Legal Question in Civil Litigation in New York
Death of Dog
I was training my papillon dog at a local training facility when another owners dog bit him. His injuries resulted in his death. The owner has paid the vet bills but I would like to send her a letter asking for reimbursment of the cost of the dog. I am looking for advice on what to include in the letter. Should it come from a lawyer if she willing paid the vet bill?
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Death of Dog
I'm sorry to hear about the death of your papillon. With regards to your letter, you should indicate the basis of liability (fault), document the cost of your dog, and make a demand for payment within a fixed time period (30 days). You could end the letter by stating that if the matter is not resolved to your satisfaction, you will retain legal counsel.
If you need further assistance, you may contact me via email.
Good luck!
Re: Death of Dog
A lawyer's letter can cut both ways;
it will make the communication more concise, but it can also cause a cooperative peron to refer the letter to their own attorney.
Were I you, I would raise the issue and what she says. If it turns out to be "no," by all means exercise your right to sue. Since all one can recover for the value of a pet is its personal property value, and the dog dies from the injuries, so long as you are able to prove the dog's value you are okay. You can sue in small claimsDistrict or Civil Court (Civil is in the City).
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