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Animal / Dog Law Questions & Answers
2 Answers | Asked in Animal / Dog Law and Personal Injury for Florida on
Q: A dog attacked my cat on my property. Now my cat is missing. What all can I do

My neighbors on the side of her dog viciously attacked my cat. I have video proof of the dog in the cat in the altercation. My neighbor behind me was the one that broke up the altercation. I confronted my neighbor on the side. Showed her video documentation that it was her dog that attacked my cat.... Read more »

Charles M.  Baron
Charles M. Baron
answered on May 17, 2023

The dog owner is legally responsible for the vet bills, which you should first present to the owner to try to amicably resolve the matter, and if not settled, you can sue the owner in small claims court, assuming the amount is $8,000 or less. If the dog is owned by a couple, you would sue both... Read more »

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2 Answers | Asked in Animal / Dog Law and Personal Injury for Florida on
Q: A dog attacked my cat on my property. Now my cat is missing. What all can I do

My neighbors on the side of her dog viciously attacked my cat. I have video proof of the dog in the cat in the altercation. My neighbor behind me was the one that broke up the altercation. I confronted my neighbor on the side. Showed her video documentation that it was her dog that attacked my cat.... Read more »

John Michael Frick
John Michael Frick
answered on May 18, 2023

You can sue for the fair market value of the cat. A pet owner has a legal duty to confine their pet with a leash or inside a fenced enclosure sufficient to prevent the pet from escaping. You might have to address why you can’t find your cat, but the video may be sufficient to persuade a jury... Read more »

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1 Answer | Asked in Animal / Dog Law for California on
Q: if my ex husband bought me a puppy can he just take it away from me and sell it to someone else just because he’s mad?
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answered on May 16, 2023

Generally, if your ex-husband bought the puppy and legally owns it, he may have certain rights regarding its possession and disposition. However, it is important to consider any relevant legal factors that may impact the situation, such as the existence of a divorce decree or custody agreement that... Read more »

3 Answers | Asked in Contracts, Animal / Dog Law and Landlord - Tenant for California on
Q: Can a landlord evict us over animals that're in the process of being emotional support animals but aren't registered yet

My wife was almost killed by a police K9 a year and a half ago while working for the sheriff's office. Her psychologist was suggesting she get some cats as a support animal because my wife is an animal lover, but now has a rightful fear and mistrust of dogs. Our apartment doesn't allow... Read more »

Gerald Barry Dorfman
Gerald Barry Dorfman
answered on May 12, 2023

You are in a difficult position. First, your lease is a contract. There did not have to be a specific discussion at the signing about pets if the lease says they are not allowed. Again, regarding that you "figured" small pets were fine: if the lease says no, you don't get to make... Read more »

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3 Answers | Asked in Contracts, Animal / Dog Law and Landlord - Tenant for California on
Q: Can a landlord evict us over animals that're in the process of being emotional support animals but aren't registered yet

My wife was almost killed by a police K9 a year and a half ago while working for the sheriff's office. Her psychologist was suggesting she get some cats as a support animal because my wife is an animal lover, but now has a rightful fear and mistrust of dogs. Our apartment doesn't allow... Read more »

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answered on May 15, 2023

California law provides important protections for tenants with disabilities who require emotional support animals (ESAs). While these laws can be complex, in most cases, landlords are required to make "reasonable accommodations" for tenants with disabilities, even if the landlord... Read more »

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3 Answers | Asked in Contracts, Animal / Dog Law and Landlord - Tenant for California on
Q: Can a landlord evict us over animals that're in the process of being emotional support animals but aren't registered yet

My wife was almost killed by a police K9 a year and a half ago while working for the sheriff's office. Her psychologist was suggesting she get some cats as a support animal because my wife is an animal lover, but now has a rightful fear and mistrust of dogs. Our apartment doesn't allow... Read more »

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answered on May 16, 2023

In California, the rights of individuals with disabilities and their emotional support animals are protected under state and federal laws.

