Your dog is more than a dog. He or she is like a child to you.
If you’ve lost a pet, you know how painful it can be – you’ve lost a member of your family.
Maybe someone was speeding down your street or was recklessly playing with a weapon – or maybe it was another dog – regardless, your beloved pet is now gone.
And suing someone or taking them to court may be an option for you.
Can you sue someone for killing or injuring your dog or other pet?
Very simply, yes.
You will likely have expenses to recover, but the part that is often fueling our need for justice is the fact that a valuable life was ended or impacted dramatically.
Know that these types of lawsuits can be complicated, so let’s take a look at some of the common issues surrounding them.
All states (and even counties within states) have different rules and procedures for how to handle lawsuits for animal companion injuries and death.
Before you get into a lawsuit, you should research the details of how your state handles these cases.
See the table of states with strict liability for dog bites from Michigan State University’s Animal Legal & Historical Center.
If you meet with an experienced attorney, he or she should know the details of animal cruelty laws in your state and county.
Many courts do not give compensation to a pet owner in this situation other than the replacement cost of the animal.
The legal system often puts dogs and other pets in the “personal property” category, so they will award enough for you to go buy another dog, but nothing else.
There have been courts that have begun to recognize the fact that pets have more value to people than other property, so they are starting to allow for owners to collect compensation for emotional damages and even punitive damages if the injury or death had obvious malicious intent.
Take this case in Canada, for example:
In 2006, the Ontario court case of Ferguson v. Birchmount Boarding Kennels Ltd. (1) was the first Canadian decision, upheld on appeal, to award damages for mental distress associated with the loss of an animal. In Ferguson, the plaintiffs boarded their dog at a kennel while they were on vacation. The dog escaped from the enclosed play area by squeezing between 2 boards in a fence, and was never found. Mrs. Ferguson was emotionally distraught when she heard the news. She suffered from insomnia and nightmares, which required her to take time off work. The Fergusons sued the kennel for damages. The court held that the kennel had not taken reasonable steps to ensure that the fence was secure. Its negligence amounted to a fundamental breach of the boarding contract, such that the kennel could not rely on a waiver of liability that the owners had signed. The Fergusons were awarded $2527, which included $1417 in general damages for pain and suffering associated with the loss of the dog.
This case became the first of many to allow for the owner’s emotional damages (or pain and suffering) to be considered.
Consider how much you might win vs. legal fees you might have to pay
Depending on lawyer fees and court costs, you may spend more than you recover, so that’s also an important consideration. Sometimes lawyers will not take on these types of cases because they don’t often walk away with much.
If they do decide to take on your case, they may also charge you a flat fee, rather than charge you on a contingency basis. Make sure to clarify those details before you proceed with a lawyer.
If you can build a strong case for receiving more compensation, it’s possible to come out with several thousand dollars rather than a couple hundred just to replace your dog. Even though money will never give you back what you lost, it can be helpful for covering any expenses.
For this reason, make sure you keep a record of all of your out-of-pocket expenses (or consequential damages) related to the accident, such as: surgical procedures, veterinary bills, burial costs or therapy and on-going treatment. See a list of documents that can be helpful.
Determining the value of your dog
Because courts generally view a pet as a type of property, you’ll need to be very straightforward about the tangible value of your pet and have concrete evidence of all damages. Here is some helpful information and evidence to gather:
- Replacement cost – If your dog passed away, look up how much it would cost to get another dog. Be able to show proof of the current market value.
- Training/intelligence – Find record of any formal training your dog completed (obedience training, agility training, vocational training, etc.) and specific skills or tricks learned.
- Overall health – Ask your dog’s vet for medical records and even a statement on the overall health of your dog before the accident occurred.
- Breed – The breed of your dog, or whether it was full bred or mixed, could have a big impact on its value. Some breeds are rarer than others, so if your dog is AKC registered, have that documentation on hand.
- Cost of treatment – Keep paper records of any and all treatment for your dog, regardless of whether or not it passed away. Procedures and medications can be costly, so you’ll need and want to get compensated for those.
Recovery options for damages
There are three different approaches to take when you’re seeking compensation for the loss of your pet.
Each situation is different, so you’ll need to determine which approach is best depending on the details of your specific situation.
- Civil lawsuit
If someone has injured or killed your dog, whether it was on purpose or an act of negligence, you can file a civil lawsuit against that person. There has to be enough proof, though, to point to malicious intent or some degree of negligence in order to recover any damages.The type of compensation you receive and how much is allowed varies greatly depending on your state’s rules, so check with an experienced lawyer or your county clerk for specifics.
- Criminal lawsuit
A criminal lawsuit can be filed by itself or in addition to a civil lawsuit if the act was blatantly malicious and purposeful.If the personal responsible broke any animal anti-cruelty laws, they may be sentenced to some jail time, community service, and/or fined. You may also receive added compensation for emotional damages.
- Small claims court
If you’re not able to afford a lawyer, or decide you want to settle the matter without big court costs, you also have the option of small claims court. Some benefits to approaching it this way are:- You can sue without a lawyer
- Cases are resolved much quicker
- The court clerk usually helps you walk through the process
The downside to small claims court is that you can only recover economic damages (or out-of-pocket expenses) but not emotional or punitive damages.
So, you can get compensated for any vet bills and the replacement cost of your pet, but the recovery stops there. There is also usually a limit to the amount you can sue for.
This amount also varies by state, so you’ll want to find out your state’s rules. Generally the maximum amount is between $2,000 and $10,000.
To read more on these options, see this article from the Animal Legal Defense Fund.
Is it worth it?
Every case is different, but if your dog or other pet has been wrongfully injured or killed, it may be worth the legal fight.
NOLO has compiled a long list of case examples that range from an owner receiving $200 for the market value of his dog to an owner being awarded $30,000 for veterinary malpractice.
In order to understand the possible outcomes of your case, seek out legal help from an attorney who has experience with personal injury or property loss and who is familiar with your state’s laws.
Their job is to navigate the legal system and work to recover your losses so you can focus on grieving your beloved pet.
You may want to check out organizations like The Pet Loss Center in Texas for help grieving. Sometimes we don’t allow ourselves to fully grieve because we rationalize that after all, this was a dog, not a human. But you know what? Your attachment to your pet was like that to another human – perhaps even deeper.
What if it was the other way around, and it was YOUR dog that attacked and killed another? See an insightful article from Petful.
Tell us, have you gone through this experience? What would you want others in your shoes to know?
Debbie says
My service dog was towed away in my daughters truck by a repo company and was missing for 8 hrs because tow man failed to report the truck I to phx police she almost didn’t make it plz help me
Jennifer Kain Kilgore says
Hi Debbie — I actually called up the Civil Rights Division in Phoenix to speak with them about what you wrote, since they have an Animal Rights Division as well. It’s taken a while to get hold of a real human being, and he told me to relay that what he said is not legal advice. He says that he is very sorry for what you’ve been through and that you should definitely contact your local Department of Justice (602 514 7500).
Since it technically wasn’t a crime — from what I understand, the repo company towed your daughter’s truck, but they were not doing it for malicious reasons, and they did not know the dog was in the back — the police department might not have a reason to be involved. However, the tower did not report the truck to Phoenix police, which could be a case for negligence, in which case a police report would be needed.
Speaking with the Department of Justice first will be helpful, since they are a federal agency and will have a different perspective. They will also be able to say whether you can sue for negligence against the towing company (which, if they did not report the truck and were supposed to, you might have a case for).
Maria L McClendon says
I need help ,my beautiful Rottie was killed by a Dog Trainer after he had her only 6 hours. We have a contract and a phone Number he told us he knows what he is doing so how is it that my Baby is gone.
Jennifer Kain Kilgore says
Hi Maria — I am so, so sorry for your loss. I can’t even imagine how hard this has been for you and your family.
I have been doing some research into this for you — while the following isn’t meant to replace legal advice, it should hopefully give you something to start with. Based on your comment, I am not sure where you are located, and each state (and sometimes even municipalities) have specific codes and laws. Taking that into account, you will definitely need to check with a local attorney to make sure that what I write coincides with what the law is in your state. However, the following is some basic dog-specific law that can get you started.
Since you have a contract with the trainer, you should have an attorney review it at the very least. If it was drafted by the trainer or the trainer’s company, then it’s going to be very trainer-friendly. The attorney will be able to tell you if the contract will stand up in a court or if it’s just a basic document saying that you have to pay the trainer at a certain time while leaving out bigger details. It is unlikely that the contract provides for a drastic situation such as this, but if it does, the attorney can see how strong the contract is and whether there are any holes.
Your comment did not say how the trainer made mistakes and how the incident occurred, which can make a very big difference as to what type of case this can become. While your local prosecutor could potentially file an animal cruelty charge in criminal court if he determines the trainer acted intentionally, it could have been a terrible accident, in which case you might be compensated for something like negligent infliction of emotional distress. In that type of case, it would be in civil court, and very often it can cost more pursuing justice than what you end up recovering. Obviously that is not the point of something like this — what you want is someone to be held accountable, which I can understand.
Some states take into account the “market value” of the animal (a distressing term, I know), or what it would cost to replace the dog, as well as the “special,” or sentimental, value. Factors for market value would include age, breed, health, training, etc., while factors for special value would include affection and attachment, or whether the dog is a service animal. Some courts might also consider punitive damages, or damages meant to punish, if this is an instance that they do not want to occur again. If this dog died in a way that should not have happened and was not an accident — or the trainer was acting with reckless disregard for your dog’s health — then that might be something a court would consider.
Either way, I believe the first step would be to have an attorney review the contract you signed with the trainer. By overstepping the contract, the trainer would be able to fall back on it anyway, so you have to see if it’s even enforceable. Try finding an attorney in your state, preferably one in your local jurisdiction, who works with contracts and animals. Animal rights is actually a sub-section of law, and you will find some very passionate attorneys who are willing to help.
I hope this offers a foundation for you to start. Again, I am so sorry for your loss.
Chris Burdick says
It doesn’t matter if your pet was killed accidentally or intentionally, they didn’t deserve that and neither do you.
Ask me, you have every right to sue that person, because they’re the one who did it, and they should face justice.
Isabell says
My dog diesel a jack Russell got attacked by a big dog at a happy haven dog kennel in maple ridge b.c.and he was only there one day.and died from his injuries at the vet.can I sue.
Jane Cresswell says
My little dogs are part of our family and what has happened to us is a nightmare. I’ve already spent $25,000 on my living dog’s medical bills. I need an attorney in California. Contra Costa County.
Here is the summary:
I need legal representation to sue a dog trainer/boarder who I hired to board and train my dog Kenzie and board Dolly. Both dogs are bichon poodles. I was going on vacation from May 31-June 18th to Europe. I paid her nearly $2,000 to board and train Kenzie and was told that she would be one on one with Kenzie and Dolly would be there just a couple of days until my daughter picked her up. I have more details and invoices, etc for the info.
On June 1st the day after I arrived in London, the Trainer, called hysterically saying that a random pitbull killed my dog Kenzie and mauled Dolly while on a walk. She said this happened on Thursday May 31st. When she called me it was a day AFTER the supposed attack. She had already had Dolly out of surgery. She said she had not filed an Animal Control report yet but planned to.
She had brought Dolly to East Bay Veterinary Hospital in Antioch for emergency surgery for Dolly on May 31st at 8:30 p.m.
The Vet said that they performed emergency surgery on Dolly on May 31st and that the Trainer had used a fake name and pretended Dolly was her dog. She never mentioned there were 2 dogs involved and Kenzie was dead.
I told the Trainer to bring Kenzie’s body to the vet for examination because her story sounded odd. I also told her to bring Dolly back to the vet for medical attention. I did not want her to have Dolly in her home because I felt her story sounded fake.
The vet said they examined Kenzie’s body and she had horrific injuries from dog bites and they saw that she had been frozen. The vet office contacted Animal Control and will testify to everything that occurred. They also took photos of Kenzie’s body and examined her.
After several days of the Trainer’s lies about what really happened she admitted that HER dog killed Kenzie in her house on May 31st. I also found out she lives in an apartment and was BOARDING animals there??
Turns out the TRAINER’S dog, a Belgian Malanois (police dog) I believe, mauled my dogs while unsupervised. This is within 24 hours of her taking my dogs under her care. She lied about the story about a random Pitbull. So the trainer was negligent and hid the fact HER dog actually attacked my dogs in her home where she was hired to train and board. She never reported anything to me until over a day later probably because she had to clean up everything from the attack in her apartment.
This was a nightmare vacation for us. Dolly has had to have numerous surgeries while I’ve been out of the country. The Trainer said she would pay for the medical bills but now says she has no money. I cannot get any info from her about her liability insurance, credentials, nothing.
Animal Control for Contra Costa County said they can’t do any investigation because I hired the Trainer to board and train my dogs. It is a Civil case. They did get a phone interview with the Trainer about the details and she did admit HER dog attacked my dogs. We have a case number. I also called the Oakley police department…they can’t do anything either.
As of right now, Dolly has been to 3 vet hospitals, has had to have 24/7 care and her medical bills are over $25,000. She had tendons and muscles severed in her neck. She has had 6 surgeries in 21 days and had to have a permanent tracheostomy. I have her home now and getting wound care at my local vet in San Ramon. Dolly’s chances of living without pain and complications of pnemonia are slim.
The grief and agony of entrusting our pets to a supposed PRO and having her lie about what happened and being negligent compels me to seek legal action.
Our vacation was London and then a cruise around the British Isles…I had not bought cancellation insurance so I’ve been out of the country, dealing with doctors and racking up medical bills for Dolly’s care. The heartbreak we feel is overwhelming. Kenzie was a 4 year old beautiful white bichon poodle. Dolly is 12 and has been hanging on to life since this happened.
The trainer and her husband, are dog handlers AND he has a company that recruits trainers. I’ve done internet searches for for info on them and they supposedly specialize in aggressive dogs. They have videos online. They have used a number of different business names. A 3rd party company built her website claiming she is the #1 Dog Trainer in the East Bay…awards, certifications,etc. I contacted the 3rd party company about her site and they took it down. I saved the content of the website. Probably afraid of liability on their part.
Her husband, and I spoke yesterday and he basically said that there are no laws for dog trainers or boarding. He owns a facility in San Diego and a company that recruits people to become trainers. It’s all about SALES to these people.
I am seeking punitive damages as well as medical bills. I don’t want ANY pet owner to ever go through this again…entrusting your animals to a so called professional and then their negligence kills and maims our pets.
This has been horrific for our family. Being out of the country, hearing of the violence of how Kenzie died…my dogs are small Bichon Poodles. The grief, medical bills and lack of responsibility from the Train has compounded our anger and sadness.
Lisa says
My dog got in to a neighbors yard to chase bunnies the bunnies were not harmed and nothing was damaged they do not have a fence up but they shot and killed my dog beacause it was there property I can’t press charges but can I go to court and try to sue them please help ???
Carrie Warren says
Oh Lisa, I’m so sorry. I’m not sure what the laws are in your area, but I’d definitely recommend contacting an attorney. Here’s a good place to start: https://www.enjuris.com/directory/
William Derek Graham says
My daughter, during a temper tantrum, (of which she has many), threw the TV Remote which struck my dog on the head, causing it to have a number of seizures.
Despite treatment at the Vet’s, Jack failed to respond, which meant we had to have him ‘put to sleep’..
Can I have my daughter prosecuted for this act of violence, since this is not the first time she has shown violent behaviour in this way.
Nancy Rapp says
I’m sorry to hear about your loss, William. Pets are certainly a member of the family. Depending on the age of your daughter and if her act was deliberate, then it is possible to file a criminal and/or civil action against her, provided that not too much time has passed. Report the incident to your local law enforcement to see what they say, and use our attorney directory to find a personal injury attorney near you to see if you have a civil case.
ImissMyDog says
I went on vacation and left my dog with a two family friends that live together. Friend 01 put my dog securely in room while he went to work. Friend 02 heard the dog yelping and let my dog out in her backyard and left my dog unsupervised, which lead to it running away. Her house did not have a fenced yard and she did not make a reasonable attempt to search for the dog, and even left the area to handle other matters, leaving the majority of the search to be held by Friend 01.
The very same night local police found my dog dead on the street nearby her home when it got hit by a car not long after she let him loose. In a phone conversation with her I recorded for my records, I have her admitting to her guilt when I asked her to describe what happened. However, I’ve tried to contact her days later to settle this out of court, but she is ignoring me. She had no human decency to apologize for her stupid actions that lead to the death of my dog nor even pay for the funeral expenses at the very least when she even previously offered.
Since there was no contract, nor was this a business matter (I placed my trust in these friends with the well-being and care of my dog), I do not know if I have enough grounds to go to small claims court or file a civil action suit. I have only text messages and an audio recording as proof. This whole ordeal is painful and I don’t want it to be drawn out too long. I simply want to reach a settlement of paying for the replacement of the dog and the funeral expenses I incurred. What would be your recommendation for a course of action?
Nancy Rapp says
Hello there. I’m so sorry for your loss. It would seem as though you have a legitimate negligence claim. I encourage you to use our attorney directory and find a personal injury attorney near you. Funeral expenses aren’t typically covered for pets, unless you are referring to the medical costs. You can, however, seek compensation for the loss of your pet.
Lisa says
My friend was at work and when he got home the landlord said that his dog bite someone and this person killed him. They buried the dog before he got home. They never tried to call him to let him know what was going on. Can he do anything about this?
Nancy Rapp says
HI Lisa. That’s certainly a terrible situation. There is certainly the possibility of a lawsuit, because someone can’t typically kill a dog unless it was in self-defense. I encourage your friend to find a personal injury attorney with our directory and schedule a consultation.
Linda says
A neighbor’s dog came through a shared fence and was found injured in my backyard. No one saw what happened, but our Corgie was in the yard and it is assumed he injured it trying to ‘protect’ his property. The dog was immediately returned to the neighbor who took it to the vet and later reported it had to be put down. I feel just awful this happened, but I am wondering what my legal liability is. Can they sue? We need to replace the fence as it did not keep the little dog from coming through and I am willing to pay to have this done even though the fence is shared, but what should I do about the death of their pet?
Nancy Rapp says
Hello Linda. In this scenario, there is typically no liability as it’s impossible to say if your Corgi or another animal harmed the dog. You can offer to help in whatever way you feel comfortable, but we encourage you not to take the blame. If the neighbor does pursue legal action, we encourage you to speak with a personal injury attorney.
Jana says
Our neighbors dog which is 2houses down dug a hole to the neighbors then dug a hole between our fence and next door neighbors got in our back yard and vicious killed our Maltipoo my daughter who is 9 saw the dog standing over our dog we called dog pound they came and got the dog but in 3dayd the dog was back at home how can they release a dog that has killed our dog what can we do very upset of losing our dog and dog pound releasing the killer dog thank jana
Nancy Rapp says
Hi Jana. I’m sorry for the loss of your dog. It’s possible that you can pursue a personal injury claim for your loss. We encourage you to browse our attorney directory and schedule a consultation with a lawyer near you.
