[speck103]

Hi All

My 2 yorkies and I were out walking(both on leash) 3 weeks ago, when a pitbull ran up and grabbed my oldest, Merlot by the neck and side.

I fought with the dog while trying to keep my other dog out of harms way and keep the dog from biting me. I grabbed the dog by the legs, but it would not let go. Neighbors came to help me and beat the dog with brooms until it released.

I only received scratches and bruising
My youngest was'nt hurt physically (Thank God, she's 1/2 Merlot's size)

I took Merlot straight to emergency that night. He underwent surgery for multiple lacerations, puncture wounds and torn muscles. He had draining tubes in for a week. He is up and walking now, but it has been a long recovery. He may always have a limp because of the attack.

The police and animal control arrived and took the dog into custody. He is still at animal control pending the full investigation. They were able to find where the dog lives because he walked straight home after the attack. he lives the next block over. Neighbors told animal control that the fence is often open and the dog get's out all the time.

I feel the owners should be responsible for the vet bills, my loss of work and pain and suffering or negligence. It's unfair that they just let their dog roam the neighborhood and my dog may now have a limp for life.
Not to mention I can't even walk my dogs without freaking out at every little sound or sight of other dogs.
It's changed everything. We no longer take long walks on the weekend or even just sit at the park getting fresh air. I take them out for 10 minutes to do their buisness and rush back in unless my husband is with me. I'm still having nightmares about the attack and can't seem to get it out of my head. I hate this.

Has this happened to anyone else here?
Animal Control and the police said that it's up to me to take action against the owners. They don't take part in financial claims.
Can I request payment from them for the buills, wages and negilgence or do I have to file a claim to sue?
I have tried talking to a lawyer, but they all deal with dog bites against humans. It's been hard for me to get information about this and I'm just so sick over the whole thing.

Any information would be greatly appreciated.