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Vermont Pet Owners Are Responsible For Attacks

Individuals must be held accountable for the actions of their animals. Many responsible pet owners take steps to ensure that their animals do not endanger the safety of those around them. When an individual fails to control their dog or other pet, however, the consequences can be devastating.

Victims of dog bites or other animal attacks may suffer scars, disfigurement, infections, mental distress and months, if not years, of recovery. An experienced attorney can investigate the facts behind any dog or animal attack and identify the responsible parties. This often involves seeking compensation under homeowners or renters policies.

Vermont Dog Bite Laws

Vermont dog owners have a duty to keep their dogs under control. A Vermont dog owner can be held liable for injuries caused by the dog when he or she is negligent in handling or ownership of the dog.

Vermont is sometimes referred to as a “one-bite” state because, as a general matter, a dog’s owner will be liable only if they knew or should have known the dog was dangerous or had a tendency toward dangerous behavior.

If you are attacked by a dog, it is important that you report the bite to the local police or animal control officer. This is important to ensure that the dog is up to date on vaccinations, and there is an official record/investigation of the attack and the dog’s aggressive behavior.

In addition, you should be sure to collect the name and address of the dog’s owner, the name of the dog, a description of the dog and the location of the attack. You should take photographs of your injury and any scarring resulting from the attack.

An experienced attorney can make sure to investigate the background of the dog and its owner and work to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve following a dog attack.

Defenses To Dog Bite Attacks And Other Animal Attacks

In limited circumstances, a dog owner may not be responsible for an attack by their dog. This is true in instances where an individual has provoked a dog to attack. Provocation includes hitting, poking, taunting or yelling at a dog. An experienced attorney can review your case to determine what, if any, possible defenses you should be aware of in pursuing your claim against a dog owner.

Other Animal Attacks

While most domesticated animal attacks are by dogs, attacks by other animals can also carry severe consequences. Individuals injured by snake attacks, cat attacks, horse attacks, livestock attacks or any other animal attacks also deserve compensation for the personal injuries they suffer as a result of such an attack.

If the animal’s owner is negligent in his or her handling or ownership of the animal, you may be entitled to compensation for the personal injuries you suffered. An experienced attorney can review the applicable regulations or statutes governing the ownership of a particular animal and advise you on your rights accordingly.

The attorneys at Donovan O'Connor & Dodig, LLP, are experienced in dog bites and animal attacks in Vermont. We have handled an extensive variety of dog bite and animal attack cases, ranging from minor injuries to permanent facial disfigurement. If you have been attacked by a dog or another animal, please call us to discuss your rights.

Contact Our Lawyers To Discuss Your Case

If you or a family member has been injured in a dog attack or another animal attack, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, physical pain and suffering, and any disability or disfigurement resulting from the attack.

Contact our office in southern Vermont to schedule an appointment with an attorney. You can reach us at 802-442-3233 or via email. There is no fee for your initial consultation.

All dog bite/animal attack cases are handled on a contingent fee basis — you will pay no attorneys’ fees unless we win compensation in your case.

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