Warwick, RI asked in Animal / Dog Law for Rhode Island

Q: My pug scared at vet first appt snapped at her this time we went to vet my pug was scared bit her Can she sue me

Vet was aware he gets really scared still attempted a muzzle and throwing a blanket over his head when he bit her now says give him Valium and bring back she should have said this after first appt

Related Topics:
1 Lawyer Answer
Neville Bedford
Neville Bedford
Answered
  • PROVIDENCE, RI
  • Licensed in Rhode Island

A: It is a good sign that they are willing to see your pet again (with valium). They knew of the risk an were taking steps to prevent the bite when it happened. You can often avoid a lawsuit by discussing what damages the vet suffered and coming to some better alternative than spending time in court. In short, yes, the vet may sue you. This does not guarantee they will win. A judge will have to weigh all the facts and then decide. Consider apologizing and take extra precautions when your dog is scared because a subsequent bite to another person may result in strict liability to you(now that you know the dog's propensity to bite).

Justia Ask a Lawyer is a forum for consumers to get answers to basic legal questions. Any information sent through Justia Ask a Lawyer is not secure and is done so on a non-confidential basis only.

The use of this website to ask questions or receive answers does not create an attorney–client relationship between you and Justia, or between you and any attorney who receives your information or responds to your questions, nor is it intended to create such a relationship. Additionally, no responses on this forum constitute legal advice, which must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case. You should not act upon information provided in Justia Ask a Lawyer without seeking professional counsel from an attorney admitted or authorized to practice in your jurisdiction. Justia assumes no responsibility to any person who relies on information contained on or received through this site and disclaims all liability in respect to such information.

Justia cannot guarantee that the information on this website (including any legal information provided by an attorney through this service) is accurate, complete, or up-to-date. While we intend to make every attempt to keep the information on this site current, the owners of and contributors to this site make no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to from this site.