My question involves a consumer law issue in the State of: CA
I put a 30% deposit for a purebred puppy on 6/27 with a private breeder. She provided me with a hand-written receipt which indicated the amount of the deposit, the amount owed upon picking up the animal, and the date the animal would be available for pickup.
Less than 24 hours later, I asked if I could back out of the transaction, as my husband decided he didn't want the puppy. She said I could, but she would keep my deposit. Her online ad did not state that the deposit was non-refundable, nor did she write this on the receipt. When I asked her about this, she said that it is "assumed" that the deposit is non-refundable. I explained that I'd never "bought" an animal before and was not aware of such practices. I offered to let her keep half of my deposit for her time and trouble, but she would not relent.
I'm wondering, do I have any chance of reclaiming my deposit? Are there any laws surrounding these situations?
Thank you.

