Once the naming of laws had significance and made them unique. Usually it was after the victim of a horrific crime. But now every law has a name! Enough!
As respects Dog Insurance, Good training, good care and a watchful eye are what is needed! Not a bureaucracy and additional cost to law abiding folk. I’m 42 years old and never was bitten by any animal.
Have we rounded up all the unlicensed and uninsured drivers in NY Yet? What about illegal hand guns and drugs?
The nicest/kindest dogs can be trained to be aggresive.
Why was this child permitted to get near any dog? Where were his parents?
I have found way to many parents are not teaching their children basic common sense. DO NOT GO NEAR DOGS YOU DON’T KNOW!!!!! How many parents teach their kids this rule or any other of the common sense rules.
Let’s look at the real problem. Who thinks up these possible laws. Do we not have problems beyond this that need serious attention.
I’ve been in the retail insurance business for 29 years now, and I’ve seen many dogs owned by my insureds who were the nicest, tamest, sweetest things you could imagine. That is, until they bit somone. There are times when dogs misenterpret situations or actions and they will bite or jump up on someone, even when they are not doing it in anger, and may cause injury. By creating a separate insurance policy, homeowners companies may become more willing to write homeowners policies, and the owners of dogs, especially the breeds that are historically more likely to cause injury, will be the ones bearing more of the burden of this exposure.
I will be surprised if this passes. Not that I don’t agree that dog owners should carry Liability Insurance, but I just do not know if making it a law for licensing will fly. What about cats and other animals? I think care needs to be taken by owners as well as other people to keep dangerous dogs away from people. Parents also need to teach children to be careful around pets.
The owners of the problem dogs (doesn’t matter breed) won’t be the ones buying the insurance – look how many are not even licensed and that law has been around how long?
How much for my 3 kid aggressive Chihuahuas? Kids attempt to grab, pack barks, kids run, the chase is on. Scared Chi will bite small kids. Parent training is needed!
Last time I saw a dog, it had four legs and could move quite freely on its own. Perhaps Ms. Adams should advocate parents teaching their children to run faster.
I must say first that i am sorry for what happened to Elijah, it was a terrible thing. Bu ti must say that this bill should not be passed, There are many people who have a number of dogs, like myself i have 8, what this bill will do if passed is have many owners give up their dogs to the shelters because they cannot afford the insurance, now what will this do, not only hurt the people who love their animals so much, but it will also crowd all the shelters and millions or should i say billions will be put to death. There is such a thing called SOCIAL SERVICES which helps people who cannot afford insurance for themselves, If Elijah did not have any insurance or any dog bite for that matter, i am sure they can get help from the state. My breed is Rottweilers, all of my dogs are Canine Good Citizens, Temperment tested and also most important THERAPY DOGS, my dogs go into hospitals to make sick people happy, make a child who hasn’t spoke for some time utter some words. I think this bill will cause more problems for the pets and their owners, especially the owners that care, the ones that don’t won’t get the insurance to begin with, and they will be the ones to get away with it by hiding their dogs in their homes. I hope many people will stand against this LAW, there is such a thing as a court system, it may not be perfect but this is the place to get help for compensation on medical bills from the careless person who let their dog bite a child or an adult.
I agree with Nancy. This law would probably not solve the problem as “problem” owners would not buy the required insurance. Also, it is very subjective. Typical”problem breeds” such as german shepards, rottweilers, pit bulls, etc may never bite yet they get all of the blame and their owners would be required to carry insurance. Small dogs also bite, probably more frequently too. I understand the damage would be greater with a large dog but why do we have to single out a particular breed and charge more for one than another?
I can just see it now- underwritingthe liability on a dog. They can set up various rate classes, by breed, weight, and model year! The dog would have to wear a mini-license plate around it’s neck. Oh yes, I forgot to mention the garage/living location of the dog. And what about other household animals- gerbels, hamsters, guina pigs etc.. How about the snakes people keep, alligators and more.
I know, CNA can write the insurance as it will then give them another class of business to retir from in a year or so.
This would never happen here. In San Francisco the dogs would have to buy the insurance themselves, since there are no “dog owners” to be held liable. In SF there are only “pet caregivers”.
Sandy,
I also have a chihuahua (tea cup 4 1/2 lbs) I also have a 60 lb dobbie mix. Guess which one bit me last evening – luckily he is older and only has a few of his teeth. Before these 2 I had a rotweiler/shepherd mix – all are great dogs – even the chi. When we spend time in the back yard, the dobbie covers 20 times as much ground running as does the chi. Does that mean I get a pleasure rate for the chi and a distant commute rate for the dobbie?
I’m guessing that Assemblyman Rivera is not, nor ever has been, a dog owner. Were he one, he would be aware that some Dobermans and Rottweilers are the nicest and, having been properly trained, the best behaved animals, although they are considered “high risk” breeds. He would also know that some “cutesy” breeds like terriers and toy poodles can be some of the most aggressive little biters. What’s the difference? The owners. There are responsible and irresponsible pet owners, just as there are responsible and irresponsible parents.
Regarding the proposal “would permit legal action”, if there’s anything PREVENTING legal action here in NY state, I don’t know what it is.
Also, the “research behind the bill” doesn’t indicate whether the “37% increase in the last 10 years” is reflecting NY state specific numbers or a nationwide increase. And of course, the medical treatment was probably at an emergency room, since
they probably frequently occur on weekends when the doctors offices are closed, or the people affected panic. Most people who break a bone do not proceed to their doctors office first but to the emergency room.
