Visitor Question

Our dog attacked another dog…what happens now?

Submitted By: Rosa (Jersey City, NJ)

We have a backyard and it’s fenced all around. The dog we have is from a pound – it’s a pitbull and she is not animal friendly. We share the backyard with another family they have two dogs as well. I had my dog in the backyard and the other owner walked out with the two dogs and there was a fight.

We are in full agreement with paying for all veterinary bills, but I do want to make sure I’m educated in this matter so I know what to expect and how to go about it. What can we expect? Thank you.

Disclaimer: Our response is not formal legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship. It is generic legal information based on the very limited information provided. Do not rely upon the information in our response, or anywhere else on this site, when deciding the proper course of a legal matter. Always get a personalized case review from a local attorney.

Answer

Dear Rosa,

The State of New Jersey does not have a statewide dog leash law. Instead, New Jersey relies on a State Consolidated Dog Law.

New Jersey State Law §40:48-1 reads in part…

“…the governing body of every municipality may make, amend, repeal, and enforce ordinances to prohibit or regulate the running of dogs at large.”

This law leaves individual cities to enact their own unique dog leash laws. As long as city laws do not conflict with State law, the city leash laws are valid.

Inasmuch as you have agreed to pay for the injuries and resulting veterinary care, the leash law will not apply in this case. However, you might check your homeowner’s insurance policy. In many cases, dog bites are covered, even if the dog bites are to other dogs.

Learn more here: What to Do If Another Dog Attacks Your Dog

The above is general information. Laws change frequently, and across jurisdictions. You should get a personalized case evaluation from a licensed attorney.

Find a local attorney to give you a free case review here, or call 888-972-0892.

We wish you the best with your claim,

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