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I recently separated from my partner after living together for several years in an Adult Interdependent Partnership. We have two miniature dachshunds that have always lived together, and I am trying to understand my legal rights regarding who should keep them.
Throughout our relationship, I have been the primary caregiver. I have been responsible for their daily care, including feeding them, purchasing their food and supplies, arranging and attending veterinary appointments, and caring for them while my ex was away for work, which was often for extended periods. Both dogs are registered under my name in accordance with the City of Calgary. I also pay for the young dog's insurance (the older dog does not have insurance).
I have never seen the breeder's contract for one of the dogs, so I do not know whose name is on it or what the ownership terms are. Simply that my ex-partner is the one who arranged the purchase and I was the one who picked the puppy up.
Since our separation, my ex has been sending me threatening and harassing text messages. Because of this, I do not feel safe around him and have considered temporarily taking both dogs to stay with a trusted friend only while he is physically at our shared home, returning with them when he leaves.
Given these circumstances, what factors would an Alberta court consider when determining who should keep the dogs, would my role as their primary caregiver carry significant weight, and could temporarily removing them from the home for their safety and my own negatively affect my legal position?
023 hours ago
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