I am so sorry for your loss -- what a horrible way to have to lose a beloved pet! I too, would be furious with the neighbors for their lack of concern and sympathy. Since they did nothing to show remorse, I would send them a bill. I might even have a lawyer draw up a letter itemizing the bill. Include, anything broken, the cost if professionally cleaned, the cost of a Yorkie at today's prices, then figure some sort of cost to account for the personal shock, misery, loss of companionship, etc.. (even though no amount of money would every come close to either replacing your baby or atoning for your feelings about this tragedy). I would also include a request for what you might feel would be a safer way for them to keep their dogs -- i.e. install a topped fenced dog run. Since they jump the current fence it is NOT adequate. I would also inquire about the property owners responsibility in cases like this and send a copy to him. The property owners might not want such vicious dogs in their home.
I am usually against suing over accidents, but when a person knows they have a vicious dog and then knew it had jumped the fence, that was no accident -- thta was pure negligence. When our neighbor's dog dug up my flower bed, my neighbor apologized a hundred times and even offered to purchase new flowers! That was just some little old flowers -- for the loss of life, this person should have been giving you every ounce of sympathy, apology and some offer of help and restitution there could be! So, if they don't pay the bill, I would definately discuss the next step with the lawyer. People need to be held accountable when they refuse to live up to their responsibilities. If nothing else, you could always use the money to donate to a rescue organization in memory of your sweet baby. |