Hampton, VA asked in Animal / Dog Law for Virginia

Q: Dog off leash attacking and slowly killing cat in the cat owners yard. If owner kills dog will they be fined or charged?

Just want to know if it ever happens because I've been worried about a neighbor's dogs although killing the dog is only a very last resort(if legal) because I love animals and don't think any non-food animal should be killed but if it won't let go I don't want my cat to die

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1 Lawyer Answer
Matthew Lane Kreitzer
Matthew Lane Kreitzer
Answered
  • Winchester, VA
  • Licensed in Virginia

A: If you have real concerns regarding the safety of your animals and have prior incidents that show that your neighbor's dog is dangerous, there are other steps you should be taking prior to thinking about killing your neighbor's dog. You should contact the local authorities to discuss your concerns. You should also schedule a consultation with a local lawyer to fully understand how killing your neighbor's dog would adversely impact your chances of recovery.

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