Dog attacks are a common source of personal injury in Canada, especially among children. A recent Canadian study found more children are admitted to hospital because of dog bites than other injury.
1. These injuries are often serious, frequently requiring surgical intervention and/or numerous stitches.
2. There are other costs and consequences as well, including emotional distress and out-of-pocket medical expenses.
Read MoreIf you experience physical pain, scarring or psychological damage from the behaviour of an animal that belongs to another person, you are entitled to make a claim for compensation.
Dog bites are probably the most common type of animal injury, and Ontario has a statute called the Dog Owner’s Liability Act which governs such situations. This law basically provides that the owners of a dog are always liable for damages resulting from a bite or attack by their dog on another person or domestic animal, regardless of whether they knew the animal was dangerous or not. This rule does not apply, however, if a guard dog attacks someone who is breaking into the premises.
