In California, pets are generally considered property under the law, and if you have proof of ownership, such as adoption papers or veterinary records, it can strengthen your case. Since you had possession of the dog before and have evidence of your previous ownership, you may have legal grounds to reclaim your pet.
To get back the dog, you will need to sue your ex in court. You will need to prove ownership of the dog to get full possession of the dog. Evidence will be bill of sale or contract to buy the dog, vet bills, microchip owner in the dog, food and care bills for the dog, etc.
Legally would be the person who purchased the dog. Unless you gave it to another person as a gift or surrendered it to a shelter or other such organization.
If your dog has been taken wrongfully, perhaps by a family member, or ex non-marital partner, it is possible to use the property status of your animal to obtain a judgment. Replevin is an effective civil remedy to get your dog back.
Contact Animal Control or Local Authorities: If the person refuses to return your dog, you can contact local animal control or the police. Provide them with the evidence of ownership and explain the situation. They may be able to assist you in getting your dog back.
Answer. People who believe that their animal is being wrongfully withheld can commence a civil lawsuit (such as a replevin action) to try to get the animal returned and can also contact the police, although the police do not usually get involved in pet custody disputes.
Replevin is the type of civil action used to recover possession of personal property which has been unlawfully taken and kept or lawfully taken and unlawfully kept. The plaintiff may also be entitled to monetary damages.
The Complaint: The complaint in replevin typically must include: (i) a description of the property to be replevied; (ii) its value; (iii) its location if known; and (iv) the material facts upon which the claim is based – in other words, why the filing party is entitled to seize the property that has been taken.