In CA, the puppy is considered property if payment was canceled in whole then the property is in dispute and it can be taken by police and returned if she reports it (the pup as now stolen) however it can also be considered that you own the puppy but have failed to properly complete payment, and she can simply sue you now for your having canceled the check.
You really need to just send her a check to ensure your pup is actually yours (however it can get nasty and she could refuse payment) so ensure you send it certified mail.
Then you need to file in small claims over this-you can't issu and apply the law yourself and note your own verdict-you have to fully comply with the laws and accept whatever ruling a judge decides.
It would be very worth it to find an attorney who does free consultations and will use that time to advice you on the proper course of action, then tells you at this point your do A, B and C then if D becomes and issue you retain me and we will do the next A, B and C.
I hope it all works out in the best interest of the dogs involved. |