Originally Posted by Nancy1999 (Post 2392802)

I'm so sorry you had to go through this, and I'm glad that Merlot survived this attack. You are correct, this has changed you forever; something this traumatic always does. I believe you can take it to small claims court and sue for up to $5,000.00 in most states. Every judge will cover hospital costs, and subsequent vet visits, and items purchased for recovery. Most will not allow you to receive money for the pain and suffering of the animal because they are considered a possession. Some judges will allow you to claim work related claims, while others won't. Some will add punitive damages, if you can prove that the owner was negligent, i.e. pictures of a broken fence, or neighbor's testimony that the dog has gotten out many times, even a police record of this would be helpful. Keep your paperwork in order and clear and concise, and you are sure to get awarded the money, however collecting it may be another issue, and some people have found it better to just go to the owners, and ask for the money covering expenses. If you can find out the name of their home owner's insurance this can be helpful too, because most pit bull owners don't want their insurance companies to know they have a pit bull.