Question 1423) - If the finder spends so much on a found animal that his expenses equal the value of the animal, what should he do?

A: He should present his case before the judge. If the animal has some benefit the judge will hire it out and spend the rental on the animal's maintenance. If it has no benefit and fears that the maintenance costs wiIl cover the value of the animal then he will sell it and safeguard the price. The better option is to order the maintenance of the animal and the costs will be a debt against the owner.

~ al-Quduri ~