PS – I just adopted my second rescue toy poodle. Licensed, spayed, immunized and in the process of being trained properly. There are a lot of us out here “cleaning up” after the people who buy something cute and four months later don’t want to deal with the responsibility.
Gary is right-how many new employees to administer this program, what will it ultimately cost tax payers, etc. While the tragedy that serves as a catalyst for it shouldn’t have happened, the answer isn’t more laws that won’t be enforced. Besides, I thought you got one free bite on your homeowner’s coverage (I handle surety, so if I’m wrong, I’m not a hazard to the public!).
Posted By: gARY
Comment:
More Bureaucratic B.S. Some of these politicians should step into the REAL world once in a while
It is not always the pet owners what about the parents?? the children?? There is to much irresponsibility in this world where is the common sense? Everyone thinks pet owners or breed when they hear dog bite but this is not always the case…although most states legally make it that way. And so hear we go again…why can’t the courts look at the reason for the bite and assess damages as necessary not always blame the owner/breed. Alot of bites could be prevented by taking precautions and using common sense on both sides. I’m sorry about Elijah but lets as a whole become more responsible and not try and blame everyone else. There has to be a better way.
This is the most ridiculous thing I have ever heard. If an animal is going to bite & medical expenses are going to incur, putting another law in force, or adding extra insurance expense burden to a homeowner is not going to prevent this.
I have been in the insurance business for over 30 years. This is definately something I would NOT want to burden my insureds with. I am also a homeowner and a pet owner. Any breed of dog can be taught to be aggressive and any breed that is raised with kindness can be a wonderful family pet. A dog that wonders freely, roams the streets or is a stray, will not have anyone in charge of them that will follow the laws set forth by yet another lawmaker. Further more, if someone is going to be bit by an animal, whether there is an insurance policy in force or not, they will have to seek medical attention. Someone will have to explain to me how such a law to insurance dogs will cut down on medical expense.
I was at one time, bitten by a dog myself. I have to tell you that I accepted the responsibility of my own actions. If you or your child is going to approach an animal that is unknown to you, then you have to accept what may or may not happen. No law, insurance policy, or law maker can prevent poor judgement, or a lack of responsibility.
This law serves no purpose except to add burden to the responsible homeowner, or dog owner.
How many fees does the State of New York need? What about the thousands of dog owners that have Maltese, Yorkies, etc? Is he concerned about attacks by them. Absurd!
“When uninsured dogs are outlawed, only outlaws will have uninsured dogs. ” In other words, more laws only hurt those responsible enough to follow them. The dog owner in question had already broken an existing law by having a dangerous animal unrestrained. Further, any homeowner’s policy will already provide coverage for this, as would a renter’s policy if properly endorsed.
Does everyone in NY smoke pot or just the legislators?
Once again those responsible will not be carrying this burden. Only those who will follow the law will take this seriously. We have way too many laws in NYS and this one is ridiculous! I feel very sorry for any child or those who are bitten by any animal but the responsibility lies with the child who doesn’t listen and the Parents who do not care to supervise, teach or parent their children. Don’t penalize the majority who are good homeowners and petowners. Penalize those who are at fault including Parents and children who shouldn’t be doing what is wrong.
I was bitten by my neighbor’s dog, not at my own fault. They allowed the dog to wander the streets day & night. Never really attending to the dogs needs, except when they felt like it. The dog was aggressive to all on the block – even cornered a neighbor in her car. They never even said they were sorry – they were sued. They stopped letting the dog wander around. Point made –
The law proposed would not change any of the above, I am afraid to say. They would still have letthe dog wander – I would still have been bitten, and they would not manage the situation. The bill will not do a thing.
GO out & round up all the dogs that are left to raom neighborhoods day in & out & get them to a rescue where they can be treated better and learn to behave appropriately.
I have to STRONGLY disagree with this law. As a breeder that owns 8 beeding stock dogs I Incur many costs, for example; AKC fees, Vet costs, Licence fees, food, grooming supplies, advertising, etc… Now let’s add an additional fee for each dog of around $100.00! Why do we pay home owners insurance and medical insurance? I will say my heart goes out to children and adults that are attacked by dogs. But, this comes from the irresposibility of some pet owners…. NOT ALL PET OWNERS! My dogs are kept inside or in a kennel and just for extra protection my yard is fenced. Why should I be punished for the irresponsibility of others??? I agree something needs to be done but, this law is unfair! Why not impose stiffer fines, jail time etc. for the pet owners that don’t keep their dog leashed or tied? I hope something good comes from this but, I sincerely hope it’s a fair solution!
Our budget is late for the 20th year in a row, municipalities are struggling to pay for state mandates, more people are moving out of the state due to the high cost of living and our legislators are spending time on bills such as this???
This bill will not solve the problem. It will add financial burdens to dog owners on fixed incomes who may be forced to give up a beloved companion animal. Fewer people will license dogs to avoid being in the state data base and flagged for the required insurance. Mr. Rivera claims 80% of dogs in NYC are not licensed. People who don’t license dogs won’t get insurance.
By the way, this bill was reviewed in the state INSURANCE COMMITTEE before it reached the assembly floor. What does that tell you????? Does anyone else hear the sounds of the insurance companies licking their chops?
