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Rotweiller Kills Florida Toddler

By Eddie Farah

A 20-month old little Florida boy was attacked and killed by a Rottweiler after dropping his cookie on the floor, according to law enforcement authorities in New Port Richey, Florida.

The baby was visiting his aunt's home during a party Saturday night. The boy went to grab the cookie when the dog instead went for him.

Panicking, family members tried to pry the dog off the child, but it was too late. He died in the hospital. Animal control took the dog, which under law they have to keep for 10 days during which time the owner may request a hearing.

Surely the owners must have known they had a problem with food aggression and a large animal. Nonetheless our hearts go out to this family for their tragic loss.

Surgeons will tell you that they are often called upon to repair the faces of children that were literally torn apart by the beloved family pet. Each one will say the same thing, "this dog was so loving and protective. We never thought she/he would do anything like this."

Dog Owners Liability

Generally, the owner of an aggressive dog that bites a person is liable for damages suffered by persons bitten. However, if there is any negligence or contribution by the person bitten, it reduces the liability of the owner.

For example, if you are trespassing and are bitten by the dog that is there to protect the property, it reduces the liability of the owner. If a child provokes the dog, it could be considered the cause of the accident, reducing his recovery of damages, unless the child is under the age of six.

And many homeowners' insurers will not offer coverage if they find you have a breed considered dangerous, such as a Rottweiler, German shepherd, Doberman Pincher, or Pit Bull.

Every year about 500 Florida resident are bitten severely enough to require hospitalization and two Floridians die due to injuries from dog bites. Nationally, more than 4.7 million Americans, half of them children are bitten by dogs. Summer months tend to be the worst for dog bite injuries.

If a dog has previously been declared a dangerous dog and bites, the owner is guilty of a misdemeanor of the first degree. #

Originally posted at InjuryBoard by Eddie Farah

Full post as published by Jacksonville Personal Injury Lawyer on December 15, 2009 (boomark / email).