Q: I hired this pet sitter to take care of my dogs while I am away at work. She took my youngest dog to a couple for a meet
& greet. I told her I am not looking to adopt him out but would consider if I meet the people & know them. I also told her that I still would like to see him and have play dates with my other dog. For 2 months, I have asked her many times when am I going to see my dog and meet the couple but she kept putting me off. When we finally set up meet, they never showed up. I told her because they made it very difficult for me that I want my dog back but they refused. I called the cops but they would not assist me to get my dog back. We never signed a formal adoption agreement. They are literally holding him and they would only agree to see my dog if I agree not to take him back.I said no. I want him back. What options do I have?
A:
This doesn't really make sense. Your "dog sitter" placed your dog in another home, two months ago, apparently without your permission? You didn't demand it back, but asked to see it? It sounds like the dog was adopted/given away and you consented. A written agreement is formal, but not required.
However, if the dog was given away without your permission, you can sue to get it back or recover its monetary value. If you sue, bring all evidence that the dog is yours, along with some kind of proof of value (receipts, offers for sale of similar dogs, etc.).
Plaintiff’s Claim and ORDER to Go to Small Claims Court; Form SC-100 (Lawsuit for monetary damages)
Request for Court Order and Answer; Form SC-105 (Request for Return of Property, filed with SC-100)
Order on Request for Court Order; Form SC-105A
Proof of Service; Form SC-104
http://www.courts.ca.gov/forms.htm?filter=SC No guaranties that these are the appropriate forms or that a Small Claims Judge will rule in your favor.
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