Jane Conway says
As I was walking my dog (Fox Terrier) on its leash in our neighborhood, a Pit Bull dog that was running in street lose from its yard charged after my dog & viciously attacked him for several minutes. I tried to protect my small dog but it kept coming after my dog & I could not get away. In the scuffle trying to get the Pit Bull off my dog, I hit my head on concrete street & had to go to hospital for staples in head & CT scan. My dog also had to go to Vet hospital for injuries. Dog has a history from neighbors of getting lose & also chasing kids on bikes.
What is the process to recover my medical cost for injuries & testing along with medical costs for my dog?
Nancy Rapp says
Hello Jane. I’m sorry to hear about your accident. Rather than handle this yourself, you should use our attorney directory to find an attorney near you. They will help you understand the potential liability and explain to you what damages you may be able to recover.
James W Sutton says
My dog of 4 years was hit by a car lastnight. Well trained by me he was a Chihuahua smart dog and never ran out in the road till lastnight. It was dark but I could see the person on the phone cause it was lit up. I ran out to the road and he had passed away. The person that hit him kept going. Then I see them turn around and ride back by but never stopped. Not only was the person on the phone but also speeding. We live on a farm with cows and I have the persons tag number. I don’t see how anyone could not stop. Expecially after hitting something. Is there anything I can do? I’m in Latta, South Carolina
Lynne Hines says
My shitzhu was jumped as I was walking him past a neighbors home. Their pit bull was not on a leash. My dog was bit on the neck and needed surgery but died 2 days later. I am heart broken. He was a member of my family. The owner did end up paying the vet bill. Can I sue them for pain and suffering?
Lance Buchanan says
Thanks for sharing your story James. We’re so sorry to hear that your dog didn’t make it. That’s good that you were able to get the person’s tag number – it might be able to serve as evidence to find the hit and run driver. We recommend letting the local authorities know and then contacting an attorney. Here’s our list of personal injury attorneys in South Carolina. Best wishes.
Chekesha Miller-Clifford says
They didn’t have to die…..
MY 3 MUSKETEERS
My name is Chekesha Miller-Clifford and I am 40 years old. My situation requires an attorney, but I have no clue what type.
For a year and a half I rented a room in a house merely because I got the back bedroom where there was a door I could leave open if I chose due to my 2 pit puppies needing to go out regularly.
As my boys got older I could choose whether or not I would leave my door open or not. I had a significant other that was released from incarceration before they turned a year old and he surprisingly got me pregnant and abandoned me in my condition.
Regardless, my boys and I turned into more when one of my roommates brought home a dog. He left the dog in his room alone and being a puppy he tore up things and had many accidents so I volunteered to let him stay out back with my boys while this gentleman went to work.
It wasn’t long before he asked if I would find his dog a home because he was going to be traveling so since JC got along with my 2 (Colossus and Goliath) I decided to keep him.
Not being due until October it was an absolute shock when my water broke in mid August. Being that I was home alone I called for an ambulance and went to the hospital.
My daughter was breech so they knew a cessarian was necessary but chose to leave her in my womb as long as possible to better her chances of being a healthy baby. Almost a week later I was cut open to deliver my beauty queen and died on the table during the procedure. Four days afterward I was discharged and had to find a way to build a fence at my new place for my boys.
During this time that I should have been resting I gathered up my supplies to get this fence built so that I could get my boys home to me. It didn’t go as planned, come to find out my former landlord put my dogs on the animal services truck.
He didn’t even have the stones to pick up a phone and call me to let me know. I called animal services and once I could get to them to identify them as mine, my case was referred to an investigator since they were picked up during my hopitalization. I was informed that I would merely be fined their medical fees and I would be recontacted with an amount to get them out.
That information never came to me, I placed calls to animal services every other day leaving messages and my information, no call back. On the 26th of November I received a message that was cryptic telling me to call the office. So I did, and found out that a certified letter was sent out that I never received, but my boys were classified as unclaimed and no one would tell me definitively whether or not my boys were still alive. Finally I asked if I look on the website and they were missing from there should I assume them deceased and was told yes.
So of course I can’t find them so to be on the safe side I sent a message to animal services for a definitive yes or no and still they have not replied and I am furious!!! My boys ran around trying to find me and the landlord put them on “death row” because feeding them cut into his dope money!!!
Why they were classified as unclaimed I do not know because as often as they got messages from me they knew I wanted to get my boys before they were killed yet I don’t hear from them until AFTER their stay “expired’ what is the reasoning behind this and why were they not released to a pit sanctuary instead of being euthanized? They had no transgressions against them and they were not violent.
THERE IS NO AMOUNT OF MONEY THAT WOULD JUSTIFY THEIR DEATHS BUT THEY NEED TO BE ACCOUTABLE FOR THEIR NEGLIGENCE!!!
On top is Colossus, JC is on the left and Goliath is on the right.
Lance Buchanan says
We appreciate you sharing your story, Lynne, and we’re so sorry to hear about your loss. Dogs are part of the family and it’s difficult when we lose them. As for your question about pain and suffering, dog bite incidents typically fall under premises liability law and your legal rights can vary from state to state. We recommend looking for a premises liability lawyer near you to find out your options. Feel free to use our attorney directory: https://www.enjuris.com/directory/. All the best.
Lance Buchanan says
We’re sorry to hear about your loss, Chekesha. You’re right, no amount of money can make up for the loss of a beloved companion. Though they are like family to us, the legal system often puts dogs and other pets in the “personal property” category. So you would likely need to talk with an attorney who specializes in property damage and personal injury. A criminal lawsuit can be filed by itself or in addition to a civil lawsuit if it can be proven that the act was blatantly malicious and purposeful. However, all states (and even counties within states) have different rules and procedures for how to handle lawsuits for animal companion injuries and death. We encourage you to talk to an attorney in your area to learn about your legal rights. Feel free to use our free attorney directory to find one. We wish you the best.
Sarah Burgart says
I live in Seattle, WA, I picked up my service dog from boarding, got home, discovered he was injured – that was 10/13 – today is 12/12 – he is still limping and will not be able to get back to his work or training for at least another 4-6 weeks, if at all. what do you recommend I pursue with the Dog Resort (boarding)
Lance Buchanan says
Thanks for sharing your story, Sarah. We’re sorry to hear about your service dog. If you can prove that he was injured at the boarding place, then you may be able to recover damages for any vet bills and suffering caused to you personally. The only way to really know your legal options is to speak with an attorney near you as each state law is different. Many lawyers offer free initial consultations, so it shouldn’t cost you anything but your time to learn about your options. Here’s a link to our list of Washington personal injury lawyers: https://www.enjuris.com/directory/washington/
Mary Dawn Kessinger says
Hi my name is Mary kessinger and my baby girl was left with my best friend to watch her over the Christmas holidays. I received text messages from my best friend and her husband asking me if I had picked my dog up yet and that I needed to call her immediately them or someone that was at the house let their dogs and my dog outside and did not keep an eye on my baby girl after I had specifically told them to please keep an eye on her and not to let her outside by herself to stay out there with her until she was done and bring her back in and this was not done that neglected to do this and my dog was supposedly hit by a car and did not make it
Reanna Morton says
Hello, I share a fence with my neighbors and it’s a older fence that needs to be replaced soon. We bought our house roughly 26 months ago and put up 2 fences in the front yard and waited for the house behind us to sell because it was on the market. It sold last year but they made a lot of modifications so I held off talking to them about building another fence. I did repairs to fence and never had issues with the fence until last night. Our 1 year old Australian Shepherd apparently broke into their yard so they deemed him vicious and they just let him go out of their front gate. To top it off, they never tried telling us last night. I ended up going to their house late at night after thinking my dog may have climbed over the fence into their yard because there was no real visable damage to the fence except a small broken 2 foot by 2 inches sliver missing from a board.. That’s when I learned my dog barked at them daily but they never said anything to us ever in the whole year they lived there. Our dog has never bit anyone and they could’ve just left him alone and probably would’ve went back in our yard last night.
I tried talking to them today to see where my dog broke the fence, like I said there was no area I could see except a two foot by 2 inch broken piece, but when I spoke to the lady she made direct eye contact
with me, slammed her glass back door shut and closed the curtains. That’s when I called the sheriff department, our dog was a 1400 dollar
AKC registered pet, I was convinced they stoled him because my 4 other dogs were fine Barely 4 hours ago, I found his body after I spent many hours looking for him all night, going to the pound, posting lost dog ads every where. We are heartbroken and devastated that neighbors would do something like this to our puppy. Is this neglect on their part for failing to even notify my family? Our dog was part of our family. Thank you for taking time to read this.
charissa saverio says
Hi, I invited a friend over to my house at 8 pm to discuss agents/business I noticed he was quite drunk and I felt very uncomfortable. As he stood up I said ‘Don’t step on my dog’ which was on the other side of the couch. He stepped on him and my dog has a dislocated hip and so far tonight it’s cost me $600 he is staying overnight at the vet and tomorrow the vet will hopefully manually pop the hip back in and he will be in a sling for 5 weeks, so more costs. The issue is, if that does not work, its surgery which can be 5k and my dog is 15 years old.
Tim, the guy who did this is a friend not close but should he be obligated to help with vet bills? I may have to put my dog down as I can’t afford surgery and he’s too old for it anyway, he may not survive. I am devastated.Help, can i take him to small claims? Do I have a case if my dog has to die? I can’t even imagine this happening.
Lance Buchanan says
Thanks for sharing your story, Mary, and our sincerest sympathies for the loss of your dog.
Lance Buchanan says
Thanks for sharing your story, Reanna, and we’re sorry for your loss. Our thoughts are with you and your family. From the details you provided, liability may be difficult to establish since it occurred on their property. While it’s certainly a bad neighborly way to act, that doesn’t necessarily mean they had a legal obligation to inform you unfortunately. To find out for sure, consider speaking with a personal injury attorney about your rights as they can vary by state. We wish you and your family the best.
Lance Buchanan says
Thanks for sharing, Charissa. First, see if the friend would be willing to chip in for vet bills on his own (without pursuing legal action). This would be the fastest and cheapest route. If he refuses to pay, then it’s time to consult a personal injury attorney. Vet bills can add up quickly, and you may be able sue him for compensation. It will depend on the laws in your state though, which is why it’s important to talk to an expert. Feel free to use our online directory to find a law firm near you: https://www.enjuris.com/directory/. Good luck and we hope your dog is able to pull though and heal quickly!
Cherry mitchem says
I need help my dog was murdered by a psychopath for no reason. He admitted to police he strangled him and kicked him. And tortured him for a while. I had my dog (name Tuesday) for like 12 years. He was my baby. The guy had previously records of animal killings in Florida I live in Tennessee. They took him to a mental hospital and hopefully jail. Can I get more done? I had him cremated today. I haven’t been able to sleep. I’m really torn up anlout this. He killed my dog in my home.
Ian Pisarcik says
Cherry,
I’m sorry this happened to you. This is truly a heartbreaking story. I would recommend speaking with an attorney in your area. In a lot of states, you can recover money damages for “emotional distress.” For example, in this case, you might be able to recover money from the person who murdered your dog because of the emotional distress that the murder has put you through.
Debbie Q says
My beloved dog was killed by another dog in December. The other much larger dog, jumped the fence and killed my little dog instantly. The owners had left their dog unattended outside while they left on vacation. The fence was only 4 feet tall and their dog was a German shepherd mix. Their dog already has open cases with the animal control for similar incidents. My dog was part of my family. He was an inside dog and slept with me. His death was very traumatic for me. One minute I saw him and the next he was dead. The worst part is that it could have been avoided. The owners knew their dog was violen. They even had a large running pen that they could have kept it in but they chose to leave their dog outside. What rights do I have to sue ? They had surrendered their dog and now they changed their mind.
Dulce Estrada says
Hello, My female German Shepherd (Jenny) was attacked by our next door Neighbor Pit bull. The pit bull jump over to our backyard back in Nov and we caught them fighting within the 5-10 mins he jumped over. This pass weekend we were not home and when came back home we found her and the pit bull jaw locked to each other in our backyard, my dad hosed them down with water and the neighbor got his dog. My German wouldn’t get get up and was just laying there bleeding non stop, We took her to the hospital and said she was paralyzed from her neck and two front paws and she would need surgery and treatment. Doctor recommend putting her down. The owner of the pit-bull said he will pay for half but shouldn’t he pay for the whole thing?
Ian Pisarcik says
Debbie,
I am so sorry that this happened to you. It sounds like the owners knew their dog was dangerous, but failed to take steps to keep the dog from injuring other dogs. With that in mind, it sounds like you have a legitimate negligence lawsuit. I would recommend talking to an attorney in your area as soon as possible.
Ian Pisarcik says
Dulce,
I’m sorry this happened to you. It sounds like your neighbor knew his dog was dangerous and was capable of jumping the fence, but nevertheless failed to take steps to prevent this from happening (such as tying the dog to a chain). You may have a negligence claim against the owner of the pit bull, which means you could recover economic damages (the cost of putting your dog down), as well as non-economic damages (for your pain and suffering). I would recommend meeting with a personal injury attorney in your area to discuss your options.
Denice Swindle says
My little fur baby that I’ve since he was 6 week’s old was run over by the mail lady, it broke his back and I had to have him put down because I couldn’t afford the 2,5000.00-3,000.00$ surgery which was not gaurnteed he would probably be paralyzed. Bubbie was 4 years old and it’s killing me inside he was my baby boy. His dad got killed by another dog right in front of me and I thought I was going to die when he got murdered by the other dog. The mail lady did go get my mom and when they got back to where she ran him over he was gone he made it back to the house in a lot of pain, he had a big hole in his cheek and a few other chunks missing on his face, I was at work when this happened. I hurried up and got home and took him to the vet and they did X-ray’s and said his spine was broke and he was in a lot of pain, I didn’t want my little boy to be hurting so I had to make the decision to put him down, which is going to be in my heart forever what I had to do. He was a good boy and didn’t deserve to ran over. I will have a empty place in my heart for my lose. What can I do
Ian Pisarcik says
Denice,
I’m sorry this happened to you. You may be able to sue the mail carrier for negligence if her carelessness caused the accident. In a negligence lawsuit, you would be able to recover the veterinary expenses and damages for your emotional distress (in most states). It may be very difficult to prove that the mail lady was careless however. Nevertheless, you might consider talking with an attorney. Keep in mind that the mail carrier is a public employee and there are certain strict deadlines that must be met when suing a public employee. So, if you intend to talk to an attorney, you should do so immediately.
Carrie L. says
Hopefully I can get a little advice here.
I recently took on 2 foster dogs both 50+ lbs. My neighbors schnauzer constantly charges our shared fence when anyone is in my backyard and barks incessantly but, being a small size, has only caused minor fence damage. I let my foster dogs out into my backyard one day and stood out there to make sure the neighbors dog was not outside. I then left my house for 1 hour and when I returned, the foster dogs had broken through the fence and killed their dog. I immediately called the organization that I foster through and requested the dogs be removed from my home. These foster dogs have never shown aggression as we have taken them to dog parks and they were sheltered with other dogs. They have been around children and kittens. I am heartbroken for my neighbors. They haven’t responded to my inquiry. I wanted to fix the fence but they got to it before I could. I’d like to help but I am afraid of the legal repercussions. I live in Texas where laws in these matters are vague or non-existent.
Poppy says
Beau is my service support dog I am disabled. He is my only family and son best friend guide and protecter. He is only five and robust and healthy never ill. He was poisoned by ice melt the contractors put down after last snow. They do not use pet friendly ice melt. I tried desperately to get the ingredients in the product they used by calling texting and emailing as treatment differs and received no response. I lost my beloved. I am not doing well.
I am in Kansas in Lawrence. Please help. I need to take legal action.
Ian Pisarcik says
Poppy,
I’m so sorry this happened to you. I would consider contacting an attorney in Kansas. You can locate an attorney through our free online directory or through the Kansas State Bar.
Be sure to tell the lawyer that the contractor didn’t respond to your requests, as that may help you make out a negligence claim.
Poppy says
Thank you.
………………………………………
L. Peredo says
I and my dog were hiking with a neighbor and her 2 dogs. Out of the blue one of her dogs bit my dog on the neck. My dog was simply standing still next to me as the dog ran full speed towards us. . The owner did nothing to stop him. I removed her dog from my dog. It did not seem That my dog was injured at the time, But an hour later I rushed her to the ER because she was having issues breathing and was lethargic. She was diagnosed with a traumatic injury to her larynx. It’s not cureable and she may need surgery to help her survive with this injury. This will severely impact her life.
My neighbor claims she did not see the dog bite her so it never happened. Our family is trying to handle this to retain neighborly relations and requested they contain their dogs and not let them continue to roam. They assured us they would take precautions but have not. I may add, their dogs have a history of aggression and have bitten and charged neighbors. 5 times in the last year. They have continued to allow them to roam.
Our dogs had e collars on at the time of this incident.
We are in early stages of determining prognosis for our dog by obtaining a second option next month.
At this point we feel they should pay all or a portion of the medical bills as well as be required to contain, train and muzzle their dogs. We plan to discuss this with them once we get the prognosis but we expect them to refuse. What is our next step? Do we have legal recourse?our state is one bite. South Dakota.
Chasidy says
My neighbor ran over my dog killing her. He admitted that he seen the 1st dog, then the second, but he didn’t stop, This same neighbor back in Dec had a DWI for smashing into my car that was parked in our driveway. Is there anything that I can do? I know he’s driving without a license because of the DWI and I know but cant prove that he killed my fur baby on purpose. Please advise!!! I live in Arkansas
James Heathman says
I took my 2 year old terrier mix to the vet this morning at 10am for his regular checkup. Doctor said he was fine and in very good shape. Attitude was happy and playful.
I left the vet’s office and took him to Petco for his regular spa day. The groomer who was going to perform the duties was pleasant enough. She checked him in and said that she would put him for an 1100am appt. It was about 1045am.
I received a call from the lady that checked him in, about 430pm,saying my dog was ready. The lady went on to say that there had been a problem. She said my dog bit the groomer. I said no way!! My dog doesn’t have that temperment. He has never bitten anyone. Everyone loves him. I asked how the groomer was and she said fine.
When I finally pick up my dog he acted like he needed to get out of there. He jumped up to me and licked my face frantically. While walking him back to the car, he displayed a limp. When we got home, I went to pick him up under his front legs and he cried horribly. I then laid him down on the ottoman between my legs and was rubbing his tummy when I noticed red blotches on his skin between his legs and the 8nner part of his legs and lower abdomen. He cried again when I tried to move him to get a better look.
The limping happened only one time before at the same store when he was groomed by the same groomer. It was the first time I took him to Petco. Every other time it was a different groomer and the never complained about the actions of my dog.
I made an appt to take my dog back to the vet to have h8m examined in the morning.
What can a person do in acase like this?
Thank you for your time and any assistance.
