Question
I left my 14yo dog with a pet sitter for a week during the recent holidays. When I returned to pick her up, she wasn't moving, had pooped herself inside her crate, and had large "bedsores". I questioned the pet sitter and she said that my dog didn't move much. So far, I've taken her to the vet twice (at quite a cost) to treat her. She is not doing well. I feel like this is negligence on the part of the pet sitter who was charged with her care. There is no contract nor did I go through a company for the pet sitter. It was just between the pet sitter and me. I'm wondering what to do. Is there any legal redress possible from the pet sitter?
Answer
An animal’s “parent” whose animal was harmed while in the care of a pet-sitter may sue the pet-sitter for monetary compensation. It will be necessary to show that the harm to the animal was caused by the negligence, recklessness, or intentional act of the pet-sitter. It will also be necessary to prove damages (such as veterinary bills) resulting from the negligence, recklessness, or intentional act. Punitive damages, in addition to compensatory damages, may be sought and awarded when the conduct of the defendant was egregious. I hope your dog makes a speedy and full recovery.
PLEASE NOTE: Responses to legal inquiries are not meant to replace seeking legal advice from an attorney in your state. The materials in this website and any responses to questions are for informational purposes only and are not intended, nor should they be construed, as legal advice. This website, the information contained herein, and any responses to questions directed to this column are not intended to create and do not establish an attorney-client relationship. You should not rely or act upon any information provided on this website or in any response to your inquiry without seeking the advice of an attorney in your state regarding the facts of your specific situation.
Send Your Pet Legal Question Now!
Elinor will field as many questions as she can and they will be posted here on this site. Due to the volume of questions received, not all questions are answered. However, many individuals have similar questions. You may find helpful information in the categories listed below.