It is sadly correct that the majority of states categorize pets as 'property'. The most you can recover is vet bills and possibly documented value of the animal. Absolutely try to get any proof of prior incidents/citations against the offending animal and/or its owners. Be sure to list any hope of additional monies sought as "punitive" damages. Your pain and suffering are not applicable in a property loss case and won't even be considered. The law also feels that property does not suffer, so your best option at punishment is 'punitive'.
As long as our laws consider household domestic animals as mere property, owners of vicious offenders will continue free rein. Sad, just sad.....
__________________ lorelei,
wife to gerry  , momma to bear  , baxter  ,baby  and bug |