Ontario’s highest court has ruled that a part-time dog walker, Amanda Nigro, cannot sue her clients for injuries sustained from a dog bite while on the job, as she was deemed the “owner” of the dog during the incident. The ruling comes after Nigro was bitten by a boxer named Forrest Gump while attempting to put booties on him in March 2022. Under the Ontario Dog Owners’ Liability Act (DOLA), liability for dog attacks extends beyond the registered owner to anyone in control of the animal at the time. Both lower courts upheld that Nigro fit this definition of ownership, leading to the dismissal of her $1 million lawsuit against the dog’s owners. Legal experts warn that this case highlights the broad legal implications for anyone caring for pets in Ontario.
Why It Matters
This ruling underscores the expansive definition of dog ownership in Ontario’s Dog Owners’ Liability Act, which holds individuals responsible for dog attacks regardless of ownership paperwork. Previous cases have established similar outcomes, reinforcing the principle of “leash liability” in Ontario and raising awareness among pet caregivers about their potential legal responsibilities. As pet ownership continues to rise, understanding these laws becomes increasingly critical to prevent personal injury claims and ensure accountability among those handling animals.
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