Ian Pisarcik says
Chasidy,
I’m sorry this happened to you.
It’s not necessary that you prove that the driver ran over your dog on purpose to recover damages. It is sufficient that the driver was negligent. Also, in most states it is illegal to hit a dog and not stop. We suggest you contact an attorney in your area to discuss your case.
Ian Pisarcik says
James,
I’m sorry this happened. You can certainly sue an individual who has intentionally or negligently harmed your dog. The challenge in this case will be compiling the evidence necessary to support your claim. I would start by taking pictures of the injuries and making copies of the vet records. Then, I would meet with an attorney. An attorney can help you gather additional evidence. For example, the attorney can subpoena any video cameras that may have been in the groomers. The attorney can also interview staff and witnesses.
Elizabeth Cordova says
My great pyrenees Diego was poisoned and he died. I have some suspects. It was rat poison. He weighed 150 pounds healthy playful gentle giant. Feb. 4 , 2019. I am devastated i want our local animal cruelty investigative unit to listen and I want to file a report but they always ask for evidence. You would think if I had evidence these monsters would be in jail by now. I am playing detective and if this is the last thing I do I will find these killers. What di you suggest I do. Any suggestions. Thank you
Ian Pisarcik says
Elizabeth,
I’m so sorry this happened to you. I know you’re upset, but be careful with how you react. I wouldn’t want to see you get yourself into trouble by going after these suspects. Have you contacted the police? If you have suspects, I would talk to the police. You might also consider talking to an attorney. If the attorney believes there is enough evidence to point to a particular person, they can file a lawsuit and use the discovery process to obtain more evidence.
Sarah says
I have 5 dogs, 2 got shot this past sunday in identical spots on their heads (it looked as if they were shot by somebody standing on top of them, possibly holding them trapped). The shots looked as if they were trying to kill them point blank, because of where they were shot. Know these are the sweetest dogs and would never hurt a fly, koda got shot on top of the head and the exit wound was right under his right eye (he had to get his eye removed because it ripped his muscles holding his eye and had damage to the retina) Cooper got shot in the same exact spot a little further back but missed his eye (thank god) but he is now paraplegic the person tried to shoot him again but missed. Before they got shot: My mom took them for a joy ride and let them out for maybe 5 minutes we live on 10 acres so it would’ve been hard to get to the back of the property in that time, our neighbor to our right always texts us when our dogs are on their property and we asked in person if they heard anything or saw anything they denied, but our neighbors on left however were acting suspicious. he claims he didn’t do it but time wise it’s impossible for him to have not. we believe they were on our property when it happened. we think he held them through the fence and shot our two beloved dogs in the same spot execution style, he also has a history of killing dogs he’s killed one of his own. What should we do if we want to do a civil case? Can we sue?
Hugh Williams says
My 2 year old Siberian Husky was shot and killed by a fairly new neighbor in our community . He did call authorities after he killed my dog I guess he saw his tags and felt he may have made a mistake so the story according to the sheriffs dept. started out saying my dog was killing his chickens after I kept insisting on some evidence of the dead chickens the story changed to he was attacking his chickens after I went to see the magistrate and told him the story he advised me to ask the sheriff to go out and do a better investigation so the sheriff called me almost 2 week later said he sent investigator out to his house and said the mans wife said she had some pictures she would email to him and he would forward them to me well it’s been a month ago today and no pictures. at the age of 57 Sammy was his name was the love of my life and my grandsons who still ask for him every time I see him and keeps looking for him and calling out for him ! Sammy rode with me everywhere I went slept with me every night . I have to continue to see this man the sheriffs dept told me he said he shot him with a shotgun well before I buried him I had to know how he was killed and it was not with a shotgun I’ve been hunting all my life he was shot with a small caliber gun right in the middle of his side ! Ther was not one drop of blood on his teeth or his beautiful white face. I was raised on a farm and my dad had many dogs chickens hogs etc. I’ve seen my grandmother ring chickens necks to prepare them for cleaning and eating and believe me they have plenty of blood in them . My point is there was no sign of blood anywhere. He played with my other neighbors dogs and cats no problem at all and when I researched huskies before I bought him the article said they are there own worst enemy because they have never met a stranger. They are most protective of children and there food. I haven’t been able to sleep work anything without thinking about him and his unconditional love to everyone and everything ? Thank you for any advice !
Jessica Williams says
Î was living with a guy that i found out was abusing his dog, he never let her inside the house and even boarded her/locked her up once under the house, luckily i heard her crying. He said it was an accident. Hes talked about shooting her. Needless to say me and her have become inseperable, and i left him and she came with me. Well stupid me went back to him, and i regret it. He started hitting her while i was at work and acting like tbey wdre best friends winning her over with treats when i was home, until one day he snapped and swung hard at her while she was in my lap, he ended up hitting me instead. So i started saving money to move, im newish in texas,. I didn’t have anywhere i could stay. So after my tax rerurns came back i started applying for apartments. I went to work on subday and he stayed home all day with her, i had a bad feeling all day that something was wrong. I came home and she was excited to see me, but not herself at the same time
It was a small difference in her, that kept getting worse. She couldny sit still. Or stop moving her head. Then it went to her spinning in circles non stop. I took her to the 24 hour E. R. vet to find out she had toxins in her system. I believe he fed her either meth or mixed her food with roast beef from my work, and roach/ant killer i found in the closet. He kept saying she was outside for an hour that morning amd wouldnt come in. And maybe got stuck by a needle near the trash. First off she wouldny stay outside like that because she hates it outside now. Amd he said do you thibk she would come to hi. If he did something. Well yes. If you bribe her with tteats. And build her trust. Then of course you could easily poison her!! Thats why i don’t usually let people feed my dog! Plus i worked 12-1045pm. Why did she go from kind of bad to horrie condition within 3 hours of me being home. But not in the 12 i was gone.? That he didnt notice anything different? He kept telling me sge was fine and i was imagining it! Now the money i had saved for a way out of here os gone. But thank god she didn’t die and i had the money to Pay the bill!! Shes so strong. We both are very lucky girls right now. But him…. What can indo? If anything? Because there’s no actual PROOF. Just the fact that i know him and i know he did it! I feel like im the guilty one for being there and having her there with me. I just dont trust ANYONE with my baby girl. Amd she doesnt trust ANYONE but me,.. Litetally. Do i have any options at all? Whether its pressing charges, or suing for the vet bills? Which were arund $900. 00
Jessica w.
Jessica Williams says
Sorry about all the typos… I hope someone can desipher them. And get the gist of what i was saying..
Jess w
Ian Pisarcik says
Jessica,
I’m sorry this happened to you. You’re correct that you’ll need to prove that this guy was negligent or acted intentionally to harm your dog. That might be difficult. But, not impossible. The larger issue is that a lawsuit is expensive and the damages you might recover in this lawsuit are probably pretty low. For that reason, it might not make sense to pay a lawyer. However, there are lots of free legal resources out there. Use the Texas State Bar referral page to find a free or low-cost attorney.
Ian Pisarcik says
Hugh,
I’m sorry this happened to you. Sometimes, cases where dog’s are hurt aren’t the priority of the local police. Often, a lawyer can do a quicker and more thorough investigation. I would recommend contacting a lawyer in your area and explaining the situation.
Ian Pisarcik says
Sarah,
You can certainly sue. The most challenging part will be finding the necessary evidence. However, an attorney can help with this. Even if there’s no physical evidence, an attorney can often get beneficial testimony by deposing the suspect and others. Feel free to use our free online directory to locate an attorney.
Ian Pisarcik says
Carrie,
In Texas, in order to recover damages for a dog bite (even one that leads to death), the injured person must show that the dog’s owner (you) knew the dog had bitten someone before or had acted aggressively in the past. Therefore, you likely don’t have any liability in this case.
Ian Pisarcik says
L. Peredo,
You can certainly sue. However, it might be difficult to come up with the evidence necessary to establish that the dog bit your dog. You should contact an attorney. Most initial consultations are free, and the attorney will be able to help you determine whether you have a good case.
Alexandria cupp says
I’m in Michigan where my 11 year old german Sheppard (Tucker) was killed in front of my house on my dirt road April 1st 2019 at approximately 1045pm with my husband outside he was shot not once but twice with a bird shot shotgun. He admitted what he had done but did not go to jail even though he is on probation and was drinking as well. He admitted to having a rifle and going back in the house to get his shot gun. This was malicious and premeditated Nothing has been done no charges have been filed nor are they planning on it. The news has been involved. I have the police report and nercropsy report proving this! Please help me the harassment is still continuing with my neighbors. They feel as if they have the upper hand because they killed my beloved Tucker I’m scared for my two children and myself. I have filed for restraining orders. He was not bitten or attacked! My dog is not deemed vicious either. Please help
CARMEN COMBS says
my 14 yr old frenchie was picked up as a stray i was told, altho all my dog did was sleep go out her dog door and potty . my house sits in front of a sidewalk with passerby people who think the grass in my front yard is common ground, so i know he lying my dog didnt wonder off she sleeps .i called everywhere but no answer all were closed .myself and others posted on humane society ect sites with pictures asking if they seen my dog, no replies. the busy body first took my dog to a vet vet took a picture and told him hed have better luck owners finding there dog at humane society ,he took my dog there and they put her to sleep bc they said it looked like she wasnt happy living. my dog had a huge tattoo of her registaration number on her belly, she loved to play games, go for rides,, her treats , but mostly my love .they didnt even keep my dog alive for 5 hours . I wouldve been there befor the door opened , it makes me sick to think she dies alone and scared. in florida humane society.
cj combs says
i have been trying to find help for” Ruby”s justice , i dont see why anyone can put your dog to sleep bc they said she was a stray, their treating the busy body like he is a concerned passerby who picked up my wondering dog, but she is considered a stray and sentenced to death, thanks for any advice you may have ive been a hot mess , i miss my girl and let her down . she depended on me to watch out for her like she did with me .
unconditional love
A Adkins says
I had 2 Pitt dogs, my male was 3 and female was just 1, they were both shot the same day by the same person within 10 feet of each other beside my house. There isn’t a leash law where I live and I have had no one mention to me anything about my dogs doing anything in the community.
Now my male was born not breathing my girlfriend at the time worked with him to save him. We also bottle fed him. Needless to say you build an attachment. My female needles to say never left my side until that day.
Now the girlfriend has passed away. He was my close feeling to her. The female in heat. Also I was outside screaming for them when he shot them. Yes I heard the shots. All right at the 2 year anniversary of her death.
Any advice…
Davena Davis says
On Saturday, April 20th my dog was killed by my neighbor’s Siberian Husky. My children and I had just returned from the park. I had just parked right in front of my home. I got out of the car, my dog following at my ankles. I proceeded to let my oldest daughter out of the car on the drivers side. Again, my dog was at ankles as I came around to the passengers side to let my daughter out of the car seat. As I set my daughter down onto the sidewalk to grab my dog, the husky appeared out of no where and attacked my dog. He immediately went straight for the neck and began shaking my dog violently, as if he intended to kill. I had no choice but to leave my dog, bang on my front door so someone could get my kids. My father then came out, pushed my kids inside and we both attempted to throw rocks at the dog but he was still hovering, as my dog was attempting to get up. The owner of the dog ran over to try to secure the dog but was unable to, After trying to grab the dog, the owner ran back in his home and allowed the dog to roam down the block about 4 houses down. my neighbors heard me yelling and some ran to this mans house to try to get him to come out. I was on the phone with 911 the entire time. I am looking to sue the dog owner as this has caused tremendous stress on myself and my children. My mother advised me that this dog has tried to attack my dog before, although she did not know what to do other than grab my dog and run home. She did not call animal control the first time.
Joy Butler says
On Easter this year (04/21/19) a guy was speeding down my residential street in Houston, TX and hit my dog that was crossing the street to come back to me while I was standing in the yard, waiting on him. He shattered his hip and smashed open his head when he hit him. My dog died within second but the driver keep going. I have sense found out who was driving the car. Do I have any legal action? It has been very, very hard since this happen. I cnt sleep at night and am sad all day without my Bullet. Bullet was my baby’s name. My grandaon just cant stop crying. Help me please!
Ian Pisarcik says
Joy,
I’m sorry this happened to you. Yes, you likely have a legal cause of action for damages against the person who hit your dog and did not stop. The challenge will be proving that this person in fact hit your dog. I recommend talking with an attorney in your area. The attorney can discuss what damages might be available and can further discuss what evidence might exist to support your claim.
Ian Pisarcik says
Carmen,
I’m sorry this happened. Every county has different rules about what officials are required to do before putting a dog to sleep. I would recommend contacting an attorney in your area. The attorney can determine whether the rules were followed and – if not – can discuss a potential lawsuit against the county.
Jenna says
Hi, my dog is an escape artist so we tend to leave him in our front yard without a fence. He usually stays at the house, but will run and go fight the neighbors dogs. They’ve shot him with a BB gun before and today they threatened to shoot him again, with a pistol or BB gun I don’t know… We are going to try and keep him in our back yard but as I stated he’s an escape artist… What can I do?
Jenna says
They have also ran over one of our pups before. They pull into their house very fast… they didn’t tell me or my family until we went over and asked if they had seen him
Tina says
My cat was shot this morning by the elderly man next door. He walks up and down his driveway with a 22 shooting at them across the fence, I confronted him once before because he hit ME with a bullet right outside my front door while I was putting cat food out. He claimed he wasn’t shooting AT the cats just trying to scare them out of his yard (there are several strays around here too that wander across his yard). I heard three gun shots this morning then my cat came back inside (she had only went out to use the outdoor litter area) with blood pouring out of her behind and a huge hole on her back. I took her to the vet and they took an xray and confirmed she had a 22 bullet in her back end. She is still at the vet and I am in a panic. I called a sheriff and she made my report and went next door to confront the man but he wouldn’t come to the door. The people I live next to has also had issues with him poisoning and hurting their animals. Of course, I have no video proof, but I will have a 22 bullet that will match up to his gun. I am looking at filing a civil suit to reclaim vet costs and hopefully someone will take his gun away. He is an elderly man that went off the rails after losing his wife last year and my cats are on the end of the gun he carries around even when he goes to check the mail and shoots at my cats IN MY YARD. Suggestions? How to I file a suit? Go to courthouse and ask for what form? I do not have the money to pay this vet bill and will have to borrow, so I need to be able to pay it back and make sure this man doesn’t hurt any other animals. Thank you!
Luis says
My dog es killed by someone else’s dog 2. months ago the owner and I came an agreement that she would reimburse me for the list of my dog but now she refusing to pay me can o still sit her even after 3 months or is there a time lining to place the lawsuit?
Ian Pisarcik says
Luis,
There’s a statute of limitations (a deadline to file a lawsuit). The statute of limitations varies depending on the state. However, most states statute of limitations is 2-3 years. Accordingly, you still have plenty of time to file a lawsuit.
Ian Pisarcik says
Tina,
I’m sorry this happened to you. If you don’t think you can afford an attorney, I would recommend contacting your local State Bar Association. The bar association will have a “referral number” and if you call that number, the state bar will help you locate a free or low-cost attorney.
If you decide to file the lawsuit yourself, this article should help get you started.
Ian Pisarcik says
Jenna,
The best thing for you to do is find a concrete way to keep your dogs in your yard. With that being said, your neighbor doesn’t have the right to shoot your dog (unless he is being threatened). Therefore, you may be able to file a lawsuit if your dogs are injured. But again, it’s best to avoid this situation by finding a way to keep your dogs on your property.
Ian Pisarcik says
Adkins,
I’m sorry this happened to you. You can certainly sue the individual who killed your dogs. The challenge will be proving what happened. I would suggest reaching out to an attorney in your area and explaining the situation.
Erin says
This past weekend we left our boy, Dallas, with a boarder so we could drive down to NC (we’re in NJ) for a family wedding. We dropped him off on Thursday and he was active, happy, and healthy (for him. He’s a blind diabetic, but prior to this weekend didn’t let that bother him). The boarder texted me multiple times a day. He was fine Friday, but didn’t eat Saturday night or Sunday. She said he seemed tired from playing with the other dogs, but never relayed how bad it was or called our vet or emergency contacts which we left with her. We had someone pick him up for us as we drove home on Monday, and that’s when we realized how bad it was. We immediately called our vet and brought him in as soon as we got home. He was severely dehydrated and had lost an obvious amount of weight. He is still in the vet’s care, but we don’t know if he will make it. My husband and I are obviously heart broken and someone suggested legal action. Do I have grounds?
Debbie says
My dog was shot and died several hours later at the vet’s. It was in my neighbors property and one of 3 people did it but no one will admit to it. Yes my dog was over there but we live in the country and their dog comes over here and plays too. No one has ever complained about Roxy and several other neighbors are also upset. We have to have some type of justice. What can we do?
Alexandria cupp says
My dog was shot and killed with 2 shot gun hits at close range with a bb type bullet. The man did it with my children and husband right there he shot him on our dirt road while being intoxicated and on probation. No charges was ever brought up against this man even with my necropsy report from Michigan state university. Countless witnesses and threats have been made towards my animals with these neighbors for years and bragging how nothing will happen to them because of who they know. April 1st my dog was gunned down and killed by a drunk who was on probation for a dui and wasn’t suppose to be around firearms. He admitted he wasn’t in any harms way and told police he had a rifle and went back in to get his shot gun where he walked approximately 150 feet to the road/edge of my property to kill my dog. And nothing has been done! Prosecutors won’t even return my calls anymore. My kids and I were helpless watching my dog die. Since April my neighbors have had letters sent to my home saying that I have slandered them they are really great friends with the township supervisor so I now get letters about a fence that’s been on my property since I bought the home. This won’t stop! I want him to be help accountable and for the world to know you can’t just go around unlawfully discharging firearms and killing families pets! Please help
Ian Pisarcik says
Erin,
The boarder may very well be liable for negligence if they were careless in responding to your dog’s illness. The challenge will be proving that the dog exhibited severe symptoms and that the boarder should have contacted a vet sooner. I would recommend speaking to an attorney in your area about your case.
Ian Pisarcik says
Debbie,
Sorry this happened to you. I would reach out to an attorney in your area. An attorney can help you investigate the crime (deposing suspects, reviewing any security footage, etc.). If you don’t think you can afford an attorney, try contacting your local bar association and asking for a referral to a free or reduced-cost attorney.
james hendon says
Hi: I live in bossier city, la..and have had dogs as pets for years, with prior to 10/18 my dogs have lived to 12-15 yrs old.
In July 2018, new neighbors moved in with a large number of pitt bulls. On the first day, I met the neighbors to discuss their pitts hitting the wooden privacy fence and breaking boards. In the beginning, I would buy lumber and replaced some baords, while the neighbot would replace most boards. The neighbor does very shoddy work.
After several months, i politely suggested while the fence will support my dogs and supported my previous neighbor;s two pitts, I didnt think it would be effective holding his dogs, and he should consider a new fence. He agreed, but took no action.
