Question
What is the best course of action to seek compensation for my dog's pain, suffering, and treatment expenses, including the cost of surgery? I have already contacted a large attorney group, and they are not interested in taking this case. I don't have the money to pay out of pocket for an attorney. My dog walked into the groomer's, but he couldn't walk or bear weight when he was picked up from the groomer's. The groomer's response to why he couldn't walk after he walked into the groomer's was that my dog was faking not being able to walk. The groomer had to use a towel under his belly to lift him to my car, and my dog was shaking and crying all the way to my car. What are my options for the groomer's horrific negligence? My dog sustained a major injury, a ruptured cranial cruciate ligament, due to their negligence at the groomer's, which required surgery. This has been documented by a licensed veterinarian.
Answer
People who believe that a groomer’s negligence caused harm to their animal can sue to try to get compensated, such as for veterinary expenses incurred in treating their animal’s injuries. If the groomer had insurance and/or if the groomer acknowledges liability, it may be possible to settle the claim without the necessity of litigation. Complaints about groomers may also be made with consumer protection agencies and better business bureaus. Some municipalities require groomers to have permits and adhere to standards. In these municipalities, complaints may be made to the licensing agency too. If there is evidence that the injury was caused by an intentional act, law enforcement authorities should be contacted. Some personal injury attorneys will take cases on a contingency basis (taking a percentage of money awarded or agreed to in a settlement rather than an hourly fee). Lawsuits may also be commenced in Small Claims Court where most litigants are not represented by attorneys. Small Claims Courts are user friendly and it is inexpensive to start a lawsuit in these courts. However, as the name indicates, only small claims can be brought in Small Claims Court. In Florida, the maximum amount one can sue for in Small Claims Court is $8000. I hope your dog makes a full and speedy 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.