Seaside, CA asked in Animal / Dog Law for California

Q: While walking my protection trained GSD, people often touch the dog without asking. What are my rights in this case?

I don’t want people touching my dog without permission, and sometimes not at all. But people are quite often confrontational about their perceived “right” to touch my animal.

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2 Lawyer Answers
Thomas A. Grossman
Thomas A. Grossman
Answered
  • Palm Springs, CA
  • Licensed in California

A: Most people love dogs, so I am not surprised that they would want to pet your dog. And, most people will probably ask your permission to pet your dog. If people pet your dog without asking your permission, ask them politely not to pet your dog. I believe mot people will respect your wishes.

William John Light agrees with this answer

William John Light
William John Light
Answered
  • Animal & Dog Law Lawyer
  • Santa Ana, CA
  • Licensed in California

A: You have a right of self-defense, which doesn't seem to apply. An unconsented, offensive touching is a battery, so you could sue in Small Claims. That seems a bit overblown, to say the least. Seems like you could buy a no-touch vest and/or stay away from areas where you are having this problem.

https://www.chewy.com/dogline-unimax-multi-purpose-do-not/dp/160211?utm_source=google-product&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=hg&utm_content=Dogline&utm_term=&gclid=CjwKCAjw7IbaBRBqEiwA6AyZgtMa7VQuADIuSz7sT7di-5TOkcEWh7KYi606Z33RIDtIQviC9R8lxxoCBtYQAvD_BwE

https://www.chewy.com/dogline-unimax-multi-purpose-do-not/dp/160211?utm_source=google-product&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=hg&utm_content=Dogline&utm_term=&gclid=CjwKCAjw7IbaBRBqEiwA6AyZgtMa7VQuADIuSz7sT7di-5TOkcEWh7KYi606Z33RIDtIQviC9R8lxxoCBtYQAvD_BwE

https://www.etsy.com/listing/167352345/jacket-vest-for-dogs-working-on-issues?gpla=1&gao=1&&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=shopping_us_b-pet_supplies-pet_clothing_accessories_and_shoes-other&utm_custom1=f5419817-1880-40bc-b2d1-c93ea9a7b097&gclid=CjwKCAjw7IbaBRBqEiwA6AyZgk70jpac-DCe1P4uEFbCDPfmmfAR_4rn-Lx9JsSuch_ES7UIwn6p1hoCXi4QAvD_BwE

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