On 10/16/2018, my worst fears. Although I only kept my rescue staff terrier in the yard when I was home, his dogs broke the fence, my dog got in their yard and was killed but at least 5 pitts.
Heartbroken, I tried top forgive but after 3 days, his 4 pitts (he hides one pitt as the law states only 4 dogs may be in the back yard) where still jumping on the fence, I calld bossier Animal control who seemed to take his side and took no action.
The fence issues continued when his dogs broke teh fence again and I told him to get his dogs the @#@# out of my yard. He did, then called the police. Somehow he convinced the police I was the bad guy. The fence was paid for by me, and it is on my property. His dogs have also chewed the runners on the fence.
This continued and on 8/5/2019, my mixed breed, about 50 lb rescue whom I kept on a running line, was mauled and died, with an obvious signs of the neighbors dogs pushing the fence boards loose. I took pictures and the animal control worker agreed it showed damage was from their neighbors side.
I only kept him outside tween my work lunch and 5 pm., but my neighbors were home, saw the situation and filed a police report on me, saying my dogs were in his yard. The animal control worker saw my running line which kept him from the fence.
frankly I still struggle thinking of his last moments, attcked by multiple pitts, on a line and unable to fight or run.
What recourse can you suggest?
Any ideas, advice will be greatly appreciated.
Miranda says
My Dalmatian was the sweetest dog ever. I have a chihuahua, and she always growls and tries to bite him. At the vet, a yorkie tried to attack him. All he would do in all of these scenarios, was lie down and roll on his back. My neighbors shot and killed him yesterday. They claimed he killed their chihuahua a few weeks ago, but we never heard anything about this allegation from them. We didn’t even know he had been over there. On the day they shot him, they claimed he killed their other chihuahua. He had never shown any aggression to any other animal at all, wether it was dogs, cats, or horses. I find their allegation very hard to believe. However, if they are true, I feel they should have let us know our dog had wandered over the first time he allegedly killed their dog. I’m not taking very light to this situation. I understand he had made his way to their property, but I feel like killing my dog was not the way to handle this. Is there anything I can do about this?
Ian Pisarcik says
Miranda,
Even if your dog killed their dog, they were wrong to kill your dog. The proper recourse would have been a civil suit. You can certainly sue this family and recover damages (assuming you can prove they killed your dog). I would recommend reaching out to a lawyer in your area. Most attorneys offer free initial consultations where the lawyer can give you a good idea as to the strength of your case.
Kaitlyn says
My ex boyfriend abused me & has taken my dogs. I was able to get one back but he’s refusing to give my other. I need help on how I can fight this. The JSO doesn’t want to really help.
Ian Pisarcik says
Kaitlyn,
Contact your local bar association. Explain the situation and ask for a referral to a free or low-cost attorney to help.
Breanna says
I was working in my yard and decided to go talk to a neighbor across the street. I had one dog with me and the other in the house. My neighbors and I saw a guy speeding down the street and we yelled for him to slow down. About 15 mins later I saw another neighbor looking for something. I asked him and he said he was looking for his dog. At that time my son came out the door of my house and went to cross the street. When he opened the door my other dog got out and came running along with my son. The speeding car came driving back down the street again. I yelled stop stop stop and my son stopped in time but my little dog did not. The guy hit my dog and drug him about 5 feet down the road. The neighbor looking for his dog chased the guy down because he just kept driving. He found him stopped at the closest bar and called the police. I grabbed my dog and took off with him to the emergency vet. The police were dispatched to the bar and the officer said that the guy was clearly drunk but because of the time lapse from the call and them actually getting to the guy (45 mins)they cannot prove that he was drunk at the time. The officer drove the guy home and he came to my door wasted and talked to my roommate about how he was sorry and didn’t even know he hit a dog. My dog ended up having to get put down because the man hit him so hard that his pelvic bones shattered and were in his stomach. Am I able to go after this guy for the vet bill? I live in Colorado Springs, Co. Please let me know of any resources that you think could help me.
Melissa says
We have reason to believe that our house was broken into and the burglar killed my dog. She was found outside across the street on the road in the middle of the night. He is under arrest now for the pending burglaries. She was scared of the dark and would never run outside. She didn’t look like she was hit by a car but perhaps kicked because she had bruises in her abdomen and two lacerations on her side. The detectives are investigating the incident because the perpetrator was arrested that same night and he previously robbed neighbors on our same street just four days prior. We are all devastated she was a little baby. We have pictures of her and her wounds but we cremated her body.
Melissa Gold says
Dear Melissa, I’m so very sorry to hear what happened to your beloved dog. In most states, a pet is considered personal property. If someone has negligently caused damage or loss to your property, you can file a claim for money damages for the amount lost. In other words, just as you might determine a dollar amount for any lost property inside your home, you can also figure out your dog’s “value” based on age, breed, health, training, and other factors. It could also be based on the cost of a similar breed dog. Of course, money can’t replace a much-loved family member. While courts haven’t traditionally awarded damages for emotional pain in pet abuse cases, they’re beginning to do so. In some circumstances, you might be able to bring a claim for emotional distress.
There are also criminal charges associated with animal abuse. Be sure to let the investigators on the case know about the physical harm you believe your dog suffered. They might add those to any other charges for the alleged perpetrator. If the perpetrator is found guilty of physically abusing your dog, it might make it more likely for you to recover emotional distress damages in a civil lawsuit.
Again, I am so sorry to read your story. Your dog certainly didn’t deserve what happened and I’m sorry you’re dealing with this. I hope that you find comfort in your memories of the good times you shared with your pup. If you’re interested in pursuing civil legal action against this person, you can use the Enjuris Personal Injury Law Firm Directory to find a lawyer near you who can help. Best wishes.
Ian Pisarcik says
Breanna,
I’m so sorry this happened to you. Yes, you can sue this man for hitting your dog. Of course, you’ll have to prove that it was actually him who hit your dog. Fortunately, it sounds like you have some witnesses. I would recommend using our free online directory to locate an attorney in your area. Most attorneys offer a free initial consultation. If you don’t think you can afford an attorney, consider reaching out to the Colorado State Bar Association and asking for a referral to a free or reduced-cost attorney.
Ian Pisarcik says
Alexandria,
I’m sorry this happened to you. I would recommend using our free online directory to reach out to an attorney in your area.
Linda says
A year ago myself and my dog were attacked by 3 pitbulls and the killed my emotional therapy dog in my front yard in Gainesville Florida . Animal Control didn’t come after 4 days and they didn’t pick up the dogs – The police were called and Ambulance. the night of the Attack !
It took the county 2 months to euthanize the dogs and another month to claim them Dangerous !
The owner has yet been charged nor any jail time. After a year has passed , he is saying the roommate left the door unlatched — keep in mind , the dogs were already outside in the backyard barking so there is NO Way they could have gone through the doo if I was banging on the front door !
Anonymous says
My puppy vomited while at doggie daycare. The daycare did not contact me about this, but admitted knowledge he had thrown up and that he had been acting weird since. When I picked him up, he was shaking, barely breathing, and visibly ill. I took him straight to the ER vet. He stayed overnight in an oxygen chamber and spent 24 hours in the ICU. The vet stated that this incident of vomiting at daycare likely was inhaled into his lungs and caused critical aspiration pneumonia. I did sign a contract with the daycare that I could not sue for ordinary negligence, only gross negligence. However, my puppy threw up, the daycare knew and didn’t contact me, and it caused a near death experience. (I feel like that is gross negligence, especially if they told me it is customary policy to contact owners if a dog throws up in their care?) The owner acknowledged what happened and told me she would “pay for my puppy’s medical expenses as I see fit.” She gave me the email I could send my invoices to. I sent them immediately and let her know he would need a follow up x ray, a recheck, and that I would be sending along those invoices as well as any additional medical expenses regarding his pneumonia. I have since taken him for the x ray and recheck, etc. She now doesn’t want to pay for anything. Can I sue for either breach of verbal contract or negligence? Something else?
Yareni says
Hi, we left my dog (little less that a year old Chihuahua) with the trainer/ boarding person, while we were on vacation for a week. The day before pick up she call me and told me that he died after being involved in a dog fight. She took him to the emergency room and paid for it. But my dog was my little son only friend, so, my son is doing so bad missing my dog. We are thinking about ask for a therapist and getting another dog. My questions is.. the boarding/trainer should be responsible financially for the therapist cost and the cost to getting another dog? . BTW we leave in Georgia
Ronnie reece says
I was walking my very well trained boxer 2 year old and a man Came out and sicked his German Shepard on my dog talking about a dog fight, my dog was my son in every way so I picked him up and held him against the wall so the dog would bite me. Well the guy got upset I guess since his plan didn’t work so he pulled a gun and started shooting and hit my dog and killed him. I need something done to this man whether it be lawsuit or jail but something so I don’t have to handle this myself which I will if need be. I loved my dog, I had a funeral for him and I personally built his coffin and head stone, someone please help me
Melissa Gold says
Oh, Ronnie, I am so very sorry for your loss. A pet, as you mentioned, feels like your own child, and I know you’re devastated over what happened.
It sounds like there are a few issues, here. First, it sounds like this person might have acted criminally, both by shooting your dog and even perhaps by putting your life in danger.
The question I would ask you is whether you know the identity of this person. Unless you have a way to identify him, there’s probably not too much you can do as a civil legal matter. If you were walking your dog near your home and you’re familiar with the area, you could ask around to see if there were any witnesses. You should also call the police to report the incident because they might be able to obtain security camera footage that can be used to help make an identification. Either way, this sounds like something that you should report to the police even if you don’t know the person’s name. It sounds as though this person’s behavior is dangerous, and the police department might have other reports about him, or might want to be on the lookout. The police department might also have ways to identify him, even if you don’t know who he is.
With respect to a civil (non-criminal) lawsuit, that’s also possible. Without knowing what the evidence is, I couldn’t tell you if you’re likely to be successful, but killing a pet on purpose (or negligently) is a cause of action in a civil suit. Finally, if you’d like to settle the matter without court costs, you could sue him in small claims court (again, if you know who he is). Small claims doesn’t offer damages for pain and suffering, but if you’d like to recover costs for replacing your dog, this could be an option.
Again, I am so sorry for your loss. Take care.
Ian Pisarcik says
Yareni,
Under the law, dog’s are treated like property. Therefore, if someone negligently caused the loss of your dog, you could potentially sue them for the cost to replace the dog. With that being said, it’s often difficult to prove negligence in dog-boarding-accident cases. What’s more, there’s the chance that you signed a waiver of liability when you boarded your dog. I would recommend speaking to an attorney in your area. Most attorneys offer free initial consultations. You can use our free online directory to locate an attorney.
Denise Laing says
I moved into a “pet friendly” apartment complex in Alpharetta Ga. I lived there for just one day and my dog slipped through the bars of the 3rd floor balcony of my apartment and due to her severe injuries I had to put her down. Do I have a case against the apartment complex. I moved out 3 days later. They where so unsympathetic and only gave me back my dog fee and admin charge. I had my dog for 12 years she was my baby and I am so devastated. She suffered so much before she died.
Ian Pisarcik says
Denise,
I’m so sorry this happened to you. It sounds like the construction of the balcony in the apartment might be considered a “dangerous condition.” I would need to know more to determine whether the balcony is in fact a dangerous condition (does the spacing between the bars meet housing standards, etc.). Landlords generally have a duty to fix dangerous conditions. If they fail to do so, and someone (in this case, your dog) is injured as a result, the landlord can potentially be held liable. I would recommend meeting with an attorney in your area if you want to pursue this matter. Most initial consultations are free. When you meet with the attorney, bring along a photograph of the balcony. The attorney should be able to tell you relatively quickly whether you have a case or not.
Denise Laing says
Thank you Ian for your response. The apartment complex is only 4 years old. The property manager said they passed the code for humans according to Georgia state ordinance. However the space between the gaurd rails was wide enough for my dog to slip through. Are they any ordinaces’s for balconies when it comes to pets. Why advertised pet friendly and not give me a warning if this is not the case? My dog was a Cockapoo she was about 13lbs and she was about 14 years old. I had her for 12 years.
Ian Pisarcik says
I’m so sorry this happened to you.
The offer to pay medical expenses likely wasn’t a valid contract. So, your best option is to sue for gross negligence. Based on the information you provided, it’s hard to know whether the daycare’s actions (or inaction) rose to the level of gross negligence. I would recommend meeting with an attorney in your area. Most initial consultations are free, and the attorney will be able to tell you whether your case is worth pursuing.
Ian Pisarcik says
James,
It sounds like your neighbor’s negligence (failing to secure the fence) lead to the death of your dog. As a result, your neighbor could be liable for the fair market value of your dog (or, your dog’s intrinsic value in some state) and the emotional duress you suffered. To recover damages, you could potentially file a lawsuit in small claims court or your state court. Of course, you’ll have to prove that your neighbor’s dogs were responsible in order to recover any damages. I would recommend reaching out to an attorney. Most initial consultations are free and the attorney can tell you whether they think you have a valid claim.
If you need help finding an attorney, you can use our free online directory.
Ian Pisarcik says
Alexandria,
You need to contact the police if you feel you are in danger. Similarly, you may consider reaching out to a criminal attorney if you want to obtain a restraining order.
In terms of civil liability, you can file a personal injury lawsuit against the man who killed your dog in order to recover damages.
Ashley Hayes says
On November 4th, Monday of this past week, my husband opened our back door, that leads to our completely fenced-in backyard, to let our 5-pound Chihuahua out to go potty. As soon as he opened the door, there were 3 huge pit bulls waiting by the door, and instantly snatched her up and killed her. They had chewed a hole through our fence and were just waiting for her as soon as the door opened. When I heard my husband screaming, I ran out, pushed him aside, and tried grabbing “Grandma”. The 3 pit bulls ripped her out of my arms again and tried dragging her back through the hole in the fence. I was able to get her out of their jaws, but then they attacked me, as I had her in my arms. They were mauling me, jumping on me, biting at me, but I was able to get back to the door to the garage, kicking at them. Right as I was almost to safety, one of the pit bulls jumped up and knocked me flat on my back on the concrete garage floor, where I also landed with my ribs on a table in the garage. My husband was able to slam the door, getting them away from me, and as he called 911, they stayed outside the door for 5 minutes or so, barking and trying to get through the door. They broke “Grandma’s” neck, ripped off half of her face, and would’ve killed me had I been knocked onto the ground in the backyard, as I had been in the garage. Animal law enforcement, police, ambulance all came, but in the meantime, the owner of the pit bulls took them someplace to hide them. When animal enforcement tried to impound the dogs, the owners’ story changed 3 times. When authorities left that evening, they said they were on their way to get an arrest and search warrant, but we haven’t heard anything since then. The local news did a story on it, interviewed us, and stated that “until these dogs are located, the city is in danger, as these dogs are violent and have a history of attacking people.” The neighbors told police they had just recently moved in to the rental house, as I’ve never even seen pit bulls in the backyard behind us. The owner of the house, who’s renting to the pit bull owners, told us that just a few weeks before, the pit bulls had jumped the front fence and cornered a man, almost killing him. At that time, the owner told the renters they were to get rid of all but one dog. Obviously they didn’t comply. At this point, officials said they are trying to get warrants for the owner of the pit bulls and trying to locate where he’s hiding them. This has been extremely traumatic for us all, as she was a family dog, and seeing her killed before our eyes, then being mauled myself, has been a nightmare. After my adrenaline had slowed, I woke up the next morning, hardly able to move. I went to Urgent Care at which time I was told I have severe contusions to my ribs, abrasions, a dog bite to my foot, and I am black and blue down my entire back and rib cage, from being knocked into the table and concrete floor. We tried calling one lawyer the morning after this happened, at which time he literally said “there’s not enough money in it for me. If half your face had been ripped off or if you were permanently disfigured, I’d take it, but there’s not enough money in it for me.” There’s gotta be something we can do, not only for emotional distress and loss of our dog in front of our eyes, but also for the medical bills I’ve incurred from the pit bulls mauling me. Please advise if there is something we can do, as we face this traumatic event. Here’s a link to the news story about it:
https://www.kktv.com/content/news/Group-of-pit-bulls-reportedly-mauls-and-kills-chihuahua-in-Colorado-Springs-attacks-owner-564643681.html
Ian Pisarcik says
Ashley,
I’m so sorry this happened to you and your dog. In general, you can receive compensation for the loss of your dog, the injuries to your body, and the mental anguish you went through as a result of the attack. In addition, the owner of the dog may face criminal charges. I would recommend reaching out to another attorney in Colorado. Just because one attorney isn’t able to take your case (perhaps the attorney you talked to had too much on their plate), doesn’t mean another won’t. Keep reaching out to attorneys until you find one that is willing to meet with you and discuss your case.
Amy says
Neighbor’s child threw a pacifier into our fenced-in yard and our Boxer ingested it. He wasn’t able to pass it and needed to have it surgically removed or he’d have to be put down. Opted for the surgery of course. Is neighbor (who is renting) or actual home owner able to be held liable for this to re-coop the money for vet bill? Or are we just SOL?
Ian Pisarcik says
Amy,
Most states have parental liability laws that will hold parents liable for the negligent acts of their child. With that being said, most states hold that a child is incapable of being “negligent” if they’re under the age of 4. What’s more, it’s not clear that throwing a pacifier over a fence would be deemed negligent (unless perhaps this has happened before). I would recommend trying to appeal to the kindness of your neighbors. Perhaps they would be willing to split the cost, etc.
Amy says
Thank you. I appreciate your response. What has happened before are numerous shirts, shoes, balls, toys, etc, being thrown into the yard. But nothing else has caused any damage, so to speak, until the pacifier.
Barbara J Pflugi says
A member of my Minnesota hunting party took a shot at a bird, missed the bird and killed my hunting dog. My beloved companion was wearing a GPS tracker, a bell and an orange vest. What should I do?
Ian Pisarcik says
Barbara,
I’m sorry this happened to you. In order to recover damages, you would need to show that the hunting member was negligent. You can find more about proving negligence here. Without more information, it’s hard to say whether the member was negligent or not. It’s always a good idea to meet with an attorney in your area to see how strong your case is. Most initial consultations are free and the attorney will be able to listen to your story and tell you whether you have a strong case or not. If you need help finding a personal injury attorney, you can use our online directory.
