What Happens If My Dog is Attacked By Another Dog in Illinois?

 Posted on August 27, 2020 in Dog Bite Injuries

If you are a dog owner, you likely consider your dog to be a member of the family and want to keep it safe from harm. If your dog is attacked by another dog, the situation can be extremely upsetting, and it is understandable that you would want some kind of compensation for your distress. In Illinois, it is possible to pursue recovery from the other dog’s owner under certain circumstances, and an experienced dog bite attorney can help you make your case.

Keeping Your Dog Safe From Other Dog Attacks

The best way to avoid the trauma of an attack on your dog is to take steps that can prevent it from happening in the first place. As a responsible dog owner, you should make sure to do all of the following:

• Train your dog: Working with your dog on your own or attending a dog obedience class can ensure that your dog is comfortable around other dogs and abstains from behavior that could provoke another dog to attack.

• Use a leash: When taking your dog for a walk in an area where other dogs may be present, keep it on a leash whenever possible to prevent it from running off into another dog’s space. If you let your dog out on your property, consider installing a fence or another system that keeps your dog close to home.

• Supervise your dog: If you are at an off-leash dog park or in any situation where your dog is interacting with other dogs, keep a close eye to watch out for signs of aggression and ensure that your dog is not doing anything to threaten another.

Seeking Compensation for an Attack on Your Dog

If your dog is attacked and injured or killed, you may have grounds for a lawsuit if you can demonstrate that the other dog’s owner was negligent. For example, failing to control a dog deemed vicious or dangerous, or allowing the dog to run free without a leash or supervision may make the owner responsible for the attack. Since a dog is considered your property under Illinois law, you can potentially seek compensation for economic damages stemming from the attack, including:

• Veterinary expenses for treatment or euthanasia.

• The cost of purchasing the dog if the dog is killed.

• The cost of any previous service or guide dog training if your dog is killed or no longer able to perform its duties.

It may be challenging to prove that the other owner was liable or that the attack was unprovoked, and your best chance at a successful outcome is to hire an attorney who can help you gather evidence and witness testimony to build a strong argument.

Contact a Naperville Dog Bite Attorney

At Mevorah & Giglio Law Offices, we focus on all types of legal cases involving dog bites, and we are committed to helping you get the compensation you deserve for injuries to you, your family, or your pets. Contact a DuPage County dog bite lawyer today for a free consultation at 630-552-6860.

Source:

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs3.asp?ActID=1704&ChapterID=41