Legal Question in Civil Litigation in Texas

my dog got out of my back yard and attacked a neighbors cat. A third neighbor called the emergency vet and took the cat to get treated. the cat owner is now asking me to pay the $1200 vet bill. I offered $500. I don't feel I am responsible for the entire bill since our city does have a leash law and what responsibility does the third neighbor have?


Asked on 5/26/10, 2:39 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

Mark Dunn Mark D. Dunn

$1200 for a cat? That's ridiculous. I doubt that a jury would give somebody a $1200 judgment for an injured cat when 10% of all Americans can't even find a job.

Your offer of $500 is very generous. I suggest that you write a letter to the neighbor - DON'T DO THIS BY TELEPHONE - keep a copy of the letter:

Dear Ms. Catlover,

I regret what happened to your cat. I didn't see the incident and don't know what happened, and don't believe I am responsible in any way. However, to the extent that my dog could have been involved, I'd like to offer to pay $500 toward your cat's veterinary bill. I'll leave this offer open until , and if you haven't accepted it by then, it will expire.

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Answered on 5/27/10, 10:51 am


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