Myrna says
Recently, the death of my dog who was 11 yrs 9 mos. old was caused by the neighbor’s mixed breed pit bull dog who laid in wait under the deck of the main entrance/exit door. It ran out jumped onto the deck and knocked my dog off the deck onto the ground mauling her. ER trip was made and we thought she would pull through from her multiple serious wounds. This was on a Wed. and on Sat. we brought her home only to return her Monday late a.m. where she remained until Sun when she died from her wounds. The vet did all she could for her during the stay. The neighbor who owns two male mixed breed pits allowed her dogs to be off leash when outdoors. In the Springtime this year, my husband took both our dogs for a potty break outside close to the house and the neighbor and her group of people had been standing and congregated at the driveway socializing while the pit breed was walking amongst them. My older dog barked at what was not the normal view of what she sees outside and the pit breed supposedly broke free from a tied rope and came onto our place; no fence between properties and attempted to go after my old gal who turned tail and ran as fast as she could yelping and I let her inside, but the smaller dog was on a harness and my husband was standing a foot or two from her. The pit breed turned toward the little dog when it couldn’t have my older one and attacked it. Everyone standing congregating never noticed the pit breed had left the area or gotten loose (which I question as to that statement made of it being tied up) and when my little dog yelped in pain, they all saw what was happening and the owner came and pulled her pittie off my little Malshi. ER trip was made and she stayed a couple nights before bringing home and she fully recovered. Between the two seasons of my dog’s being attacked on their own property, the neighbor’s pit breed trespassed and was reported twice to the county animal shelter. We were told the neighbor was cited for both trespasses, but after I gathered paperwork from the county public records requesting all citations made against the neighbor, we learned she was only cited 3 times and not even for the first dog bite attack made on our smaller dog. When asked why to the chief warden of the animal shelter, we were told that the neighbor reported to them that our older dog had barked and incited the incident and that the neighbor stated she saw our older dog on her premise two days prior to the first attack. Then in another account of the same incident, the neighbor stated she wasn’t sure if my older dog was on her place or not. We caught the neighbor in several lies days after the first incident and I asked the dog warden why she believed her statements over our own. The warden didn’t say a word. All this emotional stress most of this year has been handled unsatisfactorily re: animal shelter lying about citations given and a neighbor’s lying explanation. I finally after my old dog died who had no big health issues and we figured she’d be with us for a lot more years. Even the vet wrote a report about the care of our dogs and she was distraught at the 2012 non-ban of pit bulls and OH one dog bite. Finally after speaking with commissioners, her attack dog went from being a Nuisance to a Dangerous level all because our dog died from her attack and also my husband was working in the yard and the neighbor’s “same dog” charged after him. He had a pistol ready to shoot it, but the neighbor who was outside with the dog called it back. Apparently, she bought her dogs shock collars, but why didn’t they work the whole year when they were frequently trespassing and attacking the older dog. The animal shelter is not allowed to relay to the neighbor to suggest a wire basket muzzle on the dogs when outdoors which if the dogs were to get loose, they could not harm someone other to jump/knock down. This is one owner who is most certainly not doing all that should be done to protect people/pets not her own. I filed charges against the neighbor even though she said she fully understands she is responsible this time unlike the first time when she said it was our dog’s fault who never left the property. I’m weary of watching the neighbor this year keep her dog off leash and us having to look outside before taking our dogs out to go potty and come right back inside with us. If I’d have known her pit was under the deck no way would anyone have gone out our door. I saw my older dog getting mauled and I was screaming and trembling badly until someone pulled the dog off. It was my husband who risked getting bitten as he got it off her and held it until the neighbor’s son came and took it back home. I’ve just had it with her negligence. I wish to file for emotional distress for everything her dog brought to our lives and hope we get it besides being fully compensated for 4 ER trips made and gas used, two of our dogs attacked on their own property, frequent trespasses, a greatly loved pet’s death and finally the encounter of charging dog at my husband. I do not have legal representation and planned to speak for myself. Is that advisable as I have all my orderly records for the year of accounts and one commissioner stated if need be, he would speak up for me too.
Ian Pisarcik says
Myrna,
Depending on the amount of damages you are requesting, it may be best to file your claim in small claims court. You are certainly entitled to represent yourself. With that being said, an attorney can help you prepare your case and also determine what damages you may be entitled to under the law. If you can’t afford an attorney, you may be able to get free or reduced-cost legal help by contacting your local state bar.
Bebe A says
I was incarcerated for 33 days during that time I wrote my former boyfriend (who was my bf at time) how and where to get my 15 year old dogs insulin and what to do if my dog passed before I was able to get released. I specifically told him I wanted my dog cremated and how to pay for the cremation. Unfortunately my dog did pass before I could get released ( I was extradited to another state in which upon release I could not leave until; trial).. My former bf told me that my dog passed, but would not go into specifics when I asked and the story changed. I requested the ashes and got the ruin around every time. When I was able to return to the state that I was in during the arrest to gather my belongings my dog was not found. My former bf continued to withhold the information as to what happened and what he did with my dogs body. I have found out that he never purchased any insulin after I was arrested and basically allowed my dog to die of a diabetic shock/coma. Im devastated I cannot get closure nor get him to either give me the remains or tell me what he did period, Can I do anything?
Kristian says
I lock my dogs up everyday before I go to work and then let them out when I come home. My dog was barking so my roommate let him out of his crate and then left the house for hours. My dog tore through my trash and is now in the hospital due to puking blood. The bills are going to be thousands of dollars and my wife and I are expecting in a couple months. Am I able to sue my roommate for compensation even if it’s just bills?
Candace says
Hi – I live in California. My neighbor lets his 2 Frenchies roam our small neighborhood. They will both come over to play with us and our dog, and get treats. We love his dogs. December 2019 I was driving down our small, private street and saw his dogs come out from underneath our motorhome with rat poison in their mouths. They had crawled under our gate and under the motorhome. I immediately told his teenage son and friend who works for my neighbor about the dogs and they should probably get the dogs to puke. I called my neighbor 2 hours later to be sure that his son and friend and notified him of the dogs eating poison. He said yes they did tell him. Apparently, my neighbor called a vet and they told him to just keep an eye on the dogs. Well after a few days one of the dogs (only 1 year) couldn’t hold anything down. They finally took him to the vet and he barely made it. Now my neighbors girlfriend wants him to come after our insurance for the $10,000 vet bill. We want to offer $1,000 toward the bill, because we love his dogs and to keep peace, but we don’t want to look like we’re liable. His dogs came onto our property! We would like him to sign something stating that we are not held liable by giving him the $1,000. What type of wording should we use? Any other information to help us would be appreciated.
Karly says
I was staying in an RV on a family’s property while I was doing work for them. Their dog got into a closed tackle box I had under the RV and swallowed the fishing hooks I had stored in there. The owners now want me to pay the vet bills. I feel bad but I don’t have that kind of money. Am I responsible for the bills?
Ian Pisarcik says
Karly,
If the tackle box was closed and under your RV, a court would probably not find you liable. Negligence requires that you failed to exercise reasonable care. This probably does not rise to that level because you wouldn’t have foreseen that the dog would crawl under the RV and open the tackle box (unless the dog has done it in the past).
Ian Pisarcik says
You would have to prove that your roommate was negligent. It’s unlikely that a court would find your roommate negligent for letting your barking dog outside in your yard (even for a few hours) unless you specifically told him not to do to the risk of eating the trash.
Dawn says
Our dog got out of our yard & cut through a neighbors yard to go to the lake. The neighbor, a seasoned hunter, shot him in the side of the neck & the bullet hit his brain & exited his opposite ear. He made his way home & collapsed in our living room. We immediately got to to an after hours emergency vet & they sedated him, put him on a steroid drop to reduce the swelling in his brain & kept him that night. He had bleeding from his ear drums & brain stem & his right eye was droopy like he had had a stroke. After 2 weeks & a couple more visits to the ER vet, he seems to be doing ok. Not himself yet but he’s alive & is becoming his happy self again. My question is can I sue for reimbursement of our vet bills & loss of wages from taking time off work to care for my fur baby. The man who shot him has threatened other neighbors animals & he KNEW it was our dog & KNEW we keep him in the house & if he’s outside, he’s in a fenced yard. He just happened to escape the yard that day. He’s 8 years old, arthritic & harmless. There was NO sense in shooting him. He tried to say he just shot to scare him but you don’t aim AT the dog if your intent is to scare. Please help me so I know if I can sue him in civil/small claims court? We live in Nacogdoches Co. Texas. Thank you!
Ian Pisarcik says
Dawn,
I’m so sorry this happened to your dog. You can certainly sue your neighbor in small claims court (if the amount of damages you’re requesting falls below the maximum allowed in small claims court).
As a general rule, if a person intentionally injures a dog, they’re liable for the damages. There are a few exceptions that don’t appear to be present here (self defense, protecting livestock, etc.). If the neighbor didn’t intentionally injure your dog, he could still be sued under the theory of negligence.
Ashley Stratton says
I was in the process of moving out of my friends house, we were best friends. My fiance moved in and things changed the friendship fell apart due to everyone not getting along. Despite all that, in jan. I had begun the packing and moving process being without a vehicle it made it hard to make it over to my past residence, with that being said, i had left my 2-3yr old banana ball python in his terrarium heat light, refilled water he had two big bowls in rock formation fed him 2 mice every month, well during my moving, the owners of the house decided they didnt want me to be able to come and go as i was able to when transportation was available. So they changed all the locks on the doors, preventing me from getting my pet, i had fed him already his 2 mice for january, but come February i was unable to get them to meet me to get my pet and the rest of my belongings. I have dated messages, calls, stating i needed to feed, water, and check on my snake. I was ignored or given an excuse or just blatently told that my ex best friend went by there checked on him gave him water and he was fine. THIS however was not the case, i had begged since the 18th of january to come get my snake by mid feb after been ignored given the run around , multiple excuses they finally let me come retrieve my belongings, around feb 18 . Then low and behold because they had changed the locks, made it impossible to meet with me when i had requested several times since the 18th of jan, Finally now my ex friends father was finally able to meet with us and let us in feb. 18 , thats when my fiance went in straight to bananas terrarium, water bowls dry as a bone, the inside not moist at all, dried up blood coming from out of the snakes nostrils as he lay there coiled up dead. Needless to say i immediately stopped gathering my belongings and left tears falling from my eyes, heart broken, and devastated. She had just messaged me a few days earlier telling me she checked on him and he was fine, such an unlikely statement. The only reason they finally met with me is because their pest man needed to do some treatments to the house that could therefore cause harm or death to my snake, and i was advised i come get him before the pest man came like id been trying to do prior to the treatments ever being discussed to begin with. There was no lease, just an agreement among 2 friends, and thats it i paid rent every month and towards utilities, put food in the house, kept house, clothes, dishes, everything clean, despite the 2 dogs a husky and a puppy she kept locked in a kennel 24 7 365, except for when my fiance cleaned the kennels, dogs bowls, dogs, and walked the dogs, fed and watered them. Now my 3yr old son who absolutely adored our beloved “Banana” has asked about him nearly every day you cant be around him without him asking about his snake. I got no apology, no explanation, no nothing after the day i went to go pick him up.
Is there a case here?
Is there anything i can do im from sherwood Arkansas 72120 ?
What kind of case would this be ?
What steps do i need to take to file a case?
Who do i call?
Can someone please give me some kind of answer here please, i have a 3yr old wondering where his snake is. I dont have the heart to tell him his aunt killed his snake, he nor our pet did anything to deserve this kind of treatment at all.
Sincerely,
Ashley S.
Melissa Gold says
Hello, Ashley. I am so sorry to hear this about your beloved pet. Your best bet is to consult a lawyer to find out if you have recourse. It sounds like what you’re asking is if you can file a civil claim. You might be able to make a claim for the value of the snake. However, if you lived with a friend without a lease agreement contract, there could be a question as to owned the snake and what your rights were once you were in the process of moving out. You could start in small claims court to recover the value of the snake; although you’re understandably upset, stick to the facts and financial cost associated with your claim. You can contact the Sherwood local court for more information.
Gigi says
Hello can I sue the Vet for put my dog to sleep because she claimed that it was my only choice and this hospital has few cases like this and I wish I’ve read their reviews before I bought my baby there, she would have a chance to live if I took her somewhere else. I took her to the same hospital for ultrasound and 2 days later she has a seizer and I took her to the emergency room, the same hospital where she got her ultrasound, after 30 minutes later, the vet said I should euthanasia my dog , meanwhile she was still breathing and heart still beating. They put my dog to sleep without asking me and asked me to sign the authorization after they killed my dog. I was not at the right stage and I signed the paper without reading it. They made decision for me and I never told them I want to put my dog to sleep. I ask for the details report and the vet lied in the report that I elect euthanasia because I can’t decide if I want to continue to treatment. I’m so heartbroken I want to sue them for killing my dog , I’m so emotional stressed as I have emotional disorder and my dog gave me comfort during the difficult time , now I’m back to the ugly me again. Please help me how to sue the business and the vet. I live in New York.
Ian Pisarcik says
Gigi,
I’m so sorry this happened to you. The veterinarian can be sued for medical malpractice if the vet’s actions fell below the professional standard of care. In other words, you’ll have to prove that the vet acted in a way that a reasonable vet in the same situation would not have acted. It’s impossible for me to tell whether this is the case without reviewing the medical records and talking to other veterinarians.
Medical malpractice lawsuits can be expensive (due to the need to retain medical experts to testify). Nevertheless, you should meet with an attorney in your area to discuss your options. Remember, most free initial consultations are free. You can use our online directory to locate an attorney in your area.
Etc.. says
4 yes ago I had an English Mastiff he was 9 yes old, my neighbor did not like him all of the sudden he started trembling and shaking and acting very strange for three days I tried to keep an eye on him well he died. Three years later I had another English Mastiff and a chi miss and a cat, my house was repeatedly broken into, my dogs were in a cage, For four months they kept having blue eyes and were shaking and trembling and then I started to think this was how my last English Mastiff died, I asked a neighbor and he just froze up, said he had no idea. Then he went in his refrigerator and pulled out a bottle and put in his pocket, I thought this was weird he was acting a little funny. I went home a looked it up on Google and it said it could possibly be from prednisone he has a dog with no hair and that’s what he gives to his dog that causes the blue eyes, the shaking and the trembling and can kill a dog or cat, is there anything I can do about this. I’ve changed my locks and watch my dogs very closely when outside. Can I sue him? I paid $1200 for the first Mastiff the one I have now was one of his puppies. My dogs dont like him at all and they love everyone. I just want to know is there anything I can do?
Ian Pisarcik says
Thanks for the comment.
You can certainly sue someone if they poisoned your dog. In most cases, you can recover the cost of the dog, as well as receive some compensation for your mental anguish. The challenge in this case will be proving that your neighbor actually poisoned your dog. At the moment, it sounds like all you have is suspicion. An attorney can help build a case against the neighbor, but you’ll have to weigh the cost of an attorney to the relatively small amount of money that you would recover if you were able to prove that your neighbor is guilty.
elizabeth says
So a week my mom called me telling me that some man came to our house upset telling us that our dogs killed their cat and if we didn’t take care of our dogs he would shoot our dogs and it was strange to me because my dogs are the most loving dogs you’ll ever meet they love everyone especially children so it’s really strange to me but can they take matters into their our hands ?
Ian Pisarcik says
Elizabeth,
Your neighbor is absolutely not permitted under the law to kill your dogs for any reason other than self-defense. I would certainly take steps to keep your dogs away from your neighbor’s cats (as you could face civil liability if your dogs injure his cats). In addition, you might consider filing a police report if you believe your neighbor is dangerous.
RiverBendAR says
A UPS delivery driver hit our dog with his truck. Her neck was broken from the impact. My husband was home when she was hit but did not witness the event. Within minutes of her death, he found our dog’s lifeless body lying in the ditch next to our county road, approximately 15 feet from our mailbox. My husband then discovered the delivery truck driver had left a UPS post-it note on our front door with a message that read, “Call about dog”, & the phone number for the local UPS warehouse. The UPS warehouse manager would not give us any information about the event, but we did receive a call from the local driver’s Union steward, who disclosed to us the explanation given to management by the driver who hit our dog, & we easily determined that driver had not been honest with his management, as he claimed in his statement that he had hit our dog 50+ yards from where my husband found her body. We strongly suspect the driver was traveling at a speed in excess of the 20mph limit, & when combined with his unfamiliarity with our subdivision & limited experience as a new driver for the company, these factors led to his negligence & our dog’s death. The real kicker in this situation is, the package he was attempting to deliver was not for us, it was for our neighbor. Our home is the last one at the end of our dead-end county road. The driver had missed our neighbor’s driveway 100 yards up the road from our house, & he hit our dog on his way back up the hill after he had turned around in the cul-de-sac in front of our house. We were told by the driver’s Union steward that UPS has GPS software in each delivery truck that records the truck’s speed & location at 3-second intervals. UPS management has denied us access to the truck’s GPS info, & refuses to confirm any of the data from the truck to which they are privy. We believe UPS management is attempting to protect the company, or their driver, or both from a potential negligence lawsuit. Can anyone advise us as to how we should proceed?
Ian Pisarcik says
I’m so sorry this happened to you. Most commercial delivery trucks are equipped with software that records the vehicle’s speed. This information is relatively easy for an attorney to obtain through discovery and the data could help to support your claim that the driver was speeding when he hit your dog.
I would recommend meeting with an attorney in your area if you wish to pursue litigation against UPS. Keep in mind that, in cases involving a deceased pet, courts generally only award damages for the “replacement value” of the pet. I understand this hardly seems fair, but it’s generally the case and therefore something to be considered when deciding whether to hire an attorney. Regardless, most attorneys offer free initial consultations and can discuss your case and recoverable damages in greater detail.
Debbie says
My heart hurts for my niece:
My niece came home from working the other day to her 3 pound little dog she was in her upstairs apartment when she heard her front door open and her door ran to the front room thinking it’s her collage roommate. She heard her little furry guy yelp so she ran to the front room to see the guy that lives below them 50 pound pittbull attacking her dog it was in his mouth slingling it back and forth she did everything she could do to rescue him. Finally after kicking the dog time and time he drop the 3 pound dog cover in blood she pick him up and ran out the door ( thank God the front door has arm that automatically close it . She ran for help – got the dog to the vet but he passed away . The vet did autopsy to show what the dog
died from puncture lungs . Police and animal control was called – police said due to two dogs fighting ? ( really 3 pound and 50 pound pittbull ) that was put in her apartment it’s a animal control problem . I love animals and I rescue animals . Yes the guy has enter her home twice with out her permission but not caught on camera (once to let the dog in – then to get it out ) . I’m sad for the Pitt because he has a bad owner who has taught him bad thing that may cost him his life . But I want the owner what can we do ? I read some stories above so sorry the world is like it is .
Ashley says
Hello my 17 year old son has had some issues with behaviors and even suicidal issues after much needed therapy and treatment our therapist suggested giving him a responsibility, what better responsibility than a pet he could love a care for. Long story short he actually ended falling in love with his new guy, behaviors changed for the best and he’s felt as if has a purpose now. Over the weekend a driver came through their driveway speeding hitting the dog injuring him to the point emergency vet services were needed for several fractured, hip dislocation, antibiotics for severe road rash and pain medication. They lady was approached and asked why she didn’t stop to help him after she hit him and told my son “it’s just a dog”. We are awaiting healing of pelvis fractured before hip surgery can be performed per our vet. Is their anything I can do to hold her responsible for her actions?
