Complaint Review: Romuender German Shepherds

I originally contacted them on September 2, 2020 in regards to purchasing a German Shepherd.  First spoke with the husband, then the wife the following day.  I had recently lost my life partner to cancer and this was a field she was very knowledgeable about and had treated patients with this cancer. We spoke a couple of times and exchanged messages on FB.  They currently did not have any puppies but she had a female dog, 3 years old named Ivy that she was willing to sell.  

She sent me photos and videos of her dogs and Ivy.  Sometimes she would drop a line just to check in.  At this time, Covid was ramping up and traveling to pick up the dog seemed risky but she used a man, Steve Benton, who could transport the dog for the cost of $1 per mile or she thought possibly her son could do it.  I asked about a deposit and she said $1000 and sent me her banking information.  We both banked at Chase so my local bank was able to do a direct $ transfer of funds.  I messaged Karen but she said she was celebrating her mom's birthday and we'd talk later.  In spite of my calls, messages on FB, I have never heard from her again.

 I've sent many messages without a word from either Tim or Karen.  In November I had told her I needed to wait or perhaps even cancel our transaction for now because of COVID.  I did not ever sign any paperwork( she said she would be sending it) nor did we ever discuss loosing a deposit.  In fact, she repeatedly told me to take my time, the dog wasn't going anywhere.  My only recourse is small claims court but I cannot travel to East Texas to file.  Thank you