If you follow us on Google Plus or regularly read this blog, then you know our family recently acquired a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel If you don’t follow us on Google Plus, then let me first say you should and second let me introduce you to Lincoln Day. Lincoln is the love of my 7 year-old daughter’s life. Thankfully, we are past the potty-training stage and are now working on what is appropriate behavior when guests arrive at our house, how to properly walk on a leash, etc. As my daughter is finding out, owning a pet is a big responsibility.
Unfortunately, some pet owners do not take it seriously enough, so we thought we would outline, from a legal perspective some considerations and actions you should be prepared to take before taking on a pet.
Loose pets can cause accidents. Joggers, bicyclists, motorcycle riders and car drivers can all tell you about accidents or near-misses caused by a loose animal that either bolted into the road or aggressively pursued a biker, runner, etc. Tennessee does have a leash law. So before getting a pet, think about how you will keep it under control. I recently discovered that some electric fences are portable. So if you don’t want to shell out the cash to run an underground line because you are renting, have plans to move in the near future etc., consider the portable electric fence. This device could also come in handy if you travel with your dog.
Dog bite claims comprise more than 1/3 of all homeowner’s claims. And quite frankly, those are the lucky people because there is insurance in place to protect the dog owner and the injury victim. If you own a breed that is considered a bully breed (Pit bulls, Rottweilers, Dobermans, German Shepherds, etc.), your homeowner’s policy might exclude coverage for your dog. So review your policy. If your dog’s breed is excluded, purchase a separate policy to protect yourself and anyone your dog may hurt.
If you or a loved one has been injured by a dog or any other type of animal (see our goat post here), you may be entitled to money for your injuries, medical bills, lost wages, etc. At The Law Offices of John Day, P.C., our top-rated attorneys will gladly review your case, answer your questions and advise you of your legal rights in a free, no-obligation consultation.
If you have been injured in an accident, we know that your finances may already be in havoc thanks to medical bills, time off from work, etc. The last thing you budgeted for was paying for a lawyer. So we handle all injury cases on a contingency basis. And unlike some lawyers, we advance all case expenses so you do not have to pay a penny out of pocket to pursue your rights.
To help you decide if we are the right lawyers for you, review some of the testimonials for our satisfied clients, check out the awards and honors we have received and then call us and talk to us. Contact us at 615-742-4880 (Nashville) or 615-867-9900 (Murfreesboro) or 866-812-8787 (toll-free).