Overly Friendly Dog Injuries

Dogs are becoming a bigger part of everyday life in America. They are showing up more often as “therapy” animals on planes, making the rounds in hospitals, and even getting special treatment at coffee shops. Many of these beloved pets are subject to little control by their owners, who see no harm in letting their dogs run free. However, just because a dog is not aggressive does not mean it cannot cause harm or injury to another person, especially a child.

“Charmed” actress Rose McGowan is being sued for injuries allegedly caused by her foster dog. McGowan was out of town while her dog walker took “Mrs. Noodle” for a walk. Her Hollywood Hills neighbor, 85-year-old Elna Ebner, was also out for a walk with her daughter, when she claims a large dog jumped up on her, knocking her to the ground. Ebner says she has suffered severe brain injuries as a result of the accident.

McGowan says she is not liable for the woman’s injuries, which include a reported need for 24-hour care. McGowan told the celebrity gossip website TMZ that that accident was unfortunate, but that she is not responsible. “The woman was standing on the hill’s 65% incline,” said McGowan. “Do I wish this tiny elderly woman hadn’t stopped to talk to my foster dog? Yes. Did it happen? Yes. Am I responsible? No.”

According to McGowan, Mrs. Noodle is a large, mixed breed dog, but she is “terribly gentle.” That may come as little comfort to Elna Ebner. The injured woman stands 4’7”, and claims the dog jumped up on her, putting its paws on her knees, knocking her back, hitting her skull on the ground. She is now seeking a multi-million dollar lawsuit for her injuries.

In a similar case, a New York woman claims she is now confined to a wheelchair after a dog who jumped knocked her over. 79-year-old Dorit Greenspoon was walking to the post office when another woman was passing by with her large Irish Wolfhound. The dog knocked Greenspoon over, causing her to fracture her pelvis in four places.

Instead of helping the injured woman, the dog owner fled the scene. Months later, the same woman was spotted by a friend of Greenspoon, walking the same Irish Wolfhound. The friend followed the dog and owner, which led to her identification. The dog owner turned out to be Susan Roth, who is now facing a civil lawsuit for the injuries caused by her dog.

Children are also susceptible to out-of-control dog injuries. Last month, a Dalmatian ran away from its owner in a park, and over to a group of children. The excited, but unleashed dog jumped up on the children, causing scratches and frightening the children. The dog and owner left before police arrived. They believe the dog to have been involved in similar incidents in the past, and are looking to speak with the dog’s owner.

If you or a loved one has been injured by an overly friendly, or an overly aggressive dog, the Gilman & Bedigian team of experienced attorneys is fully equipped to handle your personal injury claim. We will make sure you are compensated for any medical treatment, pain, and suffering related to your injuries. We have been fighting for injury victims for decades, with a focus on getting you compensation, so you can get better and move forward with your life.