Legal Question in Civil Litigation in Pennsylvania

Lost someones pet

I, at times, sit for other peoples pets while they are out of town in my own home. I was contacted by a couple that asked me to watch their 5 dogs for them for about a week. I, agreed to do this for them and we agreed that I would be paid for doing so. while they were away, I was taking one of their dogs for his walk and he pulled hard on the leash and ran away. I looked for him all night and was unable to find him. The following day I contacted the dog pound and the Humane Society also I put an add in the lost and found section of the local newspaper. I also tried to contact the owners of the dog to let them know but, I was unable to contact them. They came home tonight, I explained to them what happened and offered to return their uncashed check to them. Understandably upset, they informed me that they were going to sue me and want me to give them $1,000. I did everything in my power to find their dog and now I am scared. How much responsability do I have to them.

Thanking You

Jim


Asked on 1/16/02, 9:52 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Peter Gonzalez Sanchez-Medina, Gonzalez, Quesada, Lage, Crespo, Gomez & MachadoLLP

Re: Lost someones pet

Don't be so scared. Sometimes the bark is worse than the bite. What occurred was an accident that, in part, was caused by the dog, and not by you. Perhaps if the dog owners sue you, you can file a counterclaim for intentional infliction of emotional distress as a result of the outrageous emotional anguish you suffered when the dog ran away, all caused by the owners letting you take care of their pet. I'm not serious, but the foregoing serves to highlight the absurdity of litigation-hungry folks who forget that sometimes things happen, and no one is really to blame. If they make a formal demand or file suit, seek the advice of counsel. Perhaps they can assert a cause of action for the cost of the dog, and that's about it. There is no legally recognizable claim for loss of consortium, pain and suffering or loss wages associated with losing a dog. Good luck.

Read more
Answered on 1/17/02, 12:05 am


Related Questions & Answers

More General Civil Litigation questions and answers in Pennsylvania