When we were considering adopting Oatmeal, the stray, I was told that (according to PA law atleast) if you feed/house/care for an animal for a certain length of time, you are considered the owner...don't if it is true or how the laws work where you are but I am definitely behind you and your sister! Buddy deserves a new life with someone who cares...and aren't brothers a pain? (I have 3...)