When a Strange Child Angers Your Dog

You are hosting a party, and things are good. Your guests are having fun and enjoying themselves. Then, something causes a disturbance, and suddenly your passive dog has bitten a child! When a strange child angers your dog, you will have liability regardless of the circumstances.

The Scenario

Kaitlin hosted a party and invited some guests. One of her guests was a woman named Maria, who she had worked with for years. However, Maria decided to bring her five-year-old daughter Erika to the party as there would be other children. Erika spotted Kaitlin’s dog Jack lying on the carpet, minding his own business. Then, Erika became ecstatic and went to pet the dog. She giggled loudly, annoying Jack, who turned his head. Finally, she reached the top of the dog’s head, causing Jack to strike defensively. Now, Kaitlin is in trouble for damages.

The Claim

Maria alleges that Kaitlin was negligent in allowing a dangerous dog near her daughter. Conversely, Kaitlin stated that Maria did not prevent her child from approaching the canine and did not teach her how to pet the dog appropriately. It also did not help that Erika screamed, causing Jack to become aggressive. Thus, Jack reacted the way a dog would if something alarmed them.

Takeaways

Both could have done something to prevent this situation. Ultimately, Kaitlin could have warned her not to touch her dog without asking. Maria could have also instructed her daughter not to touch the dog. Regardless, Kaitlin must pay for damages caused by the dog and any injuries Erika sustained.

About Dog Bite Quote

At Dean Insurance Agency, we’ve been providing protection to dog owners since 2012, with more than 10,000 policies issued. Our underwriting criteria and years of experience providing this coverage enables us to offer competitive and fair policy premiums. Our policies are available in every state except Alaska and Kentucky. The quote is free, and there is NO obligation to purchase!