First, I feel that waht happened to Elijah is real sad; but passing a bill requiring every dog owner to carry “dog liability insurance” is not going to stop those negligent parents to not care for their children. I grew up with dogs & cats all of my life (I am 55 years old) and so did my children. I knew it was my responsibility to teach my children that other “doggies” were not like ours and they were not allowed to touch or go near any other dog no matter if it was a puppy or a docile dog. We need to understand that dogs, even the docile ones, are animals and if they feel threaten, in pain or have learned to be agressive, they will bite and it is a PARENT who is RESPONSIBLE to teach this to their children. I have seen children with their parents next to them go to a fence and stick their hands into the fence to pet or play with a dog, and those parents do absolutely nothing about it. And you can say nothing to them because they tell you right at your face that “is none of your business what their children do”.
In short, we don’t need another burden only because we have a dog and we care for them. We don’t need a bill to caryy dog liability insurance. There are other things much more important here in New York City (& State) that need to be taken care of not wether you have dog liablity insurance or not.
MAKE IT A LAW THAT YOU WILL FINE THOSE PARENTS THAT ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR THEIR CHILDREN’S BEHAVIOR.
I sympathize with the family but requiring insurance will not bring the boy back nor prevent a similar occurance in the future. If this is the best solution our politicains can come up with, they should all be impeached. Maybe we need a law requiring all politicains carry a special insurance policy that they pay for themselves to cover them when they pass dumb laws.
An insurance policy for pet owners is not the answer! However, a mandatory prision sentence for the pet owners and death for the dog is. A child is not accountable for his or her actions until the age of seven and therefore, the parents should be held responsible, depending on the circumstances. Since the circumstances leading up to the event are not published in this article we shouldn’t judge the parents without all of the facts.
Shame on you, Peter Rivera. Isn’t your job as assemblyman to reopresent your constituents and uphold the Constitution of the Unites States? Do you even know what liberty for all means? Perhaps we need someone to fill your shoes come the next election.
Peter Rivera is an ex-cop. Is it any wonder that he thinks the way he does? We should elect people with brains to the legislature, not guys who think with their fists.
Actually, according to the New York State Assembly’s Web site (http://assembly.state.ny.us/leg/?bn=A10169), the bill has been pending in the Agriculture Committee since it was introduced on March 10.
Maybe, State Assemblyman Peter M. Rivera is an former insurance agent trying to drum up business for the insurance industry in which he plans to go back to. Hey Pete, why don’t you require all parents to have liability insurance on their children since there are far more deaths and injuries caused by violence due to children than dogs. Elected officials need to have an agency relationship with their constituents and make sure this is the will of those who he/she represents and not his personal opinion. Soon, the average person will not be able to afford owning a dog. Dogs will only be for the rich. Thanks mental midget!
What about the dangerous HUMANS. Can we orange tab them too? Can we post signs at there residence, Home of Murder, Rapist, Drug dealer, DANGEROUS HUMAN LIVES HERE.
It’s not the RESPONSIBLE dog owner that is the problem, its the IRESPONSIBLE dog owners, the back yard breeders, the people that have something to hide that is the problem.
Laws like this only serve to punish the responsible dog owners. Owners who take the time and money to train their dogs, bring them to the vet regularly, and register them with the city.
It is the IRRESPONSIBLE dog owner that causes all the grief by neglecting and abusing their dogs and “training” them, through this abuse, to hurt people/children. Punish these neglectful and irresponsible acts but do not punish the valued family pets.
This law is absolutely ridiculious! I work in the insurance industry! This type of insurance is going to cost to much because the insurer’s do not know what to expect, so the rates will be high! I have a Boxer and even though data on them says they are good with children (he is with my son!), I still make sure I tell people, please be careful, come up to him slowly, let him smell you first, etc…RESPONSIBLITY first! Not new laws which are going to create a mess for good honest, responsible people who love their dogs! We are losing to many people from this state and I might be next with all the taxes and insurance costs and laws! What to the meaning of FREEDOM?
Well, it’s good to see you all love animals more than humans. Frankly, while the legislator may be extreme he is on the right path.
The dog who attacked my daughter and put her in emergency room is allowed to live even after 3 dog bites. She has always been scared of dogs, avoids them. All witnesses say she was minding her own business while walking on sidewalk. (No, it wasn’t a stupid human trick.)
The Dog lives but now we have to drive her to bus stop, live with the scar, and other kids in the neighborhood are at risk. At the least, such a law would give some “teeth” to capital punishment for bad dogs.
My heart feels for Elijah’s Family, but not all dogs are dangerous.
Owning a dog is as american as apple pie. I have 2 doberman’s and they are as gentle as can be. They would sooner urinate on your feet than bit you. As a responsible dog owner I make sure that my dogs are licensed and vet check yearly and vaccinated. As a responsible dog owner I have spent a lot of money taking my dogs to obedience class and they have blue ribbions to prove it. I don’t have children; however, my dogs are my children. Six years ago when I had to put my 14 year old doberman to sleep
it almost killed me. For a dog owner that is the worst thing they’ll ever have to do. I’m a nurse and I have never had to care for a inpatient that had been bitten by a dog. However, we admit and treat patients all the time for cat bits. By passing Elija’s law there will be an overwhelming amount of dog owner who will no longer be able to afford to own a dog. This will place an increased burdened on the SPCA and local pounds. Dogs will be abandoned and allowed to run and we will have problems with farrel dog like we do farrel cats. Who’s going to pay to clean up that mess. Dog’s are pack animals and allowed to run this could become and even greater problem.
