I agree with the others. The owner of the dog who attacked Cricket is liable under Florida law whether he believes he is or not.
767.01 Dog owner's liability for damages to persons, domestic animals, or livestock.--Owners of dogs shall be liable for any damage done by their dogs to a person or to any animal included in the definitions of "domestic animal" and "livestock" as provided by section 585.01.
It should be pretty straightforward to bring a claim in small claims court to cover all Cricket's veterinary expenses.
Florida Small Claims Court Information