Consider whether or not your dog was in the wrong.
This isn’t something that dog owners like to admit. Many will blindly maintain their pet’s innocence or a lapse in character during a negative experience. Or, they will falsely blame the other animal or person involved because they can’t bear to think of their pet being at fault. This sense of denial isn’t uncommon but it might lessen your case. It helps to think back to why the accused lashed out at your dog in the first place. Was your dog….
a) off the lead and worrying livestock in a farmer’s field, causing the landowner to lash out.
b) getting too close to another dog and putting it at risk, causing the dog’s owner to get overprotective.
c) snapping at people, perhaps children, causing the parent to kick out to protect the child.
These cases are where you don’t have so much to gain from a civil action case. While your dog may have been injured and you feel they deserve some justice, you may have broken some laws yourself or put someone in danger. Cases of self-defence or the protection of livestock may go in the favour of those you accuse. You may then get charges against you as the owner of an unruly dog and a lot of legal costs to contend with.
Should I fight back if someone kicks my dog?
The instinct here is to retaliate. In our recent survey over 98% of respondents said they would lash out either verbally, physically or both in this situation. And that is totally understandable as your beloved pet, an innocent animal that can’t stand up to a human, has just been attacked. However, it is important that you stay as calm as possible and don’t do anything to make the matter worse. It is vital that you:
a) resist the urge to physically harm or restrain the offender
b) gather as much evidence as possible about the assault and the person responsible, such as photographic or video evidence from by witnesses.
c) tend to your dog as soon as possible so that they get the best care. Reassure them, take them home, and see a vet for a check-up.
d) go and speak to the police about your case. Do not use the emergency number unless there is a significant or immediate threat.
c) contact the RSPCA for further guidance and to report the attacker
Can I press charges against the person that kicked my dog?
Possibly. You can at the very least talk to the police, state your case, and then see what they can or cannot do about the situation. This is where all those previous actions can pay off. You may have evidence to present to help your case. Also, don’t forget that the law may be on your side.
You Kicked My Dog
Theres a bit of controversy among pet owners about whether its legal to hit your pets.
In most jurisdictions, pets are considered “property” for purposes of determining custody during a divorce, for example. Pets also cant own property, which is why you generally shouldnt try to leave your dog your house in your will.