As a pet owner, nothing is more terrifying than seeing your beloved pet get attacked, especially by a neighbor's dog. Whether it happens on your property or while you’re walking through the neighborhood, knowing your rights and who to contact is crucial. I’m Nathan Derry with JohnHart Real Estate, and as someone who frequently walks the neighborhood, I’ve seen—and been told of—numerous incidents involving unleashed animals. Here’s what you need to know to protect your pet and ensure everyone’s safety.

What to Do If Your Pet Is Attacked on Your Property

If your pet is attacked by a neighbor’s dog while on your property, the law is generally on your side. Here’s what to do:

1. Ensure Your Pet’s Immediate Safety: First, secure your pet and remove them from the dangerous situation if possible. Make sure the aggressor dog is no longer a threat. If necessary, separate the animals safely using barriers like a fence or an object like a broom.

2. Seek Veterinary Care: After the attack, immediately take your pet to the vet, even if their injuries seem minor. Internal injuries or infections may not be visible right away, and having a medical record will be crucial if legal action becomes necessary.

3. Document the Incident: Take photos of your pet’s injuries, the other dog involved, and the location of the attack. If possible, gather witness statements from neighbors who saw the attack. Documentation is essential if you need to file a formal complaint or lawsuit.

4. Report the Attack to Animal Control: In Los Angeles County, you can contact the local Animal Care and Control Department. They will investigate the situation and determine if the other dog is a public safety threat. In severe cases, they may designate the attacking dog as a "dangerous animal," which can lead to restrictions on the dog’s movement or even removal from the neighborhood.

   • Los Angeles County Animal Care and Control: (562) 940-6898
   • City of Los Angeles Department of Animal Services: (888) 452-7381

Know Your Rights: In California, pet owners have the right to file a civil lawsuit if their pet is injured or killed by another dog. You may be entitled to recover the cost of veterinary bills, emotional distress, and, in some cases, punitive damages if the neighbor was particularly negligent (such as if their dog had a known history of aggression).

What to Do If the Attack Happens Off Your Property

If your pet is attacked while you’re walking them off your property, things can get more complicated, but you still have legal options:

1. Same Immediate Steps Apply: Ensure your pet’s safety, seek veterinary care, and document everything just as you would if the attack happened on your property.

2. California’s "Strict Liability" Law: California has strict liability laws when it comes to dog attacks. This means that if a dog bites or injures your pet in a public space, the owner of that dog is liable, even if their pet has no history of aggressive behavior. Whether the incident occurs in a park or on a public street, the attacking dog’s owner is responsible for the damages.

3. File a Report with Animal Control: Just like with an attack on your property, you’ll want to report the incident to your local animal control office. Animal control can investigate and take further action if needed, especially if the other dog is frequently off-leash or known to be aggressive.

Who to Contact First in Los Angeles County

If you’re in LA County or surrounding areas, here’s who to contact first if your pet gets attacked:

• Los Angeles County Animal Care and Control: (562) 940-6898
  This is your go-to resource for dog attack reports in unincorporated areas of LA County. They will investigate and, if necessary, take legal action against the dog owner.

• City of Los Angeles Department of Animal Services: (888) 452-7381
  If you live in LA city limits, this is the department to report to. They have the authority to investigate attacks, issue citations, and impose restrictions on dangerous animals.

• Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department: (213) 229-1700
  If the attack was severe and immediate danger is present, you can also contact local law enforcement, especially if the aggressive dog remains a threat.

Unleashed Animals: A Neighborhood Hazard

As a frequent walker in my neighborhood, I’ve witnessed—and been told about—numerous incidents involving unleashed dogs, sometimes attacking other pets or even people. Whether it’s a friendly neighborhood dog or a wild animal like a coyote, unleashing your pet puts them at risk. Even the most well-behaved and "friendly" dog can encounter an aggressive animal, which could result in serious injury or even death.

Let’s not forget about mail carriers, delivery personnel, or neighbors passing by. Unleashed dogs present a real hazard, and as pet owners, we have a responsibility to ensure the safety of our pets and others. Your "cute and friendly" dog could find itself in an unpredictable situation. Protect your pet by keeping them leashed and properly contained.

If your pet is attacked by a neighbor’s dog, whether on your property or elsewhere, knowing your rights and responsibilities is crucial. Contact your local animal control, seek veterinary care, and make sure to document everything. Remember, as pet owners, we’re not just responsible for the safety of our pets, but also for ensuring that others—humans and animals alike—are safe around them. I’m Nathan Derry with JohnHart Real Estate, and I encourage all pet owners to be mindful of their pets’ behavior and to take necessary precautions for everyone’s safety.

All the best,

Nathan Derry, Realtor

📍JohnHart Real Estate

📞(424) 303-0440

📧 nathan@jhagents.com

👨🏽‍💻 itsnathanderry.com

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