Running a rescue is about far more than caring for animals.

Every week, rescue organisations across England & Wales are faced with difficult legal questions that can have significant consequences for the future of a dog, the reputation of the rescue and the valuable time of trustees, staff and volunteers.

What would your rescue do if…

• A former owner demands the return of a dog just days after signing a relinquishment form?
• Someone claims they never consented to the dog being brought into rescue?
• A foster carer refuses to return one of your dogs?
• An adopter says your adoption agreement isn’t legally enforceable?
• A breeder relies upon a “rescue back-up” clause and demands the dog is returned?
• A dog in your care is alleged to have bitten a person, another dog or livestock?
• Someone threatens your rescue with a claim for compensation?
• The Police contact you following an incident involving one of your dogs?
• What do you do if you suspect a dog is a banned breed type?
• You discover conflicting microchip records and several people claiming ownership?
• You’re unsure whether a dog can legally be rehomed?
• You receive complaints about barking dogs or allegations that one of your dogs is dangerously out of control?
• You want legal advice before making a difficult decision involving one of your animals.

These are exactly the sort of issues that Cooper & Co Solicitors deals with on a daily basis.

Rather than trying to find a solicitor who understands rescue work after a problem has already arisen, The Doglaw Club gives your organisation access to specialist legal support whenever a new issue arises during your membership.

Why choose Cooper & Co Solicitors?

Doglaw is what we do.

Solicitor Trevor Cooper acted in his first Doglaw case in 1994 and has spent more than three decades building one of the UK’s leading specialist legal practices dealing with the law relating to dogs and companion animals.

His contribution to the world of dogs has been recognised through national awards including:

🏅 The Dogs Trust Phyllis Mayer Argus Medal

Awarded in recognition of “long and distinguished service on behalf of dogs.”

🏅 PRO Dogs Lesley Scott-Ordish Memorial Award

Awarded in recognition of an “outstanding contribution to the world of dogs.”

Over the years Cooper & Co Solicitors has advised:

• rescue organisations
• animal charities
• dog owners
• breeders
• behaviourists
• trainers
• veterinary professionals
• dog businesses

throughout England & Wales on thousands of Doglaw matters.

When you join The Doglaw Club, your rescue benefits from that specialist experience.