DOG BITES

It’s the season for dog bites—at the dog park, the baseball game, or most commonly, in your own yard.  Despite the emotional upset and the physical injury, there are other factors at play.

Dog bite liability is often absolute, that is, if your dog bites someone, you are at fault.  If you own your own home, most homeowner insurance policies will cover the first claim.  However, there are certain breeds of dogs that insurance companies may be reluctant to insure at all, or only with a higher premium.  Chows, Pit Bulls, and Rottweilers are some of those on the “vicious dog” list.

You should also check with local Animal Control for local laws on breed prohibition.  In Brookings, for instance, snakes are prohibited as pets, and there are number restrictions for dogs and cats. You may want to investigate breed exclusions with your policy.