Q: Can I steal my dog back from a person who stole my dog if he is in public walking him?
I bought a dog for my Girlfriend as a Christmas present, but she wasn’t able to take full custody of the dog because she was unable to have the dog at her house, so we shared the dog. The day I purchased the dog, the breeder mentioned to me if I have issues housing him or if I did t want him anymore, to return the dog to them and they’ll take care of him for me. To make a long story short, my girlfriend and I had to move out if a apartment we lived in due to Covid and had to move back home. We no longer had a stable place for my dog so we asked the breeder to see if we can keep him with the breeder until I’m able to find something stable for my dog. We offered the breeder money for food and troubles but she declined the offer. About a month to month and a half later I found a place for my dog but I come to find out that the breeder gave my dog away to her dad which lives in San Diego. She gave my dog away without my consent. I have shot records and proof of purchase.
A:
You should file a Small Claims action in San Diego (where the Defendant is) for damages and for the return of the dog. The word for "theft" in civil court is Conversion.
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