As a pack they may begin killing livestock to survive. I know that I speak for dog owners all over. It would be less painful to stab me throught the heart as to take my dogs away. If this proposal is passed I will no longer be able to afford to keep my dogs. I live for my dogs without them life wouldn’t be worth living. There has to be a better solution to this problem and not at the expense of Man’s Best Friend.
Yet another absurd, unnecessary law for insurance companies to cash in on in this hyper-litigous society. This is as unfair as it gets. What if I’ve had my dog for several years and he has never shown any aggressive tendencies or hurt anyone in any way? Is it fair for me and others with gentle, well-behaved animals like mine, to have to pay more monthly premiums for yet another insurance policy that I will never need? It would be interesting to see who is behind Rivera in this plan to bilk responsible dog owner’s out of more hard earned money. No doubt the big insurance companies are foaming at the mouth for this one. I’ve got an idea. Why not have teenager liability insurance while we’re at it. I’ve met plenty of irresponsible teens of irresponsible parents out there a lot more dangerous than my and most other peoples’ dogs. Heck, most accidents on the road are caused by 16, 17 and 18 year old teens: “The risk of crash involvement per mile driven among 16-19 years-old is 4 times the risk among older drivers. Risk is highest at age 16.” (from Insurance Institute for Highway Safety website) Teens get into more fights, they vandalize property more often, and they join violent gangs, so why not make parents have liability insurance for their teens? See the absurdity folks?
I am very sorry for what happened to your daughter, and the dog that did it should be put down. But forcing liability insurance on all dog owners isn’t necessarily going to get that dog or any other dog put down. Unfortunately, you are also making a classic logical error when you take your isolated bad experience with one dog, and apply that to every dog and dog owner. It’s understandable given what happened to your daughter, but your sweeping judgment of dog’s and dog owners is simply not based in fact or logic and that makes it invalid. I and most other dog owner’s do not “love dogs more than humans” as you apparently believe. Most dog owners are responsible, caring people who go out of there way to make sure their dog is licensed, well-behaved and safe. Punishing all dog owners, the vast majority of whom are respoonsible, because of the acts of a minority of irresponsible morons who cannot handle their animals is simply unfair and will not make anyone safer from these idiots and their dangerous dogs. It certainly won’t change what happened to your daughter.
A few years ago, I had a standard Poodle. He was an adorable boy, great with our family. He would not tolerate visitors to the house, and on several occasions chased visiting children.
He bit a person once. A neighbor came into our yard with a petition in hand and the dog barked at him, then circled behind and bit his calf. No charges were pressed and we muzzled him from then on.
This dog went through obedience classes. This dog was loved. This dog was kept inside the house. This dog was walked on a leash. We had him for 2 1/2 years before deciding that he wasn’t getting any better.
The final straw came when Simon attacked our other dog, with no provocation.
After much soul-searching, I took Simon to the vet and put him down, and it was one of the hardest things I’ve done in my life. I held him as he slipped away. After doing my best for this dog, I had decided that he wasn’t able to reform and we were unwilling to continue to live this way. I still wonder if it was the right thing.
This law is not for ME. It’s probably not for you, either, since by reading this online forum, you are probably a person with some education and middle class responsibilities.
So I wonder, who is this law for?
The problem, as I perceive it, is this. Dogs, when untrained and unmanaged, can be a nuisance or even become dangerous. People who keep dogs need to understand this responsibility. Sadly, many people do not, as evidenced by the number of dogs in the 1 year old range that are sent to shelters every year to be destroyed.
I don’t see this insurance scheme as a realistic solution to the problem.
The insurance approach builds a risk pool and protects the insurance companies while not fixing the problem. Responsible dog owners will be funding their own punishment under this law, while the irresponsible parties go without insurance, without license, without cares.
If you have a problem dog, it’s not hard to find out. Your neighbors probably know already. Ask them if you’re not sure. The dog warden may have an opinion too, especially if he’s picked up your dog as a stray a few times. Rather than punishing all dog owners and creating paperwork, why not just enforce the laws that exist regarding loose or agressive dogs? Rather than establishing complex actuarial classifications of a dog breed’s propensity to bite, why not just punish the biters and their owners?
Does anyone seriously think that the unlicensed, unmanaged dogs in New York City pose the same risk as my two licensed, trained, vaccinated dogs in their chain link fenced back yard 300 mile away upstate?
I think this law is a bad idea because it does not solve the problem, and it creates new problems.
I love this law. I have been waiting for a law like this for a long time. Dogs are vicious by nature. They have teeth and will bite. We try to domesticate them and still we have to know that they are wild by nature. Just like a snake, Alligator, or Lion. Even after being trained they can attack at any given moment. And a child will be a child. Please, can you really teach a 1 to 3 year old to stay away from dogs. This law has been needed for a long time. I live in Houston and I wish it would come to Texas soon !!!!!
Houston, It’s ignorance like yours that allows foolish laws like this to pass and costs the rest of us more freedom every day in this country. The depth of your ignorance with regard to canines is brethtaking and all should take it into account when considering your completely ill-informed and unreasonable opinion.
