Dog attack recourse, need advice - Page 2

  
         It's a darn shame....poor pup....

This is why I have my wife carry mace and a walking stick.

in our county in Texas, rural, as a county resident, you can pay $50 and drop off strays at the local non-profit animal rescue (works w/ local vets and sheriffs dept). If they are told they are "animal vicious" they will destroy them. Just keep your fingers crossed they don't have a microchip.

BY all means seek legal recourse, even if you give them the chance first.An attorney can point out things for you, but most likely it will be small claims, without an attorney. Personal injury laws have time limits, best strategy is to get informed about the local laws, and take things one step at a time. When it comes down to actual court you CAN represent yourself, all an attorney does is tell a story, and attorney's are not allowed in small claims court anyway. Gather the evidence (prior police reports, animal control reports, vet bills etc) I do agree you should give them achance first, but you can fall back on their insurance as well. And there is such a thing as getting a judgement you cannot collect on, however, there are garnishment laws that you can use to get tax returns intercepted and get your money.

A human was also attacked in this incident and that changes everything.

Michele

Got another update, the pit that inflicted the damage on her and the puppy, who was deemed "vicious" by the city a month ago after a previous attack, IS going to be euthanized. The boxer, who ran out also but did not hurt anyone is under quarantine. The puppy's temporary cast comes off tomorrow and the vet will decide if they want to recast it or not, I'm thinking not as animal emergency did not find any breaks. It was done as a precaution (against stress fracture, maybe?). The owner's hand is of course hurting her. Everything is being documented. I'll let you guys know how it turns out.

A few things. Does AC have police powers or just AC powers? Have all pertinent paperwork; AC and police reports, if taken. Give owner first opportunity but DON'T rely on owner. Have pup's owner go down to District Court and speak with a "Commissioner" and that person will explain the LAW pertaining to the incident. Also, find out if there is like a Neighborhood Association and if so they will have the rules and policies. Each state, county, local etc. is different so check and verify. My thoughts are if this has happened before and DOCUMENTED it is now criminal. Restitution will now be for dog and owner.

Good luck to both pup and owner.