Emotional Support Animals (ESAs): Emotional support animals provide comfort and support to individuals with disabilities, and they are not required to...
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1 Answer | Asked in Animal / Dog Law for California on
Q: I legally adopted a dog from a shelter in California that has not been spayed yet. Without any records, can she be clamd

This person claims to be their owner. They have no pictures or documentation. This dog was found on a highway. It is a puppy. The dog has been in a shelter for approximately 10 days. This person has not even come into the shelter to view the dog, nor are they going to come into the shelter for... Read more »

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on May 11, 2023

Based on the information provided, it appears that you have legally adopted the dog from the shelter, and the person claiming ownership has no pictures or documentation to support their claim. Additionally, the dog was found on a highway and has been in the shelter for a considerable amount of... Read more »

1 Answer | Asked in Animal / Dog Law for California on
Q: I legally adopted a dog from a shelter in California that has not been spayed yet. Without any records, can she be clamd

This person claims to be their owner. They have no pictures or documentation. This dog was found on a highway. It is a puppy. The dog has been in a shelter for approximately 10 days. This person has not even come into the shelter to view the dog, nor are they going to come into the shelter for... Read more »

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answered on May 11, 2023

In California, once you have completed the adoption process and legally adopted the dog, you generally have the rights of ownership, including the right to possess and care for the dog. The fact that the person claiming ownership has no pictures or documentation, and has not come to view or collect... Read more »

1 Answer | Asked in Divorce and Animal / Dog Law for Texas on
Q: Is it legal for a person to house 12 to 18 cats in a 1000 sq ft apartment dwelling. They eat 3 to 5 cups daily.

The house is very unhealthy. I divorced my wife because of this now I'm homeless. Section 8 is allowing a single woman to live in a house with 12 to 15 cats. The ammonia smells so strong it burns your eyes and nose. It's not healthy for her it hasn't been healthy for me in about 12... Read more »

John Michael Frick
John Michael Frick
answered on May 10, 2023

As her husband, you unquestionably had a greater say about this situation than any Section 8 agency.

You might be able to make some headway reporting her for animal cruelty if the health of the cats are endangered. As for her own health, that is really something for her to decide for...
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1 Answer | Asked in Animal / Dog Law, Car Accidents and Personal Injury for California on
Q: Can attorney help me Sue the US postal Service for hitting my chihuahua and not stopping my dog needed amputation

This was a hit and run I've contacted the postal service and inform them of the incident I've gone to the direct postal Service and left a message handwritten note to inform them that I need to find out who the driver was between 3:00 and 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday March 21st on American and... Read more »

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on May 8, 2023

Yes, an attorney can help you pursue legal action against the US Postal Service for hitting your chihuahua and not stopping, which resulted in the need for amputation.

To pursue legal action against the Postal Service, you will need to file a claim under the Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA)....
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2 Answers | Asked in Personal Injury and Animal / Dog Law for California on
Q: Can someone help me file a claim against the United States Post Office for hitting my chihuahua which is a service anima

March 21st which was a Tuesday 2023 approximately 3:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. across the street from a school in school crosswalk my chihuahua was hit the postal worker that hit my chihuahua did not stop this was a hit and run

Leon Bayer
Leon Bayer
answered on May 8, 2023

I am sorry to hear about your dog. I hope your dog is ok.

I assume your dog was running loose, or else you probably would have been hit too.

Unless your dog was on a leash, I feel you have no case. Your dog should not have been roaming around.

However, you are entitled to...
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2 Answers | Asked in Personal Injury and Animal / Dog Law for California on
Q: Can someone help me file a claim against the United States Post Office for hitting my chihuahua which is a service anima

March 21st which was a Tuesday 2023 approximately 3:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. across the street from a school in school crosswalk my chihuahua was hit the postal worker that hit my chihuahua did not stop this was a hit and run

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answered on May 8, 2023

Yes, you may be able to file a claim against the United States Postal Service for hitting your chihuahua, which is a service animal, in a hit and run accident.

To file a claim against the Postal Service, you will need to follow the process outlined by the Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA)....
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1 Answer | Asked in Animal / Dog Law for California on
Q: What can I do if my dog was injured at the groomers they are denying anything happening to them them.