NYC continues to come up with more scams to increase revenues. Mandatory liability insurance for dog owners is plain nuts! Why not use the nyc dog licensing fees to create a fund like no fault auto insurance. That would solve the problem! Let’s face it, the nyc lic. fees are most probably used to pay totally unnecessary salaries. Why not put this money to good use. The actual impact of this law would be devastating. First and foremost many more adoptable dogs would fail to get homes and be euthanized because many people can not afford the extra costs. This would be horrendous. Many nyc dog owners, especially the elderly and those living on fixed incomes would be unable to keep their dogs. The elderly would suffer immensly. Many of their dogs are the ONLY companions they have left.It’s disgusting!
Don’t punish the innocent. Punish the dog owners who either by neglect or ignorance continue to own dogs or other animals without a clue as to what a responsibility it is. Instead of mandatory dog insurance, have would-be owners take educational classes on the different aspects of pet ownership. If a person is not interested, they don’t get the privilege of owning a pet. There are many loving pet owners who cringe whenever they see the abuse pets receive in the hands of the ignorant or neglectful. Educate the interested and punish those who wantonly abuse, abandon and mistreat these animals. As an insurance agent, I’ve personally seen “mean” chihuahuas and “gentle” pit bulls. It would be more than a tragedy to implement this legislation.
I feel very bad for the child and this was probally a last straw for someone. I think this could just turn into another revenue tool for the state. What happens to the people that can not afford the insurance that have pets? Where are they all going to go? What happens if you own mulitple pets?
Has this law passed , and who should i contact to get rid of it I think that this is just another way for the state and insurance companies to collect revanue .I thought part of the license fee was for just this sort of thing .
I am strongly in favor of this bill as myself and my boss were attacked and mauled by a pit bull at our place of employment. Not only are we still going to court over this viscious attack but the day we were attacked the owner of the dog was given back her dog. I was bitten on my leg and miraculously was able to free myself from his death grip, however, my boss wasn’t that lucky. He was mauled and bitten several times. He is a 60+ year old man who was unable to defend himself. He was knocked down to the ground and bitten on both legs, hands, and his stomach was ripped apart. The physical scars are permanent as is the emotional scars that we will both have to live with for the rest of our lives. If the owners of the dog are not liable than who is?? Who takes this responsibility of owning a viscious dog?? The laws in NY need to be changed and neglagent dog owners need to be help responsible..I support this bill and pray that it will become a state law
We must first must understand, that people are not going to give-up their pets, for no one. They will let the insurance companies take their homeowners insurance first.We have a device that will help keep our children, the general public safe and save the insurance companies millions in law suite concerning vicious dog attack injuries.This is the alternative for the insurance. We have the attention of the News Media and city Officials. We just reciecved a letter from The Office Of Governor, Arnold Schwarzenegger. This system is light weight and will not harm the dog in any manner. One of the great features hi-tech system,is the dog can drink water while wearing the system. Thank you.
We are the person that worte about the system, that will help control dog attacks on our children in the home and the general public and will help the homeowners
in getting back their homerowners insurance
because of the type of dog the have. The Canine Muzzle Release System/ECR; WILL NOT HARM THE DOG. THIS SYSTEM SAVES LIVES E-mail us at ViciousDogSol@aol.com Or JJIREHETWInc628@AOL.COM
This bill is insane as it is a form of collective punishment. I have raised Bouvier Des Flanders for 7+ years and they would most likely be high on the list and cost me a fortune in insurance adding a silly fee to me a responsible dog owner.
What needs to be realized here is a few facts.Most dogs reflect their owners. I will not say that there are a few dogs out there that are naturally aggressive but for the most part the responsibility is with each individual owner.Liability insurance is not the answer.One of the main problems with our society is the lack of responsability.In Canada per capita there are more guns than in the U.S.A. but far less gun related crime.Gun ownership there is much more controlled and requires more training.I believe if you are going to change laws concerning dog ownership it should be towards responsibility rather than liability.A person in a rental apartment in an overcrowded area should not be allowed to own a large breed dog as it makes no sense.A large breed active dog needs room to roam.It is a matter of responsability may I state for the 20th time.People should be screened prior to dog ownership especially of hard temperment dogs such as some terrier breeds,guard breeds,working breeds and others.Bouviers have a medium hard temperment and can be very dominant of which I know with experience.I have spent weeks months and years in training of my dogs as my female can be dominate especialy with young children as she is trying to herd them.
I can fully try to understand and only imagine how horrifing, painful, traumatizing, and so on and so on as to how it would feel to be mauled by a dog; especialy one that happens to be a breed that has the physical power to “maul!” I won’t pretend that certain dogs are not scary. Howewver, at the same time that you may have had a life threatening encounter with a “vicious dog,” that “same” dog is my best friend; therapist to my invalid father; dog trainer to my dog fearul friends; and inspirator to my elderly neighbors. My Rottwieller/pit/shephard/ (who knows what mix she really is) was on death row when i rescued her. She was a wild girl… i called her “CRAZY LADY!!!” But she never once harmed anyone, she changed people’s lives through her love and unconditional selflessness and altruism. Please understand that all creatures, are only as much of a product of their enviroment as others allow them to be. Labeling, in general, is the launch of assumption, ignorance… discrimination. I hope you can find it in your heart to be open to all breeds, classes, colors, sexes, preferences, etc. No one, should be mauled by an animal, but the population that should be targeted within this real issue, is the irresponsible dog owners… especially the people who breed and perpetuate dog fighting.. That’s all for now, i have much more if anyone feels like responding!! I only wish the best for all :)
I AM ELIJAH’S STEPDAD AND FOR THOSE WHO DONT KNOW ELIJAH WAS JUST WALKING DOWN TO THE CORNER TO GRAB A CAB WITH HIS MOM, THE DOG GOT OUT FROM HIS LEASH AND JUMPED A FENCE AND ATTACKED ELIJAH FROM BEHIND …THEY NEVER SAW THE DOG COMING.THANK GOD ELIJAH IS RECOVERING,AND THANK GOD ONE OF THE MANY BILLS WILL BE SIGNED BY GOV. PATAKI …
First of all, I have to say that I am terribly sorry for what happened to Mr Munoz’s nephew. For anyone to be injured in ANY kind of attack, is horrible. This legislation however is not the answer. Responsible owners are. Puppymill breeders are. Elijah is absolutely innocent.
