bid on the dog and keep it legally. For more details, refer to the relevant laws: Rev. Code Wash. (ARCW) § 16.54.010, § 16.54.020, and § 16.54.030.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

How do you know who your dog's favorite person is?

Dogs often show preference for their favorite person through their behavior. Signs include following that person around, seeking attention, and displaying excitement when they arrive. They may also choose to sit or lie next to their favorite person more often than others. Observing these behaviors can help you identify who your dog's favorite person is.