Santa Ana, CA asked in Animal / Dog Law for California

Q: i am a pet sitter and i am being sued for the owner because her dog run away from my house, what can i do?

I have taken care of this dog for almost a year since he was a puppy, the owners are always happy with me and the pictures i sent to them, this last time while i was at work the dog run away, i don't understand how that happen, he was inside the house, now they are suing me for 6,500 and i think that is to much for a pug, they claim the dog cost 2500 when i remember in a conversation they told me they bought it for 300 in craigslist, also they are adding vaccines, food and suffering which takes the whole amount to 6,500, i don't know what to do, i don't mind paying for what is fair, i look online and the highest price for a pug is 700 but they are asking for way more than that, besides they sue me 10 after the dog got lost, what is the dog comes back? i would like to know what is according to the law what i should pay to the owner, thank you

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1 Lawyer Answer
Ali Shahrestani,
Ali Shahrestani,
Answered
  • New York, NY
  • Licensed in California

A: Their request amount sounds too high. You may be liable under negligence theory if not under contract theory. You can challenge the value of loss with evidence, including documentation you find from reputable sources and information they told you about the dog's purchase. More details are necessary to provide a professional analysis of your issue. The best first step is an Initial Consultation with an Attorney. You can read more about me, my credentials, awards, honors, testimonials, and media appearances/ publications on my law practice website. I practice law in CA, NY, MA, and DC in the following areas of law: Business & Contracts, Criminal Defense, Divorce & Child Custody, and Education Law. This answer does not constitute legal advice; make any predictions, guarantees, or warranties; or create any Attorney-Client relationship.

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