Legal Question in Personal Injury in Louisiana

animal attack

a pit bull came into my back yard (gate was unlocked but not ajar) and attacked my two dogs, one had to be put down due to the severity of the injuries, the other was hospitalized for a week and a significant bill was acquired. The owners of the dog have made one payment only to the vet, but no further attempts to pay have been made. Of course, I will pay the bill if they do not, but can I sue them for the remainder of the bill? By the way, my dogs are/were chihuahua's.


Asked on 8/02/07, 5:50 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Adam Lambert The Law Office of Adam S. Lambert

Re: animal attack

Yes. Unlike many other states, Louisiana does not have any sort of "first bite free" rule. An owner of a dog is strictly liable for the damage caused by his dog. The owner is liable not only for your vet bills, but for the loss of your dog.

I would suggest taking the matter to Small Claims Court. Find a Justice of the Peace in your parish and file a claim. You will not need a lawyer to file there and you can file any claim up to $3,000.00.

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Answered on 8/03/07, 11:30 am


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