I report the public record for a small town newspaper and run across narratives from the police department that frequently are newsworthy incidents. One such report was from a woman that brought her dog to an animal clinic for treatment and was unable to pay all the bill at once. She offered to pay $20 and pay out the balance which the clinic did not go for and kept her dog. She then supposedly asked central dispatch what she could do to get her dog back as the clinic was continuing to charge a daily fee for housing the dog. They and a lawyer (allegedly) told her no one could prevent her from taking her dog that it was a civil matter. The clinic released the dog to her after forcing her to sign a statement that she acknowledged she owed a fee that she was taking the dog without permission and that charges might be filed against her for theft of services. The policeman that took the report also advised the dog owner that he would seek a warrant for her arrest. My question is can the clinic legally hold the dog for payment? If she tries to make a token payment can the clinic refuse it on the grounds it is insignificant? The two parties have since agreed upon payment arrangements however I am still mulling over the situation whether she received advice that was true whether she had the right to take her dog home and whether a small payment can be denied. Any legal opinions on this situation would be greatly appreciated. Thanks News Reporter