When a human attack’s or kills another, they are the one to be held responsible. It isn’t every other human. Dogs of ANY breed should not be penalized for the behavior of another dog. It does not make sense! All this bill will do is make law suits easier and pay a higher award.
I too used to be afraid of Rottweilers – then I met one and realized what loving, intelligent animals they are! I had to have one and now I have a two year old male that I raised from a puppy. He has been to obedience class and has been well socialized. I am a responsible dog owner and I would be devastated if I had to lose Baron because I could not afford the insurance. I can barely afford my car, life and home owners as it is. Please do not spread the pain.
Kingstone Insurance Company an admitted New York Company writes stand alone canine legal liability insurance in New York. For more information go to our website at kingstoneinsurance.com
Once the naming of laws had significance and made them unique. Usually it was after the victim of a horrific crime. But now every law has a name! Enough!
As respects Dog Insurance, Good training, good care and a watchful eye are what is needed! Not a bureaucracy and additional cost to law abiding folk. I’m 42 years old and never was bitten by any animal.
Have we rounded up all the unlicensed and uninsured drivers in NY Yet? What about illegal hand guns and drugs?
The nicest/kindest dogs can be trained to be aggresive.
Why was this child permitted to get near any dog? Where were his parents?
I have found way to many parents are not teaching their children basic common sense. DO NOT GO NEAR DOGS YOU DON’T KNOW!!!!! How many parents teach their kids this rule or any other of the common sense rules.
Let’s look at the real problem. Who thinks up these possible laws. Do we not have problems beyond this that need serious attention.
The people whose dogs are a problem are not going to obey this law.
I’ve been in the retail insurance business for 29 years now, and I’ve seen many dogs owned by my insureds who were the nicest, tamest, sweetest things you could imagine. That is, until they bit somone. There are times when dogs misenterpret situations or actions and they will bite or jump up on someone, even when they are not doing it in anger, and may cause injury. By creating a separate insurance policy, homeowners companies may become more willing to write homeowners policies, and the owners of dogs, especially the breeds that are historically more likely to cause injury, will be the ones bearing more of the burden of this exposure.
I will be surprised if this passes. Not that I don’t agree that dog owners should carry Liability Insurance, but I just do not know if making it a law for licensing will fly. What about cats and other animals? I think care needs to be taken by owners as well as other people to keep dangerous dogs away from people. Parents also need to teach children to be careful around pets.
Sure, government can solve all life’s problems.
Mandatory auto liability insurance has solved the problem of bad drivers, hasn’t it?
The owners of the problem dogs (doesn’t matter breed) won’t be the ones buying the insurance – look how many are not even licensed and that law has been around how long?
How much for my 3 kid aggressive Chihuahuas? Kids attempt to grab, pack barks, kids run, the chase is on. Scared Chi will bite small kids. Parent training is needed!
Last time I saw a dog, it had four legs and could move quite freely on its own. Perhaps Ms. Adams should advocate parents teaching their children to run faster.
More Bureaucratic B.S. Some of these politicians should step into the REAL world once in a while
I must say first that i am sorry for what happened to Elijah, it was a terrible thing. Bu ti must say that this bill should not be passed, There are many people who have a number of dogs, like myself i have 8, what this bill will do if passed is have many owners give up their dogs to the shelters because they cannot afford the insurance, now what will this do, not only hurt the people who love their animals so much, but it will also crowd all the shelters and millions or should i say billions will be put to death. There is such a thing called SOCIAL SERVICES which helps people who cannot afford insurance for themselves, If Elijah did not have any insurance or any dog bite for that matter, i am sure they can get help from the state. My breed is Rottweilers, all of my dogs are Canine Good Citizens, Temperment tested and also most important THERAPY DOGS, my dogs go into hospitals to make sick people happy, make a child who hasn’t spoke for some time utter some words. I think this bill will cause more problems for the pets and their owners, especially the owners that care, the ones that don’t won’t get the insurance to begin with, and they will be the ones to get away with it by hiding their dogs in their homes. I hope many people will stand against this LAW, there is such a thing as a court system, it may not be perfect but this is the place to get help for compensation on medical bills from the careless person who let their dog bite a child or an adult.
Ditto Gary’s comments…and where can I get a “Beware of Dangerous Dog” sign for my maltese??
I agree with Nancy. This law would probably not solve the problem as “problem” owners would not buy the required insurance. Also, it is very subjective. Typical”problem breeds” such as german shepards, rottweilers, pit bulls, etc may never bite yet they get all of the blame and their owners would be required to carry insurance. Small dogs also bite, probably more frequently too. I understand the damage would be greater with a large dog but why do we have to single out a particular breed and charge more for one than another?