Ian Pisarcik says
Ashley,
The woman can certainly be sued for the medical expenses associated with the pet, as well (depending on your state) the emotional duress the incident caused your son. Depending on the damages, it may be worth suing in her in small claims court. Regardless, you might consider reaching out to an attorney in your area for a free consultation or even contacting your state bar association to see if there is a free or reduced-cost attorney who can help.
Melissa Gold says
Hello, Debbie. I’m sorry that your niece is having to deal with this. I think there’s more than one issue here. I know she’s very upset about her dog’s passing, but I am equally concerned about how this person was able to get into her apartment without her permission. If your niece is having a problem with someone breaking in and entering her apartment without her permission, she should call the police. Her safety needs to be protected, too. If the person was given permission to be there (for example, if she has a roommate who let him in), and the issue is just about the dog, she can contact a lawyer who can advise about whether or not she has a case against the dog’s owner.
Dog Owner Of Cocker Spaniel Poodle says
I cannot believe this happened!
Earlier today, May-20-2020, my Dog’s birthday was today! He turned 11 years old today and very healthy. He got to eat his ice cream with sprinkles right before this happened. My mom was walking my dog Shiloh, and was coming across another dog that was being walked by an owner. She said she saw the dog started to pull the owner in recognition of my baby Shiloh. My mom told me that the owner of the dog DID NOT have control over his dog. The dog was so aggressive to get to Shiloh, though it was raining, the owner was weakened by how hard the dog was pulling so he slip and fell on the slippery ground letting the dog loose to my dog! My mom told me that the dog became so aggressive that he jaw locked on Shiloh’s neck, breaking it, taking a chunk of his neck OFF! Multiple neighbors were concerned so they did everything they could to help. My mom called me crying saying to come to her Shiloh is hurt! So by the the time I came there was police officer there NOT DOING ANYTHING BUT STANDING THERE! While my mom was yelling from another car to follow her to the hospital! The owner of the aggressive dog was still on LAYING ON TOP of his dog trying to control it! STILL COULDNT CONTROL THE DOG, WHILE THE OFFICER WATCHES THE OWNER STRUGGLE. My mom (She was not hurt) was covered in blood, and my dog was even bloodier. while the police a officer didn’t even think to shoot the dog! Like why was the cop there? To show his face? So I yelled to the police officer “SHOOT THE D$%M DOG” and he said that he couldn’t do that and if I didn’t leave (the apartment complex I live in!) then I would be arrested! WHAT? May I mention that the owner of the dog is WHITE and my mother and I are BLACK! My dog was a rare breed, cocker spaniel poodle! No dog could replaced his humanized personality. He couldn’t even harm a human let alone another dog even if he had the ability! When I left to go to the animal hospital and upon arrival he was pronounced dead!. The wife of the dog owner decided to reach out to us and pay for the cremation! Which was ok but $100 is not gonna keep my mother and I sane. She didn’t go to work today or doesn’t plan to go tomorrow. My mom is in so much pain because my mom had to carry him to the hospital while he all messed up. That was my baby I had since I was 14 and I will be 25 next week! His birthday was earlier today. His bday is 7 days before mine! It doesn’t even feel the same anymore coming home to him not jumping on me! I gave him lots of treats and hugs this morning right before the incident. I missssss hiiiiimmmm sssoooo muuuucccch! What could I do.? Is this considered a crime because my dog was brutally murdered! I need answers. My mom says she will think to sue but don’t know how to go about it! HELP! MY BABY IS GONE FOREVER!!!! WHAT CAN WE DO?
Cari says
I left my dog at home in a crate while I went to get my car fixed. A few hours later I returned home and my dog was lying in the crate and wouldn’t come to me. I picked him up out of the crate and noticed he was limping. I rushed him to the emergency vet where they said that it would cost $6000 to preform surgery or they could amputate his leg for cheaper….his fibula and tibia are broken in half. The only person home with him was my dad who swears he doesn’t know what happened. My dad hates my dog. The vet said the injury didn’t happen in his crate. I don’t know if I should contact the police? My mom doesn’t want me to. I am heartbroken. I live in Pennsylvania and I dont have $6000.
Ian Pisarcik says
Cari,
I’m sorry this happened to you. If your dad injured your dog, you could file a personal injury lawsuit (likely in small claims court) against him for the cost of the surgery. However, you would have to prove that your dad injured your dog. This would likely require expert testimony, which could get costly. Your best bet might be to explore financing (through a program like CareCredit) to pay for the surgery.
As for contacting the police, only you can make that decision. Here are a couple of questions you might consider: How confident are you that your dad injured your dog? If your dad is capable of injuring your dog, what else is he capable of?
Anonymous says
My dog injured “by accident” while being cared for by my boyfriend at the time and then a week later died from a “seizure” while also in his care. Both incidents happened while I was at work. I know he did something to her and she was neglected in his care and died from that. What can I do, do I have a case here?
Ian Pisarcik says
Thank you for your question.
You can sue your boyfriend for negligence if his careless actions or inaction lead to the death of your dog. Unfortunately, this is a very difficult case to prove (unless there are witnesses, an autopsy report, or an attorney can get your boyfriend to admit to something under oath). What’s more, the civil damages available in this type of case are generally the fair market value of a new dog. All of that is to say that you will likely spend more money pursuing a lawsuit than you would recover.
Nevertheless, if you want to pursue a case, I would consider reaching out to a personal injury attorney to discuss your options. You can also call your state bar association to see if there are any free or reduced-cost legal services available.
Random kid says
Hi i am just a kid with age 15 but i would like to ask on what can i do because there is a puppy outside our house and i chose to always feed him and since then we are taking care of him since the last 4years but he is always outside and we can’t touch him but now our neighbor reported that the dog was pooping infront of their house and i think they would take him and kill him is it legal for them to do that?
Ian Pisarcik says
Thank you for the comment. It is absolutely not legal for your neighbors to kill a dog for going to the bathroom in their yard.
Here are some tips from the humane society about how to help a stray pet.
Guy Leinbach says
We purchased a small horse stable a few months ago in Brooksville FL. Net door is 2 aggressive pits that com to the fence and bark constantly and the other day when I was walking the fence on of the dogs attacked a tree and destroyed it. 2 months later one of our smaller dogs was by the fence and both p[its grabbed her and tore up her head ..we had to take her to the dr. but we let it slide as to not make waves with the new neighbors. Lat night the same neighbor called and said one of our dogs was hit by a car and while the family believed it I knew something was wrong. Today someone called us and told us that he was driving by and say our beloved Roscoe being pulled thru the fence by these same pit bulls and they destroyed his head to the point of killing him. I called the Sheriff and Animal control to make a report but not sure what recourse we have …
Falon says
My mom took her 16 year old Great Pyrenees to the groomer yesterday. After 4 hours we received a phone call saying she was ready to be picked up but she was exhausted and couldn’t walk. Two employees carried her out to the car and we carried her into the house. I contacted the groomer after a few hours after she tried to stand up and walk and fell forward because she couldn’t bare any weight on one of her front legs. I asked them to review the camera footage because something obviously had happened while she was there. They contacted us this morning and said that when the put the dog grooming table (which they had to lifter her up on to) back towards the ground she jumped of (it was about 12 inches off the ground at this point) and she couldn’t walk after that. They never informed is of this until after I asked them to review the camera footage. We took her to the Emergency Veterinary Hospital and they said her leg was broken and at her age there was nothing they could do. They had to put her to sleep. Are they Financially responsible for her injuries? She walked in just fine and left with a broken leg.
Art says
My 2 year old Weimaraner was ran over by a semi while we were playing outside in our yard.
There are a couple of fields around our property and they came on to our driveway. The driver was driving too fast and sped up when she saw our girl barking at her. My mother my nieces and my nephew witnessed everything and they have not stopped crying over this extremely unfortunate situation. Our girl was 6-7 weeks pregnant too. The company has passed this to their insurance, but they are treating me very poorly and are rigging me a hard time and to top it off the agent laughs at our pain. Can you please advise me on what I can do? Thanks in advance.
Ian Pisarcik says
I’m sorry this is happening to you. Here are some tips on dealing with the insurance company. And here is some information about when an insurance company’s actions rise to the level of bad faith, including information about when you might need to bring in an attorney to help.
Ian Pisarcik says
The groomer had a legal obligation to exercise reasonable care to avoid harming your dog. If they failed to exercise reasonable care, they are negligent and you can recover damages. It’s certainly possible that the groomer is negligent in this case. I would recommend meeting with an attorney in your area to discuss your options.
TAMMY GUICE says
I had to go to the hospital in an ambulance and the deputy sheriff told me my dog was safe. I find out she was locked up in our hot house with no food and water. I was dying n he lied to me. Is that considered animal cruelty? What can I do? I was in the hospital and my man in jail. The officer said specifically, “we have your dog and she’s safe which was a LIE AND HE TOOK MY DRIVERS LICENSE AND WON’T GIVE IT BACK AND I WAS THE VICTIM. MESSED WITH MY MIND SEVERELY, NO SLEEP, MIND RUSHING, FREAKING OUT! PLEASE TELL IF I CAN DO ANYTHING!
Melissa Gold says
Hi, Tammy. I’m sorry you’re in this situation. It sounds like there are a lot of factors involved here, and it’s hard to know what your options are without more of the facts of this situation. Is your dog okay now, or did something happen? How long were you in the hospital and the dog was alone? It’s not the sheriff’s job to look after your dog if you have to leave your home, unfortunately. If your pet is alone, you’d have to make some kind of arrangement with a friend or neighbor to care for it when you’re away. As far as the other issues (taking your driver’s license and such), it sounds like you might want a lawyer who can assist with any issues you’re having, whether it’s that you need a defense or you feel that any of your rights were violated. Your lawyer will review all the facts and advise you of your options to move forward. Best of luck — I hope you’re feeling better soon.
Mario says
Hello I have a York is that was attacked by a husky and the neighboor states that their dog was not outside,(first lie they told the police) I gathered some evidence from neighbors surveillance camera and it shows the dog running around the neighborhood but it does not show when my dog was attacked, we send them to court but they want to go on trial. Do we have any chances to win the case ? My kids saw my little dog wounded on the floor and they were crying really bad we took the dog to the vet and lucky my Yorker made it .
Ian Pisarcik says
Mario,
It’s really difficult to know how strong your case is without having all the information. In general, it can be difficult to prove that your dog was attacked by another dog if there are no witnesses. You may want to meet with an attorney in your area to discuss your case. However, you should keep in mind that litigation can be expensive, and the damages awarded in dog attack cases are generally pretty low (usually the cost of medical care for the dog).
Flor says
My 9 month old bloodhound puppy was just killed with a shotgun. The right side of his body was covered in pellet wounds. We found his body in my neighbor’s back yard. No one saw it happen, but the neighbors claim the shotgun sound came from one of the other neighbor’s backyards. We filed a report with our local sheriffs department, but without concrete evidence our report will go nowhere.
Ian Pisarcik says
I’m so sorry this happened to you. I hope the police are able to conduct an investigation that will uncover some evidence that leads to the person who did this to your dog.
Flor Juarez says
What would happen if I could essentially have one of the neighbors confess to killing my baby boy? Could I get their confession on video without their permission?
Irene says
While walking my leashed choc/chessie, a neighbors small ankle biter came running across the street unrestrained and began biting my dog. I had warned these neighbors several times to please keep their dog tied up. My dog grabbed their dog, to protect herself and the guy came over and began violently kicking my dog on the head. I told him to stop kicking her, he shook a fist at me and told me to shut the f***up and kicked me in the arm. He finally got his dog, handed it to his wife and followed me halfway home threatening to shoot my dog and me. I told him to call the cops and he said that I would be going to jail and he was going to have my dog put down. Cops were called, report was made and we had no real serious visible injuries at that time. They did get a ticket for having an unleashed dog. I tried to get assault charges filed, but our police dept. likes to pick and choose cases. Anyway, 3 weeks ago, my dog started stopping suddenly in the middle of a walk, just staring at me like she is scared. At first I thought she was being stubborn, but didn’t force her. After the 3rd or 4th time I did research and discovered she may have had a concussion from being kicked. Dumb, stupid me never thought that could happen to dogs. The staring is her having a panic attack. Michigan has just become a state where it is a felony to abuse dogs, but I am wondering if I could take my dog to the vet and recoup those bills relating to this issue. She was just in to get her vaccinations 6 weeks prior and got a very healthy rating.
Ian Pisarcik says
The legality of recording someone’s conversation without their consent depends on (1) the state, and (2) the method of recording. For example, in Washington State, it is illegal to record a telephone call without the person’s consent. Arizona, on the other hand, allows you to record a telephone conversation so long as you are part of the conversation.
If you believe someone killed your baby boy, I would recommend contacting the police and letting the police handle the investigation. Alternatively, you might want to reach out to an attorney in your area to discuss what you can do to gather evidence.
Ian Pisarcik says
Irene,
If your neighbor caused your dog’s injury, you could sue him and recover damages to pay for your dog’s medical bills. However, there are a couple of things to keep in mind before doing so.
First, if there are no witnesses, it will likely be a challenge to prove that your neighbor kicked your dog.
Second, even if you can prove that your neighbor kicked your dog, it will be difficult to prove that the kick is what caused the concussion (especially since there was a lot of time between the assault and the diagnosis).
Third, lawsuits can be expensive. The filing costs alone are generally a couple hundred dollars. What’s more, it costs money to gather evidence and retain experts to testify as to the cause of the concussion.
If you feel strongly about pursuing a civil lawsuit, I would recommend exploring the possibility of bringing the suit in small claims court where the costs will be significantly less.
Sierra says
We have a 14 week Cane Corso that we took to his 2d puppy pre-school class at a local WA state breeder/trainer/boarder .last night. Part of the class includes 10 minutes of off-leash free time for the puppies to socialize. During that time a rather agrees I’ve Shephard kept biting at our corso’s docked ears that are just now fully healing. We kept pulling the Shephard off if he was biting the ears but it kept on. We did not say anything after class as we felt we need some privacy to discuss. It appears that there is possibly some cartilage as he ear was not standing as it was prior to the scuffle. I will be calling the trainer back this a.m. to advise and discuss recourse or what can be done to hold the dog owner liable. Others in class also had some issues with Shepard biting their pups. We are watching the ear closely to see if it has damage we can’t see and will be forwarding photos to the vet that performed the surgery to see if she can see something is not right.
We signed no contract and were only provided documentation with training expectations and policies of trainer.
What recourse do we have?
Angun says
So i have a small puppy, a mixed breed.
He’s still around 3-5 months.
He’s still not used for mannerism, like he poops everywhere and everytime, so my uncles and stuffs they just want to kill it and eat it, which is so heartbroken for me, so if they kill it when I’m not around, what should i do next?
quagmire in nm says
hello. I have a small, very friendly staffordshire/puggle mix named odin and he is my best friend, roommate, and favorite thing in the world. he had never hurt anything, even having on two occasions peed himself after investigating an injured bird and being hit by it flapping.
I live at the edge of town with an empty field behind me. the owner of the field is a 95 or so year old man, who likes to stroll around the field. my dogs are fenced in my yard, but they like to run alongside him my female barks while odin just hops on the fence for petting. the old man hates them and has attacked odin many times now. once, he sliced his leg to the bone. another time, he stabbed him through the fence with a stick, right in the throat almost killing him and leaving him with permanent thyroid injury problems. about a year ago, he killed my next door neighbors collie by dropping a big rock over the fence and breaking her back. this evening, I cought him trying to pull his leg off through the fence, and I just noticed multiple small contusions obviously from his stick, to odin’s chest. the police have been contacted for all but the slicing incident because I didn’t know that’s how he got hurt until a week or so after it, and the jab wounds I found tonight…but they won’t even go talk to the guy. I have yelled at him, threatened him, called him the worst I can think of, but that’s it. I can’t touch him or he will probably die and I’ll go to prison. I’ve tried cctv for the police but the back fence is too far to get a camera there, and besides, I don’t want to wait until I record him killing my dog for the police to do something. I can’t just move the fence because the old man deliberately comes to my fence and attacks him. .I am so scared and so angry and I feel like I have no option except to either let this monster kill my dog, in my yard, and get away with it, or push him over and hope he doesn’t die.
this last time, my friend and her adult daughter were here when it happened. still the police won’t even go talk to him. what should I do? I am going to call and report his injuries to non emergency dispatch in the morning and hope that, then, they will take me seriously, but I’m not holding my breath. what more can I do? I have to be able to protect my dog, but what can I do of I can’t touch the old man? I am 36 and outweigh him by at least 100 lbs. I will go straight to prison if I even attempt to restrain him and he pretends to…or does get hurt.
Katie says
My dogs were at a board and train for three weeks. Both came back extremely skinny and dehydrated. One of the dogs has now been hospitalized for a large stomach ulcer and the other has extreme exhaustion and will be seen by a vet tomorrow to confirm if anything further is happening. I’m told that the dog with the ulcer is being treated aggressively for a very large ulcer. I believe there was neglect on the part of the trainer to not recognize stress in the dogs and allowing them to get this skinny without concern.
Ian Pisarcik says
Katie,
A personal injury lawsuit based on negligence will require you to prove that a “reasonable person” would have noticed that the dogs were sick and needed medical attention. Without more information, it’s difficult for me to tell whether this is true or not. If you wish to pursue this claim, I would recommend meeting with an attorney in your area. Keep in mind that these cases tend to be expensive to litigate (given the need for expert witnesses) and damages tend to be relatively small (usually limited to the medical expenses for the treatment).
best cbd oil for dogs says
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Ian Pisarcik says
I’m glad you found the information helpful!
Naysa Aguirre says
My dog was attacked by 2 pit-bulls and was killed on on November 2, 2020 around 3 in the morning. My 9 year old brother and I found my dog in my backyard with his neck ripped open. I told my neighbors about what happened and they said they had seen two pit-bulls in their yard that night. My other neighbors had dogs too but they put them inside when they saw the pit-bulls. I called the Animal Service police and they went around to the other houses that the pit-bulls had been in and investigated. The Pit-bulls went through 4 different backyards and ended up in mine attacking my dog. This is not the first time these dogs have been in mine or other peoples backyards. My mother got off work at 4 in the morning and said she heard a man calling his dogs, but she thought it was our friend next door calling his German Sheppard. The police was finished taking pictures and notes and told me they would keep me updated and let me know what was going to happen with the pit-bulls. The next day I got a call and the police said they can not do anything about the pit-bulls because no one saw the attack. They also said they couldn’t take the pit-bulls away because I had no proof they did it, but my dog was ripped open in my backyard. Is that not enough proof!!! So now since the police is not going to do anything about removing the pit-bulls from my neighborhood I am going to spread awareness and do everything I can to get those dogs out. That could have been my 3 year old sister getting attacked. Honestly, I don’t feel safe in my own backyard, and I am scared of someone or another animal getting hurt.
