The Liabilities of Owning a Dog

In the U.S. there are an estimated 60 million dogs. While dogs make great companions, nearly two million people are bitten by dogs each year with around 800,000 persons getting professional medical treatment for their wounds. Each of these incidents is a potential lawsuit.

If you have homeowners insurance and you own a pet, the liability portion of your policy provides protection for losses arising from pet ownership. However, many insurance companies will not insure against dog bites for certain breeds that are considered aggressive, such as pitbulls, german shepherds, rottweilers and doberman pinschers. Check with your insurance agent to find out which breeds your insurer provides coverage for. Your homeowners insurance covers persons who have custody of your pet. However, your policy won't cover businesses that may have custody of your pet, such as kennels, obedience schools, groomers and professional sitters or walking services (they should carry their own coverage).

As a petowner, you have a responsibility to raise and handle your dogs in a manner that reduces the chance for a loss. Steps to take include becoming knowledgeable about general principles of ownership and care. Take advantage of resources available to you as tips from animal shelters, dog ownership clubs, the AKC, dog trainers, animal behaviorists and many informative Internet sites.

As always, we are available to answer any of your questions regarding dog ownership. Please call us at 617-354-4640.