Liability For Vets Bill?

[Tilly2]

My dog has just had a fight with another dog. Both dogs were on the lead. The other dog ended up with a bloody nose. The other owner is saying that we are liable for the vets bill. My husband gave the other bloke our address. Does anyone know where we stand in relation to this?

[Tilly2]

The purpose of this thread was to find out whether we were legally obliged to pay the vet's bills following an incident with two dogs who were both on leads. I now have the answer and am not prepared to get into a discussion about doting dog owners letting there dogs roam free. I don't do that and never will.

[AB Editor]

Disclaimer: All Answers found here should not be taken in the stead of legal advice from a solicitor.

Please refrain from being rude, abusive or judgemental - members come here for advice, not judgement! Members who offer only moral judgement will be suspended.

[Barmaid]

I agree with Fred that you are not legally obliged to do so - unless you were aware that your dog has a propensity to nip other dogs whilst on the lead.

Entirely up to you whether you make a contribution.

I take the view that it doesnt matter how you term your payment as long as you use the words "in full and final settlement".

You could say

Dear Mr Smith

Further to the altercation today between our dog, Tilly, and your dog, Buster, we are writing to make an offer of a contribution to your vets bill.

This offer is made in full and final settlement of any costs you incur arising out of the incident and are without admission of liability.

We offer to pay you the sum of *** towards the vet's bills for Buster. Please acknowledge receipt of this offer in writing. On acceptance, we will arrange for payment to be made within 14 days."

Realistically if this fought, it is going to be small claims court and realistically it doesn't really matter how one technically terms the offer.

[tonywiltshire]

You are under no legal liability to pay, as the other side will discover if they take advice but it is an offence to let a dog get dangerously out of control in a public place.
You may feel some moral liability to pay in which case take care how you do so.
I suggest you check with your household Insurance to see if they cover the type of incident you describe as many do, you can then suggest the other side contact your insurers if you are asked to pay.

[Canary42]

Thanks woofgang for the clarification on "without prejudice" - I did say I wasn't an expert. Sorry if I caused confusion with my uneducated meddling !

[seadogg]

Years ago it happened to us when one of our terriers became too excited in a stand off with another dog and bit it. The owner sent a rather apologetic young policeman and demanded payment. A legal eagle friend referred me a case involving the Chief Constable of Kent and somebody with a name like Sangstrom. Here the judge threw out the litigants case. I paid the vets bill anyway. The owner became a friend.

[andy-hughes]

Rather like children - it's always adviseable to stay out of your pet's disagreements - although in this case, with leads involved, it's a bit tricky.

I would agree that you are under no legal obligation to pay, but if you wish to offer a portion of the other owner's bill, then that is a nice gesture, although as advised, you should word your letter so that no admission of guilt is intended, or implied.

From my experience, dogs on leads can get a bit anxious when other dogs get close - maybe they feel a restriction on their 'fight or flight' mechanism, so they get a bite in first.

Hopefully you will be able to sort this out amicably.

[murraymints]

hope both doggies are recovered Tilly...barmaid has given good advice..

[joko]

what exactly is the damage to the nose? a cut on the nose isnt likely to cost much id have thought

[Tilly2]

Thank you Barmaid for the letter pro forma.

We have been around to the house and seen the puppy and she seems to be fine. She did have a cut on her nose and has been given painkillers and antibiotics. We took the letter and have offered to pay The majority of the bill. Both me shook hands and we parted company amicably. I am so relieved that the other little dog was o.k.. Funnily enough, Tilly seems to be sulking tonight. She won't eat her tea or her chew.

[mazie]

Aww... Glad you sorted it Tilly. Hope both of them feel much better tomorrow x

[Psybbo]

Have you had her checked at the vets as well, Tilly?

[Tilly2]

No, Psybbo. She was not physically hurt. I think she may be upset though. Perhaps she thinks we are cross with her.

[woofgang]

Tilly, your dog lashed out through stress and fear because the other dog was too close. Its no wonder that she is still upset, not sulking but still stressed and scared, maybe even a little in shock. keep her warm and quiet tonight and I am sure she will feel better tomorrow. If she doesn't then talk to the vet.