My dog had her tongue out it was purple, she was cold to the touch, and was gasping for air couldn’t stand anymore after taking her to the vet. She tried several times to get up but she couldn’t get up

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answered on May 5, 2023

If you believe your dog was injured while at the groomers, you may have legal options available to you. Here are some steps you can take:

Get your dog medical attention: If your dog is injured, take them to the vet immediately to get medical attention. Be sure to keep all medical records...
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1 Answer | Asked in Animal / Dog Law and Civil Rights for California on
Q: I live in California. I was denied access to my arraignment because the court Commission would not let my service dog in

the courtroom. I want to sue for violation of the ADA. (Unruh Act) Who are the defendants and what court do I sue them in?

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answered on Apr 28, 2023

If you were denied access to your arraignment in California because the court refused to allow your service dog in the courtroom, you may have a valid claim under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Unruh Act, which provides broader protections for individuals with disabilities in... Read more »

1 Answer | Asked in Animal / Dog Law for California on
Q: can I sue the owner of the dog for attacking my cat

The owner was walking their dog with an extended leash. The dog attacked my cat. I found her 3 weeks later with broken bones. Can I still sue the owner for medical bills ?

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answered on Apr 24, 2023

If your cat was attacked by a dog while it was being walked on a leash by its owner, and as a result, your cat suffered injuries and required medical treatment, you may be able to pursue legal action against the dog owner to seek compensation for your cat's medical bills.

In many...
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1 Answer | Asked in Animal / Dog Law for California on
Q: How do I gain custody of a dog that my ex has paid for and is predominantly the name on for most paperwork?

My ex paid for our dog initially. Her name is on some vet bills, the health insurance, and other potential documents related to him. I have proof I've paid for the health insurance his whole life, some vet bills, and everyday supplies. His licensing is under my name.

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answered on Apr 21, 2023

If you are seeking to gain custody of a dog that your ex has paid for and is predominantly named on most paperwork, there are several steps you may be able to take.

First, it may be helpful to consult with an attorney who specializes in animal law or family law. They can help you understand...
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1 Answer | Asked in Animal / Dog Law for North Carolina on
Q: I gave my dog away now I want him back, and she don't want to give him back. I didn't sign any document. Can you help?
N'kia (NLN)
N'kia (NLN)
answered on Apr 19, 2023

Giving your dog to someone else is typically considered a "gift." In North Carolina, most gifts are considered "irrevocable." (In other words, the giver can't just take back a gift once given).

An exception to this general rule is when a gift comes with...
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1 Answer | Asked in Animal / Dog Law for North Carolina on
Q: Can i shoot the neighbors dog for constantly trying to kill my two cats and get off his chain to attack us in nc?

This dog has attacked its own drug and booze laden owners. Its a threat to my daughter and all of the other kids around here. No one can outside in their own yard without it barking non stop. Ive told them to handle it or i will. My kitten got out and is now gone for good because of this dog.

N'kia (NLN)
N'kia (NLN)
answered on Apr 18, 2023

Generally, the best option in this situation is to start by contacting the appropriate government authority, such as animal control. Trying to take matters into your own hands could potentially result in civil claims and/or criminal charges. If you have questions about your specific legal rights... Read more »

1 Answer | Asked in Animal / Dog Law for California on
Q: The police came too my house with warrant took my dog too pound but they found no drugs in my house they refused too let

Us see the dog in fact they said she swallowed some meth and now the hospital bills and vet bills are $3,000 and they said we had three days to pay it or she becomes property of Santa Monica and we can no longer get our dog back they lied too us alot what do I do

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answered on Apr 15, 2023

If you believe that the police unlawfully seized your dog and you want to challenge their actions, you may want to consider speaking with an attorney who specializes in animal law or civil rights. You may also want to file a complaint with the police department's internal affairs division or... Read more »

2 Answers | Asked in Criminal Law and Animal / Dog Law for California on
Q: My uncle's gf took my 2 newborn french bulldogs when they were 2 days old. She said she would whelp them and return them

She will not return them and police aren't helping. How do I get them back

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answered on Apr 13, 2023

If someone has taken your French bulldogs without your permission, you may have legal options available to you to retrieve your dogs.

First, you should gather any evidence that you have to prove that the dogs are rightfully yours, such as purchase or adoption papers, photos, or veterinary...
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