It wasn’t your intention to get a dog today. However, you walked by the window of a pet store and a large-eyed puppy caught your gaze. Before you knew it, you were thinking of ways to make your home a home to this dog. Falling in love with the puppy is easy. However, have you considered the legalities involved?
One Dog Too Many
Most states have laws on pet hoarding that are enforced through local municipalities. Having too many animals can be considered animal abuse or animal cruelty. When one has too many pets, they may not be able to provide adequate shelter, adequate medical treatment, or adequate food and water. Having too many dogs can violate health and zoning laws and can lead to your home being condemned while you face fees or jail time.
A Bark That’s Worse Than Its Bite
A dog that constantly barks is a nuisance. And while police usually aren’t too interested in barking dog problems, your dog’s constant barking may violate a state or local noise ordinance. Even if your state or locality does not have a law that is specifically aimed at silencing noisy dogs, there is usually some general noise ordinance that your pet may be violating. Make sure you understand the laws surrounding where you live, and make sure that you can provide an adequately comfortable environment for your dog so they will be less likely to bark unnecessarily.
A Bite That’s Worse Than Its Bark
Frequently you hear stories in the news about children being attacked by a dog. Although certain breeds of dogs have a reputation for attacking, just about any breed of dog can attack and cause severe injury if provoked. If your dog attacks or bites another person, you may find yourself face-to-face with a personal injury lawsuit brought about by the person who was bitten. You may be required to pay medical expenses, lost wages, as well as your own legal expenses. Bite laws change from state to state and include strict liability laws, one bite laws, and laws pertaining to negligence. A personal injury lawyer, like those at Bellotti Law Group, P.C., can help you understand potential liability you may face.
Owning a pet is a lot of fun. However, dog ownership is a big responsibility. Not only are you responsible for the animal’s well-being, but you are also responsible for making sure that your pet does not become a nuisance or, worse yet, cause injury to someone in your community.