Zoe Davis says
On March 6, 2020 – I emailed management of my apartment with several concerns, one expressively pertaining to the mold in my unit. As I addressed this concern in my email – I stated the following,
“IF you decide to take responsibility for the mold problem at hand – please give notice enough for us to vacate the unit so that we are not placed in the atmosphere of toxic chemicals. If fumes will be present for longer than 8 hours, (and therefore hazardous to our health) please make accommodations in regards to our housing options. Thank you in advance.”
I did not receive any response to this email.
On this day, March 6, 2020, at approximately 5:51 pm – I received a missed call and then voicemail from manager Scott Sharr, to return his phone call. I returned his phone call in anticipation of a response to my email. Instead, Sharr informed me that their maintenance man had entered the apartment unit – without prior permission – to “treat the mold” and my family’s pet companion, Noah, “escaped.” He continued his statement by saying that Noah was chased after and then ultimately hit by a car. My husband and I were minutes away from the complex and rushed home. When we made it, our companion dog was laid in their chair, in a t-shirt with blood on it. He was unresponsive.
I feel as though the property managers feel completely alleviated from responsibility of the death of our pet, and as a result of their negligence and disregard for us as residents, my family (husband and three children) and extended family (mother in law, father in law, and brother in law) are still grieving the loss of a what we considered a family member at the expense of Budget Suites, nearly nine months later. Scott Sharr verbally said that they (Budget Suites) have the right to enter our unit whenever they desire. I asked him to provide me with the policy on paper as proof and his only response was that he would find it. However, this is not the policy that we signed and have initials on. Further than that, we asked to see the footage from their cameras to verify the account of what happened to Noah and were instantly denied. We were told it would need to be requested by the manager himself.
My children are in emotional distress and hurting severely; showing extreme signs of post-traumatic stress and grief. As homeschooled children, Noah was a part of their morning and daily routine. He was, in their eyes, their protector, their brother, their friend. They are now uncomfortable in the home that my husband and I have tried to provide for them, in tears even walking to the door to enter because they won’t hear Noah’s alerting bark. There was no excuse to enter into the apartment and per the email – I specifically stated a request to be notified.
These managers and this company have a comfortable attitude in neglecting their responsibilities for safe and sanitary conditions. I have reached out to the management and even corporate office several times and all they want to offer is a refusal to acknowledge their negligence. Though we are grieving severely at the loss of our companion Noah, we want to make sure no other family suffers what we feel at this moment. No other family should have to endure what we are enduring! I am looking toward the next steps that will highly maximize the responsibility that is needed on behalf of this company and these managers.
Wooswag says
Pam Thomas
California: I moved into a house that i am currently renting and from day one its been hell. I own 3 emotional support animals who love to go out and play in the backyard. they also use the restroom out there in the mornings and evening time. The owner and her wife live in the garage that they converted into their home. Well the wife does not work and she has several plants that she apparently loves and she is constantly in the backyard watering the grass and her plants. Well one morning I noticed one of my pups eating a white substance that was intentionally placed on 2 pieces of poop that were left in the dirt and she was eating it. a couple of days later she became very ill and i ended up having to take her to the hospital. I took the poop with the substance that was placed on it to be examined. I also opened a case with poisen control. about a week later my other pup became very sick to point he was unable to walk and focus. i ended up taking him to the emergency. on top of that i noticed the landlord and his wilfe again in the backyard pounding somethng into the ground so i went out to see what was going on. I asked them what they were doing and they put up a wire fence to block my pups from having full access to the backyard because the wife claims i didnt pick up their droppings. Not true at all. We got into a verbal altercation and she admitted she purposely placed lawn fertilizer on their poop. she even named the type of fertilizer she used. on the caution label it clearly stated keep away from kids and pets because it can be harmful if injested. I was livid and could not believe how someone would go to the lengths of hurting or possibly killing someones dog over poop. Getting to the point, is it against the law to intentionally harm a pet?
Misty crull says
Our 7 year old jack russel/ Pomeranian mix 4lb baby was out on her lead when a group of dogs came into our yard and killed her. What can I do about this the grief is excruciating but I want justice for cobalt
Ian Pisarcik says
I’m so sorry this happened to you. You can certainly file a civil lawsuit against the owner of the group of dogs. Unfortunately, the damages for the loss of a beloved pet are limited to the “fair market value” of the pet in Indiana. For this reason, it may be more cost effective to file your lawsuit in small claims court.
Stephanie says
Hello,
I hope your having a wonderful day but I need your help
On the 24 of December my dog went missing.
My father came home from work and left the front gate open accidentally to park his truck. My dog went roaming around and went missing. But I find it hard to believe he walked away so far. There is a hair salon in front of my house which people go to what if someone went there and picked up my dog. My dog at the time did not have his colar on because we showered him. When I got home from work around 4:30pm, I received the news. My dog had been missing sense 1pm. I desperately went outside
And search for my dog alone, while my family was searching for him. I was searching alone, a group of dogs came at me and bite my left leg. I didn’t think much of it I just wanted my dog back. On the 25 of December I and my brother woke up in the morning and searched again through the desert to find his dead body, thinking coyote/dog killed him, he was chihuahua mix. Of course he was easy to be killed. (On that same day (25) in the morning my family and I put up posters of him missing and reward papers with his image and phone number around my neighborhood/front store) -keep that in mind- So I didn’t celebrate Christmas he was 11 years old I had him sense 2010. On the 26 my parents went to go look for my dog but we started seeing that the papers with my missing dog were torn apart and ripped off the pole and one by the bus station, we didn’t think much of it. We simply thought that it wasn’t allowed to put any note or paper. So on the 27 in the morning I received a message it was a young guy saying he saw my dog because I posted my missing dog on Facebook on the (24). He saw my dog on the 25 in front of his sisters neighbors house, (in the fence). He told me exactly where was his sisters house and my parents went, I stayed home and informed my parents about the messages, my parents looked and no sign of my dog in a fence. Until my parents saw two older guys drinking. My parents asked them if they have seen a little dog, one guy replied “no” but his friend was unsure. My mom saw something suspicious and asked again the guy who said “no”began to panic. That’s when my mom knew something was up. The guy eventually said “yes”, and that he was dead, he buried my dog in the desert because three dogs attacked my dog. My mom asked if he can take her to we’re he buried him. The guy said “no” My mom was desperate and told him if he didn’t she was going to call the police. The guy panicked and took my parents, when they got there my parents pulled out a black bag and it was confirmed my dog was there. My mom crying/shaking pulled my dead dog and tucked him into her sweater all beaten up with bites and blood everywhere. My mom and dad left the area with my dead dog in there arms and no further questions to the guy…. ITS THE WORST FEELING EVER I DONT UNDERSTAND I want justice for my baby I can’t live knowing there’s no justice for him. So currently I’m trying to get evidence and facts that they kept him when we already posted pictures around his home and the whole neighborhood with a reward of $200 he explained that my dog escaped from there home and bigger dogs attacked him. But I’m sad why didn’t he called we left a phone number on the paper I can’t believe he did not see the missing reward paper on the poles and front store, now I want to check the store camera to see who ripped the papers I want to know if it was him before my dogs death because the guy who messaged me said he saw my dog in there fence on the 25 thats my first witness so my dog was alive in there fence on the 25 and the three dogs I want the owners of the dogs to pay. I just want justice for my baby, my family and I are not doing well at all i can’t rest knowing my baby died scared and alone. Who can I report this too?, from where do I start? I don’t want nobody else to go through what me and my family went through never in a million years I would think this would happen…..now I’m at home thinking my baby is here sometimes listening to his footsteps when he actually isn’t there…
Melissa Gold says
Hello, Stephanie. First, I am so sorry for your loss. I know it’s devastating to lose a beloved pet and I’m sorry that happened to you and your family.
There could be a few legal avenues here. One is that if someone purposely killed your dog, that’s a crime in California. You should report it to the police and let them follow up and potentially bring animal abuse charges against anyone involved. Second is that yes, you could sue for negligent loss of property for the death of your dog. The lawsuit would be for the cost of the dog, which can be difficult to determine.
A court will usually consider 3 factors in determining the cost of the loss of a pet: (1) Fair market value, which is what the dog would be “worth” if it were sold (taking into account things like age, breed, health, pedigree, etc.); (2) Replacement cost, if you were to purchase a similar dog and include training and other expenses; and (3) Special economic value, which would include costs if your dog was a prize-winning show dog, for example, and not just an “ordinary” pet. California courts do allow punitive damages (damages for punishment) in cases when an animal is injured or killed by willful conduct or gross negligence.
It sounds as though if you are considering pursuing legal action, you should consult a California lawyer who can best advise on the facts of the case. Again, I am so sorry for your loss.
John Rivas says
My dog was killed on my porch by another dog that previously attacked her. We didn’t report the initial attack in our ignorance, and now she died after the second attack. During the second attack the owner of those dogs who knew his dogs attacked before just stood on his drive way and watched his dogs chase my dog down. Can he be persecuted criminally for animal cruelty?
Melody Parker says
My two cats were killed by my neighbor’s dog. I rent a house that is completely “fenced” in. Unfortunately the fence is old and needs to be replaced in sections. I have told the owner/leasing company multiple times and they have not been very good about trying to fix it. On December 3rd, the next dog broke through the fence. There was a worker here and I believe he may have thought the dog was mine and locked him in my house. When I got home I found the dog in my house, and my two cats dead. I have been very understanding about the unfortunate events that took place and have only asked for the cost of cremation. The leasing company has ignored all my emails, and in all actuality, I’m not sure who is at fault, the owner, or the next door neighbor. I am devastated at losing both my companions and am now not only sad, but angry that neither party has responded to me. Who do I have a case against?
Sylvain Daly says
I once shot and killed a dog that aggressively came at me… The owned was very angry and he yelled at me then tried to hit me, so I pointed the gun at him, and he backed off… We then went our separately ways.
LG says
This morning my neighbor shot and killed my dog when my dog wandered into his yard. I can’t find anything saying it’s legal for him to have shot him. He hasn’t told us that he killed him but our security camera caught the gunshots and a dog crying and now my dog has been missing all day so I know it was him. What can I do if he probably already buried him and hasn’t confessed.
Ian Pisarcik says
I’m so sorry this happened to you. The only legal justification for shooting a dog is self defense.
Your neighbor may faces potential imprisonment under New York’s animal cruelty statutes. In addiction, you can file a civil suit against your neighbor to recover damages. I would recommend filing a police report and contacting a lawyer. Be sure to keep a copy of the security footage (and any other evidence) to share with the police and your attorney.
Ian Pisarcik says
Thank you for your comment.
It’s always best to avoid harming pets if possible. Unfortunately, sometimes it may be necessary if you are attacked and fear for your life.
Los Angeles says
To set up the story, I’ll make known that we live in a townhouse with a communal walking area in front of our house. The afternoon of Jan 20th, my mother leashed up our dog (12 pound terrier mix) to take him for a walk. As she opened the door, our dog walked outside and onto the front steps of our home. Before she walked out, she turned to grab a doggie waste bag, while still holding onto the dog leash. It was at that moment that the neighbors dog (100+ pound dog) came out with the neighbor and an altercation occurred between the two dogs which resulted in my having to pry open our neighbors dog in order to grab mine from him. This resulted in heavy injury and ultimate passing of my dog.
When we spoke to each other they accused us of negligence because they say my mom could have held my dog tighter which in my rebuttal I said, the same could be said of their dog since the neighbor said they saw my dog first.
My question is: should I accept their offer to pay half of the veterinarian expenses ($2500 total bill)
I am obviously not in the right mind set to think logically as this was a tremendous loss, as we’ve had him for 14 years.
Thank you.
Sam says
This story is actually a little different.
I was driving through my development and I live in a dead end cul-de-sac. About 20 feet or so from my driveway (which is a HARD left turn to get into) a younger girl (I’d estimate around 15-16yrs.) was on the phone during nighttime and from what I could see walking a big dog on a leash. Well, as I drove past her actually in the middle of the street to give extra room, not fully in the right hand lane, getting ready to turn into my driveway, I hear a scream which caught my attention and made me look in my mirrors and I saw her bolt across the street into her cul-de-sac and I immediately stopped and got out. I did feel a little bump, but it literally felt like a small tree branch or little rock so I didn’t think anything of it. I walked around the back of my car and saw a tiny dog off leash laying there. It was not dead, it stood up on it’s own right after but it’s back legs were a little messed up. It laid back down and the mother came out and picked the dog up and they got into their car and sped away.
The dog was not on a leash and the girl was on the phone not really paying attention until it was too late, and I didn’t see the little dog at all. Not even in the slightest. I feel absolutely terrible and luckily a neighbor came out within 1-2 minutes and was talking with me and he even said it was an accident and “there was nothing I could have done” especially since it was dark, dog not on leash, didn’t see the tiny dog (Probably 5lbs).
I am concerned that they will try to fault me or sue me, especially because one of their friends, another neighbor, came out 5 minutes after it happened, and automatically said (You must have been speeding pretty fast) like she just automatically assumed it was my fault and thus, feel like she will plant this seed in the families head that I was speeding or whatever else. How fast do they think I could have been going with my driveway 20 feet away with a hard left turn.
ayudaporfas says
un hombre amenaza con matar a mi perrita,el hombre siempre esta borracho y pasa a cada rato por nuestra casa y la perrita duerme afuera,si la mata puedo denunciarlo?
Siempre trae un machete o palos con eso hace como si le fuera a pegar y nos da miedo que la mate
HeLp
Melissa Gold says
Lamento mucho saber que está pasando por esta situación. Matar a un animal es un crimen. Su comportamiento también podría considerarse una amenaza para usted si cree que su perro está en peligro. Debería llamar a la policía local y averiguar qué pueden hacer para ayudar. Esta persona no debería andar por ahí borracha y con armas potencialmente mortales. El departamento de policía puede hacer un seguimiento con él y determinar cuál es el mejor curso de acción. ¡Manténgase a salvo!
MAW says
Help. My dog was just killed yesterday. He was a 8lbs Yorkie and the dog who attack my dog was a big dog. He didn’t survive. The dog owner would not compensate me because he said he doesn’t have money. I spent so much money and energy to bring my dog here in Hawaii and this happened. It’s really sad.
So this is what happened. So it happened outside the dog park. Me and the dog sitter were talking ( by the way the big dog was with the dog sitter not with the owner ) and then the big dog just attacked my little dog. It happened so fast. The tricky part is they were both on the leash when it happened.
What should I do? Can I sue the owner and maybe put down the big dog?
Ian Pisarcik says
I’m so sorry this happened to you.
In Hawaii, you have two theories of liability that you can use to recover damages:
You can file your lawsuit using the dog-bite statute if you can prove that the dog bit someone previously and the owner knew about the bite.
You can file your lawsuit under the theory of negligence if you can prove that the owner acted carelessly (for example, failing to restrain their dog).
In either case, you will be limited to recovering the “fair market value” of your dog. For this reason, it may be wise to file your lawsuit in small claims court.
Susan says
I found your website trying to find someone to help our family. Our 11 year old baby girl Spectra was killed by her regular vet, by administering vaccines after we specially instructed them not to. We had made an appointment to get Spectra a blood test to test her enzymes in her liver because she was taking medications for valley fever. Her immune system was already busy fighting off this infection, and the vaccines were given without our permission and against our direct instructions. Spectra got really sick and we took her back to the vet to get their help and they refused to help her. We had to take her to an emergency animal hospital where they tried to save her life. We spent over $4000.00 doing everything we could to save her, but she slipped into a coma because her white blood count was so high from trying to fight off the vaccines with the valley fever that it was just too much for her. Banfield hospital staff was told and instructed not to give vaccines, but they did anyway, which should be malicious intent to cause harm. My family is heartbroken and is suffering mentally, emotionally, and financially due to this act of that vet. Our poor baby suffered before she passed, and I just cannot believe this has happened. Now Banfield has removed Spectra’s medical records so I cannot see them online on my account on their website any more. This tells me they are going to fraudulently add things to her records to avoid blame. I cannot find an attorney to help us, can you please help? Our baby didn’t deserve this! They need to be punished and fired!
Anonymous99 says
Yesterday my small dog(less than 20lbs) was coming up the hill in our back yard. The neighbor had his adult son over who brought a big and nasty dog who they knew was aggressive. He let the dog out without a leash and like any dog mine barked just ONCE, as he does at any passerby, and their dog ran over into our yard and killed him. I know this might be an old forum of sorts but I’d like to know how I can pursue reparation for what their ignorance and negligence has taken from my family.
Ian Pisarcik says
I’m sorry this happened to your dog.
Connecticut’s dog bite statute (CGS 22-357) makes a dog’s owner or keeper liable for injuries caused by the dog to someone else’s person or property (including their pet). This is a strict liability statute – in other words, it does not require the victim to prove that the dog’s owner or keeper (1) knew that the dog was vicious or (2) was otherwise negligent.
I would recommend filing a lawsuit against the owner of the dog under Connecticut’s dog bite statute. Because the damages available are typically limited to the fair market value of your dog, it might not be cost effective to hire an attorney. Instead, you may want to consider filing your claim in small claims court.
Alondra Sterling says
On May 11th 2021 my dog took his last breath at 6am, the vet took a look at him and she said she had high suspicions that he was poisoned when we took him in to her after he had passed. It has destroyed me and my family and would like to know if there is anything that we can do. The neighbors that live in my parents basement of a home they rent had previously made threats to hurt the dogs. This was mentioned to the landlord but he basically brushed it off and said that we shouldn’t go around accusing people. These people had previously kicked one of the other dogs in the stomach and animal and police were called. We have a video of that night when we asked them and one of the persons that most likely did it said that he had bit her… we asked for proof but also said that was impossible because there is a fence dividing the yard just so the dogs don’t go near them. I am 5’7″ so this fence reach’s up to my thighs and the dog that was killed was maltipoo. We searched the yard and found the poison near a fence post along with cooking grease that smelled like chicken or beef. Please I need to know if there is anyway of suing them and making them pay for what they did to my poor fur baby.
Jayson says
My neighbors ordered a pizza and the delivery driver pulled into our driveway assuming it was the address for delivery. The driver ran over our cat then backed out and proceeded to our neighbors driveway. The driver then left as if nothing happened. I called the pizza company who apologized yet said there was nothing they could do but the driver was sorry. Am I able to sue for negligence.
Ian Pisarcik says
I’m sorry this happened to you.
You can sue the driver for negligence, but you would need to prove that the driver acted carelessly. That may be difficult to prove, as the driver could argue, for example, that the cat darted in front of his car.
Keep in mind that if you decide to sue for negligence, courts typically only allow plaintiffs to recover the fair market value of their pet (i.e., the amount of money it would cost to buy a similar pet in the open market).
