Answer

Contract law does not provide for punishment, except in cases of fraud. If you have evidence that the buyer was abusing the animal, your recourse is to contact law enforcement (police/sheriff) and report the abuse. If you accepted the return of the animal, then the buyer is entitled to her payment. Stopping payment may constitute a fraud on your part, leaving you open to punitive damages,in addition to the original payment amount.

 

I understand that you may feel justified in your actions -- however, the court may find that the law compels a different outcome. So, you may want to consider returning the buyer's money.

 

Hope this helps.

 

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