I can just see it now- underwritingthe liability on a dog. They can set up various rate classes, by breed, weight, and model year! The dog would have to wear a mini-license plate around it’s neck. Oh yes, I forgot to mention the garage/living location of the dog. And what about other household animals- gerbels, hamsters, guina pigs etc.. How about the snakes people keep, alligators and more.
I know, CNA can write the insurance as it will then give them another class of business to retir from in a year or so.
This would never happen here. In San Francisco the dogs would have to buy the insurance themselves, since there are no “dog owners” to be held liable. In SF there are only “pet caregivers”.
Sandy,
I also have a chihuahua (tea cup 4 1/2 lbs) I also have a 60 lb dobbie mix. Guess which one bit me last evening – luckily he is older and only has a few of his teeth. Before these 2 I had a rotweiler/shepherd mix – all are great dogs – even the chi. When we spend time in the back yard, the dobbie covers 20 times as much ground running as does the chi. Does that mean I get a pleasure rate for the chi and a distant commute rate for the dobbie?
I’m guessing that Assemblyman Rivera is not, nor ever has been, a dog owner. Were he one, he would be aware that some Dobermans and Rottweilers are the nicest and, having been properly trained, the best behaved animals, although they are considered “high risk” breeds. He would also know that some “cutesy” breeds like terriers and toy poodles can be some of the most aggressive little biters. What’s the difference? The owners. There are responsible and irresponsible pet owners, just as there are responsible and irresponsible parents.
Regarding the proposal “would permit legal action”, if there’s anything PREVENTING legal action here in NY state, I don’t know what it is.
Also, the “research behind the bill” doesn’t indicate whether the “37% increase in the last 10 years” is reflecting NY state specific numbers or a nationwide increase. And of course, the medical treatment was probably at an emergency room, since
they probably frequently occur on weekends when the doctors offices are closed, or the people affected panic. Most people who break a bone do not proceed to their doctors office first but to the emergency room.
PS – I just adopted my second rescue toy poodle. Licensed, spayed, immunized and in the process of being trained properly. There are a lot of us out here “cleaning up” after the people who buy something cute and four months later don’t want to deal with the responsibility.
Gary is right-how many new employees to administer this program, what will it ultimately cost tax payers, etc. While the tragedy that serves as a catalyst for it shouldn’t have happened, the answer isn’t more laws that won’t be enforced. Besides, I thought you got one free bite on your homeowner’s coverage (I handle surety, so if I’m wrong, I’m not a hazard to the public!).
Posted By: gARY
Comment:
More Bureaucratic B.S. Some of these politicians should step into the REAL world once in a while
It is not always the pet owners what about the parents?? the children?? There is to much irresponsibility in this world where is the common sense? Everyone thinks pet owners or breed when they hear dog bite but this is not always the case…although most states legally make it that way. And so hear we go again…why can’t the courts look at the reason for the bite and assess damages as necessary not always blame the owner/breed. Alot of bites could be prevented by taking precautions and using common sense on both sides. I’m sorry about Elijah but lets as a whole become more responsible and not try and blame everyone else. There has to be a better way.
This is the most ridiculous thing I have ever heard. If an animal is going to bite & medical expenses are going to incur, putting another law in force, or adding extra insurance expense burden to a homeowner is not going to prevent this.
I have been in the insurance business for over 30 years. This is definately something I would NOT want to burden my insureds with. I am also a homeowner and a pet owner. Any breed of dog can be taught to be aggressive and any breed that is raised with kindness can be a wonderful family pet. A dog that wonders freely, roams the streets or is a stray, will not have anyone in charge of them that will follow the laws set forth by yet another lawmaker. Further more, if someone is going to be bit by an animal, whether there is an insurance policy in force or not, they will have to seek medical attention. Someone will have to explain to me how such a law to insurance dogs will cut down on medical expense.
I was at one time, bitten by a dog myself. I have to tell you that I accepted the responsibility of my own actions. If you or your child is going to approach an animal that is unknown to you, then you have to accept what may or may not happen. No law, insurance policy, or law maker can prevent poor judgement, or a lack of responsibility.
This law serves no purpose except to add burden to the responsible homeowner, or dog owner.
How many fees does the State of New York need? What about the thousands of dog owners that have Maltese, Yorkies, etc? Is he concerned about attacks by them. Absurd!
“When uninsured dogs are outlawed, only outlaws will have uninsured dogs. ” In other words, more laws only hurt those responsible enough to follow them. The dog owner in question had already broken an existing law by having a dangerous animal unrestrained. Further, any homeowner’s policy will already provide coverage for this, as would a renter’s policy if properly endorsed.
Does everyone in NY smoke pot or just the legislators?
Once again those responsible will not be carrying this burden. Only those who will follow the law will take this seriously. We have way too many laws in NYS and this one is ridiculous! I feel very sorry for any child or those who are bitten by any animal but the responsibility lies with the child who doesn’t listen and the Parents who do not care to supervise, teach or parent their children. Don’t penalize the majority who are good homeowners and petowners. Penalize those who are at fault including Parents and children who shouldn’t be doing what is wrong.
I was bitten by my neighbor’s dog, not at my own fault. They allowed the dog to wander the streets day & night. Never really attending to the dogs needs, except when they felt like it. The dog was aggressive to all on the block – even cornered a neighbor in her car. They never even said they were sorry – they were sued. They stopped letting the dog wander around. Point made –
The law proposed would not change any of the above, I am afraid to say. They would still have letthe dog wander – I would still have been bitten, and they would not manage the situation. The bill will not do a thing.