Rachel says
Hi, my name is Rachel Kendall and I’m wondering where I might be able to go with what happened to my dog on May 26th, 2021. See below…
To Whom it May Concern,
My name is Rachel Kendall and I live at **** Meadow Dr, New Meadows ID 83654. On May 26th, 2021 around 615 p.m., a driver of UPS drove past into my driveway, delivered a package at my residence with two known dogs on property. Driver was aware that dogs and children live at my residence. Left package and continued to deliver other packages down a small country road in New Meadows, Idaho. Once the driver delivered to other addresses he turned around and came back towards my residence with known dogs and children. This driver did not slow down, knowing children and dogs lived here. My elderly dog, 10 years old, was hit and killed right in front of my residence. Driver got out, placed dog at side of road and called his supervisor. I have talked with drivers supervisor and nothing was resolved. Supervisor even went on to say that, if one of his dogs or kids were hit, “he would tell them not to go near the road.” This is a known by UPS, small country road that has many children, dogs, cattle, horses, etc. please have someone contact me immediately at 208-484-****. I have already spoken with Erin that supervises this direct area. When asked to speak with someone higher, Erin stated that Dax Wilkenson was on vacation and no other person was available. This needs to be resolved immediately.
Thank you,
Rachel Kendall
Ian Pisarcik says
I’m so sorry this happened to your dog.
In Idaho, you can receive the fair market value of your dog if you can prove that your dog was killed as a result of the UPS driver’s negligence. This may be difficult to prove if there are no witnesses or security footage. Nevertheless, you might consider filing a lawsuit in small claims court. The lawsuit would allege that the UPS driver was negligent (driving too fast, etc.) and that his negligence resulted in the death of your dog.
You can find more information about small claims court in Idaho here.
CB says
I had just finished walking my two dogs want a black dog for the corner apartment came after my two dogs I was able to lift up the smallest dog smy dog was on a leash which prevented her from running she was trapped against the fence with her leg in the attacking dogs mouth nd was attacking mouth, as a result from the attach my dogs ligament in her right knee is torn. I have reached out to the woman that owns the dog and she is refusing to make any payments towards the surgery of $3,000 because she is on government assistance and is not working I live in Utah what can I do
Tom l says
My neighbor shoots my daughter s service dog on my property renders her useless for a cerebral palsy service dog with the shoot she is timmied and she can not support her weight after being wounded and to replace I can not afford a German shepherd is what Nokia’s is I filed a report the day it took place were so I go from hear thanks and god bless #Justice for Nakota Charlie m LaHues service dog
Skybrain says
This is very sad but is also why we need government to regulate businesses. Without regulation there is very little consumer protection. But wealthy people don’t want to pay taxes and the middle class can’t afford more taxes.
Vanessa Atlatenco says
Hola Ian Pisarcik
Mi perrita se pasó a la casa de mi vecina y desde ese día no la hemos vuelto a ver. Lo supimos porque desde el momento que se perdió la comenzamos a buscar y cuando le preguntamos dijo que si había visto en su casa, pero luego la perdió de vista, y no se tomó el tiempo para avisar :(. Sospechamos que le hizo algo
¿Qué puedo hacer?
Ademas de eso, mi vecina usa nuestra barda como su propiedad y se está filtrando mucha agua, ni por eso tuvo consideración 🙁
Melissa Gold says
Hola. Lamento escuchar que su perro se perdió y espero que a estas alturas ya haya regresado a casa.
Desafortunadamente, no hay mucho que pueda hacer excepto seguir buscándolo. Aunque su vecino haya visto a su perro, no es su deber informarle o estar al pendiente del perro.
Si tiene evidencia de que el vecino le hizo algo a su perro (no solo una corazonada, sino algo que realmente apunte a esa posibilidad), puede comunicarse con la policía. Pero a menos que exista evidencia específica que sugiera que el vecino hizo algo o está escondiendo a su perro, la policía no puede hacer mucho por usted.
No estoy seguro de a qué se refiere con que su vecino “usa” su cerca o con las fugas de agua. Parece que quizás lo mejor sería hablar con sus vecinos sobre cómo le gustaría manejar la línea de propiedad.
Mucha suerte y espero que su perro regrese a casa a salvo.
Kris says
Hello,
My husband and I received a call this morning that one of our dogs escaped the boarding facility that my dogs were staying at while my husband and I were on vacation. Our dog was hit by a car and killed instantly according to the boarding facility and the veterinary clinic we talked to. We don’t really know anything at this point because we are still out of town and trying to get back to get our other dogs out of the boarding facility. The kennel owner told us that our dog managed to escape through a gate.
But that’s all we know.
We are so confused and so upset we aren’t sure if there is anything we can or should do at this point. Is this an appropriate means to take legal action? We had had issues with them earlier in the week not listening to feeding instructions that I had sent them(written out and very specific). We just don’t know what we should do.
Please help.
AnonymousinCT says
Our 12 yr old 90 lb Yellow Labrador Retriever was killed by a kid speeding on a motorcycle on April 27, 2021. Unfortunately, our dog wasn’t on a leash and we know in the State of CT, there is a leash law. She had just ran down the driveway to go to the bathroom when I heard the bikes out on the main road. We live on a side street which is loaded with dogs & kids. The bikes were getting considerably louder so I knew they turned onto our road. I ran down our driveway (I had just gotten home from work and let the dog out) to try to get the bikes to slow down but it was too late. Our dog turned when she heard me scream and took a step into the road from the side and was broadsided by one of the bikes that was unable to stop in time. The kid on 1 of the bikes was able to stop but the other was not. He hit our dog so hard that he ended up driving over her breaking her spine. Her back foot got caught up in his bike and she was sent spinning in a spiral direction into the middle of the road. The kid ended up falling off the motorcycle and landed in our front yard. I immediately ran over to our dog who I thought at the time was dazed from being hit not realizing the extent of her injuries. I was in total shock and it took me a bit to realize that she was in fact dying. Her body was completely twisted as she laid in the road. Her back half was upright and her front half was on her side. I cried hysterically and hugged her and laid with her until she passed. The only saving grace was that she didn’t suffer long as she went very quickly. I then asked the kids what they were thinking driving that fast on a residential street? The kid that hit and killed our dog replied that it was a straightaway so they opened up their bikes. I freaked out and said it’s not a straightaway, it’s a residential neighborhood with pets and kids. There’s a 5 year old little boy that lives next door to us. After all was said and done, the kid ended up being charged by the police with misuse of marker plates, driving unreasonably fast, no license (he didn’t have a motorcycle endorsement on his drivers license) and driving an unregistered vehicle (the bike wasn’t even registered). We lost our beautiful girl because this kid consciously decided to get on an unregistered motorcycle with no license or insurance and drive out of his town into our town (a 20 min ride from his house) not thinking about any consequences should something happen…….and it did!! To make matters worse, because of the leash law here in CT, we are now being sued by the kid for his injuries. Everything has been turned over to our homeowners insurance but we’re wondering if we have any chance of counter suing for damages, pain & suffering. I saw the entire accident and am completely traumatized by it. I cry every day and miss her more than I can say. She was my whole world. She was not only our dog, she was our daughter. We got our dog when she was only 5 weeks old, she was 12 yrs old when she died. Again, we are well aware of the leash law here in CT but there’s also laws that say you have to have a drivers license and register your vehicle. The kids criminal charges are still pending as he goes back to court on Aug 3rd and we’re really hoping his charges don’t get dropped. We’re afraid if they do, we won’t have any recourse for our insurance company to deny his claim. Are we able to countersue?
ML says
I also want to add that my neighbor has admitted feeding chicken bones to my dog as well after I told him he was taken to the ER for that. Is that enough evidence to sue? I have no video proof, only verbal.
ML says
Hello,
I had a neighbor who moved into the backhouse of our property around August of 2020. We have a small dog who goes to our shared backyard to sunbathe everyday. Around September I started noticing my neighbor feeding my dog (who’s now turning 7 years old) chicken bones. I warned him not to feed my dog things without permission as it can cause serious illnesses considering he knows nothing about my dogs diet and bones are not good for dog’s stomachs and teeth regardless. He knew of the warning and acknowledged it, but still fed my dog food behind my back regardless of my multiple warnings. On December 25, 2020 I woke up to throw up in my room and my dog quivering and barely moving. I took him to the emergency room and they vet did an x-ray and told me there were undigested chicken bones in his stomach. He did an injection that forced my dog to vomit it all out. The charge was pretty hefty. I told my neighbor he needs to take full responsibility of this charge and he continues to disregard it and saying he cannot afford that charge.
I have had my dog for 6 years (adopted at 1 years old) and have all of his medical history that shows proof of him being healthy with no preliminary illnesses up until taking him to the ER. I have no video evidence of my neighbor feeding my dog but I have verbal evidence of my neighbor admitting to feeding my dog chicken bones although he was aware of my warning. Am I able to sue him for purposely injuring my dog?
22Annonymous says
I would like to receive any advice, last Saturday July 24, 2021 in Yucaipa, California; My neighbor shot my dog and killed him. My three dogs (two huskies/one pitbull) somehow managed to get out and only killed our pitbull. He previously threatened to shoot him if he saw our dog out again. Not only that but our neighbor also threatened my sister saying “she’s lucky he doesn’t shoot her too.” Police told us that they can only submit the report to the DA and hope he gets arrested. We don’t know what else to do, our pitbull was only 2yrs old.
Ian Pisarcik says
I’m sorry this happened to you. California Penal Code Section 597 makes it a crime to kill an animal. In addition, you can file a civil lawsuit against your neighbor for damages. I California, you an recoup the “fair market value” of your dog. Often, it’s difficult to find a lawyer to take on these types of cases because the damages are relatively small. You may, however, have luck finding a law student or a nonprofit organization to take on your case. Consider contacting the California State Bar to see if they can recommend an attorney.
Jessica says
Hello. My name is Jessica and last night, my neighbors unleashed dogs (3 pitbulls) ran into my backyard where my dog (10 year old) was leashes. Their dogs attacked my dog and my dog attacked back. The owner of the dogs then stomped on my dog 3 times. I’m in ny. We plan to sue him but was wondering what the process would be like? His dogs were unleashed. Dogs and human trespass. His dogs and the human attack my dog.
Jessica says
Sorry, we’re from New York.
Chris Chan says
I though it was your cousins dog? ILJ
Haley K says
How would this work if a grooming company killed my dog. We are at the vet and they confirmed my dog was strangled to death. The manager of the company refuses to show any video footage from the store while it happened and is extremely rude to me.
Grief -Stricken says
Looking for advice please. I found someone who would adopt my 2 sugar gliders. She was recommended and we talked for an hour. A week ago today the person adopting the animals pick them up. Then this turned into a nightmare which has put me through so much pain. I don’t know what happened to them. I asked how they were doing and the woman lied to me and told me she had a cage but she didn’t. She said she took them to the vet but can’t produce a vet bill. I asked her why she took them to the vet when she got them they were alive and well. There wasn’t nothing wrong with them. Since day one I have been begging her for 5 days to take a pictures of my animals and of the vet bill and send them via text and still no reply. I don’t want to sue her for money because that’s not going to bring them back. I just want to know the truth. On what happened to my animals. I had to ask the person who recommended her, to find out what happened to them. I trusted this woman who adopted them. The woman got back to her and said that they were dead. She told that person but didn’t tell me?
What can I do? This person should not get away with killing my animals. I even went as far as calling all vets within a hundred miles in her county. All’s said the same thing, nobody bought any sugar gliders in but yet she tells her friends that she took them to the vet but can’t show me the vet bill. In fact she hasn’t showed anybody the vet bill. So I am grief-stricken because I do not know what happened to my animals. I believe she has blocked me and she did not give me her address. But I have a phone number. What can I do to find out what happened to them? I believe she is being deceitful to me and her friends trying to cover up her negligence. I love my animals! I truly believe they were going to a good home. I want to thank the person, in advance, who would help me in solving this. I live in stafford, va she lives gloucester, va…If you need any other information feel free to ask… thank you
Austin says
If your dog, child, or livestock walked off of your property onto a public owned highway and was hit by a moving vehicle, then it is and should be 100%your fault. I’m sorry this happened. In the state of NC if your animal walked out in front of a vehicle andthe driver was injured because of it, you would be responsible for their bills. If you own an animal. It is your responsibility to control them.
Gee says
Hello I live in Ohio on aug 24 the cops came in my house and murdered my dog while he ran away they said he was aggressive but they shot him while he ran to my bedroom with his back towards them (I have all the photos to prove the way they killed him while he ran)! What or who can I call to get the bodycam and the officer who shot and killed my pet so I can sue the police officer?? My dog was my baby he was my child and they took that from me with no remorse
Kenny says
2 sundays ago, 2 pitbulls got out of their yard and almost killed a small dogs walking behind our house, a lady ran out and stopped the dog from getting killed and was bit in the process, the dogs were to quarantine for 10 days. Last Sunday, exactly 1 week later the same 2 pitbulls tore off a section of my fence, got into my yard and killed 2 of my small dogs. They were 6 years old and we had them since they were born. We already spent $200 to repair sections of the fence they messed up trying to get in but that’s nothing compared to the death of 2 of our family members. What can we do?
Ealdenb says
Does a landlord hold any liability in CA if the tenants dog kills another dog? Can the suing party charge the landlord for negligence or does the dog owner take full liability? Thank you!
Solente Diedericks says
I want to know what i can do about the man who ran my dog over . I did not se my dog get out of the yard and i went in to check the washing machine and when i got back outside the left my dog infront of the gate and left his number and name . He did not even say sorry or show any amotions . Can i sue ?
Brandon says
My neighbor shot my Siberian husky a week ago for running thru his yard… Several months ago he chased my dog down the street with a pistol into my yard, and threatened my 3 kids that next time he sees there dog he will kill it . My dog normally chained up in our yard on a trolly was only two years old, he occasionally gets loose due to his loose collar in the middle of putting up a fence in yard. He apparently got loose the other morning, according to police report, the lady two houses down seen him in her yard, called her husband home from work , when he git there he pulled out his 9 mm and shit at my dog 3 times hitting him once, killing him .. police brought my dog home and handed him to my wife while I was at work, and said sorry . Sounds malicious to me and telling them three kids and burying that dog, hardest thing I’ve ever had to do…
Ally says
It sounds like your dog getting hit was your fault for not having him properly contained. I’m sorry for your loss, but this was no fault of the UPS driver. If you had properly contained your dog in a fence, house, or on leash, this could have been prevented. He should have never been in the street to begin with.
Michele says
Please Help!
My 2 huskies (11 months old) escaped our yard Friday were gone less then a hr and I was tracking them the whole time. They made their way onto a field that had sheep in a enclosure. I received a call from the people that they had my dogs she claimed my dogs were in the enclosure with the sheep but none of her sheep were hurt when I asked if her animals were ok. I took my dogs straight to the vet to find out they shot them and the vet could not save them. How can I prove my dogs were not in the enclosure and not a threat.
My family was texting the woman’s cousin and we have screen shots of the story changing constantly. Would that proof hold in court or be considered here say? Please help me get justice for my babies.
Robert Locey says
Robert. Locey One afternoon me and Angel my dog for twelve years by my side boy do I miss him so much we were walking down the ditch. bank I had broken down after seeing my wife in hospital for a stroke so we were walking and Angel was thirsty so I tried finding a safe place to walk down and get him water instead the dirt bank gave and we both fell in needles to say I hit my head was bleeding a passer by saw us an called for help so help came they got us out so they said they would take good care of my Angel while I was in hospital well dog catcher ovious didn’t he got away didn’t find out till later when they found him dead then they called me to pick him up they had the Nerve to hand him to me in a trash bag so sad he still had his leash they lost him in around his neck Belen animal control they didn’t even care to take it off I guess so we both went home But before I stopped at mcDonalds for his last Dr pepper then you know the rest Boy Do I miss him so much he was my best frIend
Melissa Gold says
Hello, Robert. We’re so sorry for your loss and I thank you for sharing your story with our readers. I hope your wife recovers quickly, you’ve recovered from your injury, and that you can eventually feel at peace with Angel’s loss. My thoughts are with you; a dog is part of the family and their loss can be so difficult. Stay well.
Rosalba Acosta says
Hello, I need help. Last August 2021 my son came to visit me and brought his 6 year old lab mix with him. His name is Bullet. While playing in my back yard, a small poodle was taken out to pee on the other side of my backyard fence ,this dog was unleash, and he started to taunt bullet by running up and down the fence. Bullet made a hole under the fence and got to the other side and grabbed the poodle by the neck. The injuries cause the poodle to be put to sleep.
Now I have received a letter from a lawyer demanding for me to pay them the veterinary fees $675.84 and $10,000 to replace the poodle. I received this letter on Dec. 1st. 2021 and given 30 days to respond.
I have not been able to get legal help, can not afford $300.00 plus an hour..
What can I do? Isnt my son, the owner of bullet the one responsible?
Please help me.
Gizmo says
My dog Gizmo was killed by another dog in my condo complex. This happened three years ago. There were witnesses. Both dogs were on the leash. I was devastated by the event. Required psychiatric care for my overwhelming depression, as a result. And did not pursue any legal action at the time. Now that I have gotten better and can think clearer, I want to ask the owner to pay for me purchasing another dog. Is this something I should be hopeful about or has it been too long?
Tyler Reveire says
Hi my dog was Shot and killed by a neighbor a month ago . The Incident took place about 2:00 a.m. I work night shift so this is the normal time that my dogs go out to use the bathroom. I went in to use the bathroom and while doing so I heard a gun shot I immediately went outside to find my dog barley able to move as he hobbled to his cage where he then after a few minutes of fighting for his life took his last breaths. I called my neighbor and asked him if he killed my dog, and he stated that he had ” just killed a bear ” I told him that there was no bear and that it was my dog he stated again I thought it was a bear and then hung up no sorry, my bad I didn’t mean to anything. I had never been informed that my dog was wondering into their yard if so I would have most defiantly kept a better eye out. I called the police and when they went to question him he changed his story to he thought that he was shooting a cayote. My dog was a pit bull and about 70 pounds, but he was no where big enough to be even thought of as a bear, and further more its illegal to just shoot and kill any animal whether it be a bear cayote, and or a dog in the state of Florida with out it being viscous, and if my dog was viscous he would have then known that it was a dog. I really feel as though my dog was killed with malicious intent, My neighbor has a sensor that goes off when someone comes to his yard, so he claims that’s how he knew that the dog was in his yard, his yard also has built in lights that light up his whole entire outside area during the night and also at this time they still had their Christmas light adding additional light which just makes it so had for me to believe that my dog was mistaken for a bear. I am now starting the process of taking him to court, but I am unclear on what all I should factor into compensation. this dog really meant a lot to me I had taken good care of him with many vet visits, and hours and hours of time working and training him, people always gave praise on how well trained he was, and he could never be replaced. Please Help Me on my next steps to getting Justice for my dog. RIP Smokee
Kaleigh courson says
My dog ran out of my house and our neighbor across the street was walking his dog . His dog barked at mine and they started playing the guy wanted to stop that ended up tripping over his own dog and cut my dog’s throat and stabbed his side and kicked him in his genitals . His dog had no bite marks from mine neither did he. He claimed he was protecting his self and dog but he told us before next time our dog got out he would stab him he told that in front of my kids and this time he did all this in front of my daughter and her friend . Then after he realized he cut him and all that , he said next time he will be dead .