Vermont Dog Bite Laws

Vermont has no general dog bite statute, so most claims are decided under common-law rules developed by the courts.

Vermont dog bite law at a glance

What Vermont law says

• Vermont has no strict liability dog bite statute (MSU, Justia).
• Owners pay double damages when their dog worries, wounds or kills sheep (3748).

Strict liability vs. the one-bite rule

Without a dog bite statute, claims follow the common law. Under the "one-bite" rule, an owner is liable if they knew or had reason to know the dog had dangerous tendencies. A victim can also argue negligence, for example that the owner broke a leash ordinance or failed to control the dog.

Dangerous dog rules in Vermont

• After a bite off the owner's premises that needs medical attention, the victim may complain to the town; a hearing is held within 7 days (20 V.S.A. 3546).
• If the dog bit without provocation, the town may order humane destruction, muzzling, chaining or confinement.
• Civil penalties up to $500 per violation apply (3550).

Deadline to file a claim

Justia's 50-state survey lists 3 years as the general personal injury deadline (statute of limitations) in Vermont. The clock usually starts on the day of the bite. Different deadlines can apply to claims against a government agency or on behalf of a child, so confirm the deadline for your situation with a licensed attorney.

What to do after a dog bite

1. Get medical care, even for a small puncture; bites can become infected.
2. Get the owner's name, contact details and the dog's rabies vaccination status.
3. Report the bite to local animal control or the health department; many places require it so the dog can be observed for rabies.
4. Photograph the injuries and the location, and write down witness names.
5. Keep medical bills and records of missed work, and talk to an attorney before signing anything from an insurer.

If you own a dog that has bitten someone, follow any confinement order from animal control, keep the dog's rabies vaccination current, and consider working with a trainer or behaviorist. Leash rules are covered in Vermont leash laws.

Sources

1. Michigan State University Animal Legal & Historical Center: Vermont dog laws
2. Justia: Dog bite laws, 50-state survey
3. Michigan State University Animal Legal & Historical Center: Dog bite strict liability statutes