Bitten by a Dog in Ontario? Here’s What You Need to Know

For many people, dogs are more than pets. They are members of the family. But no matter how gentle or well trained a dog may seem, dogs can sometimes act unpredictably. If you are the victim of a dog bite, it is important to understand your legal rights.

In Ontario, the Dog Owners’ Liability Act sets out the rules regarding dog bites and attacks. This law holds dog owners strictly responsible for any injuries or damage their dogs cause to people or other domestic animals. This responsibility applies even if the dog has never shown signs of aggression before.

To bring a claim, a person generally needs to show that:

The dog bit or attacked a person; or
The owner did not take reasonable steps to prevent the dog from biting or attacking.

As someone who has been injured, you may be able to recover compensation for:

Physical injuries, including cuts, bruises, or more serious harm
Psychological trauma, such as anxiety, nightmares, or fear of dogs
Lost income, if you had to take time off work
Medical treatment and therapy
Out of pocket expenses, including medication or travel costs
Damage to property

This law is designed to protect the public by placing clear responsibilities on dog owners.

If you have been involved in an incident causing you injury, it is always best to consult a professional lawyer who has experience arguing these types of claims to protect your interests. Please contact our team at JEWELL RADIMISIS JORGE LL.P for a free initial consultation at 1 (844) DIAL JRJ.