Transferring Ownership through a Written Agreement
A written agreement provides a clear and legally enforceable record of the ownership transfer. It should include the following information:
- Names and contact information of the current and new owners
- Date of the transfer
- Detailed description of the dog, including breed, age, gender, and any unique markings
- Any applicable fees or compensation involved in the transfer
- Signatures of both the current and new owners
Additional Details for Transferring Ownership through a Written Agreement
To ensure a smooth and legally sound transfer, consider the following additional details when drafting the written agreement:
1. Veterinary Records: Attaching copies of the dog’s veterinary records to the agreement provides proof of health and vaccinations.
2. Microchip or Tattoo Identification: If the dog is microchipped or tattooed, include the identification number and registration information in the agreement.
3. Proof of Purchase or Adoption: Providing proof of purchase or adoption documents (e.g., adoption contract, receipt of purchase) helps to establish the current owner’s legal right to transfer ownership.
| Document Type | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Proof of Purchase | Receipts or invoices showing the purchase of the dog |
| Adoption Contract | Legal agreement between the shelter and the adopter outlining the terms of adoption |
| Breeder’s Certificate | Issued by the breeder and containing information about the dog’s lineage and health |
Notarizing the Ownership Transfer
Once the transfer document has been completed and signed, it’s essential to have it notarized. Here’s how to do it:
Locate a Notary Public
Find a notary public in your area. You can search online or contact your local government office for a list of notaries.
Schedule an Appointment
Contact the notary to schedule an appointment for the notarization. Bring the transfer document and your identification (e.g., driver’s license, passport) to the appointment.
Prepare the Document
Ensure that the transfer document is complete and signed by both the former and new owners. The document should include the following information:
- The dog’s name, breed, and age
- The former owner’s name and address
- The new owner’s name and address
- The date of the transfer
- The signatures of both the former and new owners
Notary Process
At the notary’s office, the notary will:
| Action | Description |
|---|---|
| Identify the Signers | The notary will verify the identities of both the former and new owners using their identification. |
| Witness Signatures | The notary will witness the former and new owners signing the transfer document. |
| Notarize the Document | The notary will stamp and sign the document, indicating that they have witnessed the signatures and verified the identities of the signers. |
Notifying Microchip Companies
Microchips serve as a crucial tool for identifying and locating lost pets. When transferring ownership, it’s of utmost importance to notify the microchip companies. This step ensures that the new owner’s contact information is updated in the database, increasing the chances of a successful reunion in case the dog goes missing. Many microchip companies have online portals or phone lines dedicated to ownership transfer.
Follow these steps to ensure a smooth transfer:
- Gather the dog’s microchip number, usually found on the microchip itself or on the registration paperwork.
- Contact the microchip company and request an ownership transfer form.
- Complete the form with the new owner’s contact information, including name, address, phone number, and email address.
- Pay any applicable transfer fees.
- Submit the completed form to the microchip company.
- Provide the new owner with a copy of the updated microchip registration for their records.
- If the dog has multiple microchips, repeat the transfer process for each one to ensure comprehensive coverage.
| Microchip Company | Contact Information |
|---|---|
| AVID | 1-800-336-AVID (2843) |
| HomeAgain | 1-888-HOMEAGAIN (466-3242) |
| PetLink | 1-303-384-7387 |
Transferring Ownership of Kennel Club Registration
If you are transferring ownership of a dog that is registered with a kennel club, you will need to take steps to transfer the registration into your name. The process will vary depending on the specific kennel club, but there are some general steps that you will need to follow.
1. Contact the Kennel Club:
The first step is to contact the kennel club where the dog is registered. You will need to provide them with the dog’s registration number and the name of the current owner.
2. Obtain a Transfer Form:
The kennel club will send you a transfer form that you will need to complete. This form will include information about the new owner, such as their name, address, and contact information.
3. Sign the Transfer Form:
Both the new and old owners need to sign the transfer form. The form must be notarized in order to be valid.
4. Submit the Transfer Form:
Once the transfer form is signed, it must be submitted to the kennel club. The kennel club will process the transfer and update their records.
5. Pay the Transfer Fee:
Most kennel clubs charge a fee for transferring ownership of a dog. The fee will vary depending on the kennel club.
6. Update the Dog’s Microchip:
If the dog is microchipped, you will need to update the microchip information with the new owner’s contact information.
7. Update the Dog’s License:
If the dog is licensed, you will need to update the dog’s license with the new owner’s information.
8. Considerations for Puppies:
If you are transferring ownership of a puppy that is not yet registered with a kennel club, you will need to register the puppy in your name before you can transfer ownership. The process for registering a puppy will vary depending on the kennel club. Typically, you will need to provide the kennel club with the puppy’s pedigree, vaccination records, and other documentation.
How to Transfer Ownership of a Dog
Transferring ownership of a dog requires legal documentation and proof of identity. The process varies by state, but typically involves filling out a transfer of ownership form and providing proof of the new owner’s identity. Some states may also require a veterinarian’s certification of health for the dog.
To transfer ownership of a dog, you will need:
- The original adoption or purchase paperwork for the dog
- A transfer of ownership form (which can be obtained from your local animal shelter or veterinarian)
- Proof of your identity (such as a driver’s license or passport)
- Proof of the new owner’s identity (such as a driver’s license or passport)
Once you have completed the transfer of ownership form, you will need to sign it in front of a notary public. The notary public will then witness your signature and provide a certification that the document is valid.
Once the transfer of ownership form has been notarized, you will need to provide it to the new owner. The new owner will then be responsible for registering the dog in their name with their local animal control agency.
People Also Ask About How to Transfer Ownership of a Dog
What if I don’t have the original adoption or purchase paperwork for the dog?
If you do not have the original adoption or purchase paperwork for the dog, you may be able to obtain a copy from the animal shelter or veterinarian where you adopted or purchased the dog. You may also be able to provide other proof of ownership, such as a veterinary record or a photo of you with the dog.
Can I transfer ownership of a dog to someone who lives out of state?
Yes, you can transfer ownership of a dog to someone who lives out of state. However, you will need to follow the transfer of ownership procedures for both your state and the new owner’s state.
What if the new owner changes their mind and wants to return the dog?
If the new owner changes their mind and wants to return the dog, you are not legally obligated to take the dog back. However, you may be able to work with the new owner to find a suitable solution, such as placing the dog in a new home.
