Table of Contents
Introduction
As a dog owner, it is important to understand the laws that govern your responsibilities related to your pet. In case of a dog attack, not only can the victim file a lawsuit against you, but you may also face criminal charges. Moreover, you may face considerable financial consequences in terms of medical bills, damages, and penalties. In New Mexico, there are specific laws that protect both dogs and people involved in dog attacks and bite incidents.
Liability for dog attacks
In New Mexico, the dog owner is strictly liable for any injuries resulting from a dog attack. This means that the owner is responsible for damages regardless of whether or not the owner knew the dog had dangerous tendencies. Therefore, as a dog owner, you must take visible measures to ensure that your dog is under control at all times and avoid any situation where your dog could potentially harm someone.
Defining “dangerous dogs”
A “dangerous dog” in New Mexico is defined as a dog that has caused injury or death to a person or animal without provocation. If a dog is determined to be dangerous, it must be muzzled and restrained when in public. The owner is required to post a visible sign stating that the dog is dangerous, and they must hold a minimum of $100,000 of liability insurance.
Reporting dog bites
In the case of a dog bite, both the owner of the dog and the victim are required to report the incident to the local animal control center or police department. If the victim is seriously injured or dies, the police must also be notified. If the dog has not been vaccinated for rabies or there is a possibility of infection, the dog will be quarantined for a period of ten days.
Penalties for owners of aggressive dogs
If a dog has bitten or attacked someone, the owner is required to take steps to prevent future incidents. In some cases, the dog may be declared “vicious,” and the owner may be required to have the dog euthanized. If the owner knew that the dog was dangerous and did nothing to prevent an attack, the owner may face criminal charges. Depending on the circumstances, the owner may face fines, community service, and even jail time.
Conclusion
Keeping your dog under control is not only a matter of safety for other people and animals, but it is also crucial to avoid legal and financial problems. Understanding the laws related to dog attacks and bites in New Mexico can help you be a responsible pet owner and avoid any legal consequences. It is essential to recognize and address any signs of aggression in your dog, and to ensure that they are properly socialized and trained to coexist with others in public spaces.