Candy, like Kobieeli I just now caught up with this thread. First of all, let me commend you for calling to check on Copper! That right there shows that you are a breeder who cares about her pups. I doubt that many breeders do that. I have gotten all 5 of my dogs from breeders and only had one follow-up letter. The breeder was being forced out of her home (had been renting and the house was being sold and was going into an apartment.) She had asked me if I could take Whitney's brother because she knew Whitney was in a good home. Unfortunately I couldn't at the time. Anyway, I say all of that only to point out that you are obviously a very caring, concerned breeder (not that anyone on this board needs reassuring!!!)

Secondly the tales this family are spinning are amazing. When I read that their new trainer is in the Guinness Book I almost laughed out loud! Come on! Get real! It sounds to me like the dog has probably been given to the brother-in-law or at least plans are being made along those lines. Just too much is not ringing true here.

Thirdly, I agree with everyone that your contract sounds like your best chance of getting Copper back. The wording in it couldn't be clearer. I do hope that you can work through this legally and be victorious!

Candy, I know how much you love Dixie, Dusty and all of these pups. You must be heartbroken just thinking of the possible damage that has been done in his development. Hopefully things will wrap up quickly and you can get him back and start to repair this damage. The fact that he was in a crate in the basement makes my blood boil!! I will be thinking of you on Thursday and anxiously waiting for your update. Prayers are going up that you will be successful in getting Copper back.