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ARTICLE · 04 OCTOBER 2022

My Dog Bit Somebody… Am I Liable?

Siskinds LLP
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During the pandemic, lots of people became first-time dog owners. With this added companionship also comes liability for the actions of their new pet.

CanadaLitigation, Mediation & Arbitration
Joe Gaynor
Joe Gaynor
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During the pandemic, lots of people became first-time dog owners. With this added companionship also comes liability for the actions of their new pet. Unfortunately, we can't always predict the behaviour of our dogs. Dog attacks can cause serious injuries, especially to young children who are more vulnerable. You may never think about dog attacks affecting you or your loved ones, but the World Health Organization estimates that dogs bite tens of millions of people per year.

Dog Owners' Liability Act

Under the Dog Owners' Liability Act (the "Act"), a dog owner is liable for damages resulting from a bite or attack by their dog on another person or domestic animal. The owner has a responsibility to take reasonable precautions to prevent their dog from:

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