The Connecticut dog bite law applies to all dog breeds within the state. According to statute CGS § 22-357, no dog breed is exempt from the rules set forth in the statute. Any dog owner in Connecticut should familiarize themselves with the specifics of this dog law.
Statute CGS § 22-357
The statute outlines the legal responsibilities of a dog owner within the state. It explains that the dog owner is responsible if their dog injures someone or causes damage. The law usually applies whenever a dog bites or attacks someone, but there are possible exceptions.
Dog owners aren’t liable for dog attacks if the victim was trespassing. In order for the dog law to apply, the victim must have lawfully been present where the attack took place.
Statute CGS § 22-357 may also make an exception if the victim was in the process of attacking the owner or purposely taunting the dog. However, this depends on the circumstances of the case and the jurisdiction in which it occurred.
Consequences
If a dog bites someone, the owner is responsible even if they had no idea the dog was aggressive. Claiming not to know the dog would attack isn’t a valid defense. The victim also doesn’t need to prove that the owner was negligent or failed to prevent the attack.
If no exception applies, the dog owner might have to compensate the dog bite victim for the attack. Compensation can include payment for medical expenses, pain, suffering and other damages.
There are more Connecticut laws that apply to dangerous dogs. For example, statute § 22-327 explains the powers and duties of animal control officers. There’s also statute § 22-349a, which provides guidelines for ordering a dog into confinement, restraint or euthanization.