GO out & round up all the dogs that are left to raom neighborhoods day in & out & get them to a rescue where they can be treated better and learn to behave appropriately.
The idea is there – but the solution is stupid.
I’ll go with this law, as a dog owner i’m not against on this at all.
I have to STRONGLY disagree with this law. As a breeder that owns 8 beeding stock dogs I Incur many costs, for example; AKC fees, Vet costs, Licence fees, food, grooming supplies, advertising, etc… Now let’s add an additional fee for each dog of around $100.00! Why do we pay home owners insurance and medical insurance? I will say my heart goes out to children and adults that are attacked by dogs. But, this comes from the irresposibility of some pet owners…. NOT ALL PET OWNERS! My dogs are kept inside or in a kennel and just for extra protection my yard is fenced. Why should I be punished for the irresponsibility of others??? I agree something needs to be done but, this law is unfair! Why not impose stiffer fines, jail time etc. for the pet owners that don’t keep their dog leashed or tied? I hope something good comes from this but, I sincerely hope it’s a fair solution!
Our budget is late for the 20th year in a row, municipalities are struggling to pay for state mandates, more people are moving out of the state due to the high cost of living and our legislators are spending time on bills such as this???
This bill will not solve the problem. It will add financial burdens to dog owners on fixed incomes who may be forced to give up a beloved companion animal. Fewer people will license dogs to avoid being in the state data base and flagged for the required insurance. Mr. Rivera claims 80% of dogs in NYC are not licensed. People who don’t license dogs won’t get insurance.
By the way, this bill was reviewed in the state INSURANCE COMMITTEE before it reached the assembly floor. What does that tell you????? Does anyone else hear the sounds of the insurance companies licking their chops?
First, I feel that waht happened to Elijah is real sad; but passing a bill requiring every dog owner to carry “dog liability insurance” is not going to stop those negligent parents to not care for their children. I grew up with dogs & cats all of my life (I am 55 years old) and so did my children. I knew it was my responsibility to teach my children that other “doggies” were not like ours and they were not allowed to touch or go near any other dog no matter if it was a puppy or a docile dog. We need to understand that dogs, even the docile ones, are animals and if they feel threaten, in pain or have learned to be agressive, they will bite and it is a PARENT who is RESPONSIBLE to teach this to their children. I have seen children with their parents next to them go to a fence and stick their hands into the fence to pet or play with a dog, and those parents do absolutely nothing about it. And you can say nothing to them because they tell you right at your face that “is none of your business what their children do”.
In short, we don’t need another burden only because we have a dog and we care for them. We don’t need a bill to caryy dog liability insurance. There are other things much more important here in New York City (& State) that need to be taken care of not wether you have dog liablity insurance or not.
MAKE IT A LAW THAT YOU WILL FINE THOSE PARENTS THAT ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR THEIR CHILDREN’S BEHAVIOR.
I sympathize with the family but requiring insurance will not bring the boy back nor prevent a similar occurance in the future. If this is the best solution our politicains can come up with, they should all be impeached. Maybe we need a law requiring all politicains carry a special insurance policy that they pay for themselves to cover them when they pass dumb laws.
An insurance policy for pet owners is not the answer! However, a mandatory prision sentence for the pet owners and death for the dog is. A child is not accountable for his or her actions until the age of seven and therefore, the parents should be held responsible, depending on the circumstances. Since the circumstances leading up to the event are not published in this article we shouldn’t judge the parents without all of the facts.
Shame on you, Peter Rivera. Isn’t your job as assemblyman to reopresent your constituents and uphold the Constitution of the Unites States? Do you even know what liberty for all means? Perhaps we need someone to fill your shoes come the next election.
Time for Peter Rivera to go!
Time for Peter Rivera to go!
Who pays your salary Peter Rivera? The taxpayers or the unsurance companies?
Who pays your salary Peter Rivera? The taxpayers or the unsurance companies?
Peter Rivera is an ex-cop. Is it any wonder that he thinks the way he does? We should elect people with brains to the legislature, not guys who think with their fists.
Actually, according to the New York State Assembly’s Web site (http://assembly.state.ny.us/leg/?bn=A10169), the bill has been pending in the Agriculture Committee since it was introduced on March 10.
Maybe, State Assemblyman Peter M. Rivera is an former insurance agent trying to drum up business for the insurance industry in which he plans to go back to. Hey Pete, why don’t you require all parents to have liability insurance on their children since there are far more deaths and injuries caused by violence due to children than dogs. Elected officials need to have an agency relationship with their constituents and make sure this is the will of those who he/she represents and not his personal opinion. Soon, the average person will not be able to afford owning a dog. Dogs will only be for the rich. Thanks mental midget!
What about the dangerous HUMANS. Can we orange tab them too? Can we post signs at there residence, Home of Murder, Rapist, Drug dealer, DANGEROUS HUMAN LIVES HERE.
It’s not the RESPONSIBLE dog owner that is the problem, its the IRESPONSIBLE dog owners, the back yard breeders, the people that have something to hide that is the problem.
I hope this does not pass!
Laws like this only serve to punish the responsible dog owners. Owners who take the time and money to train their dogs, bring them to the vet regularly, and register them with the city.
It is the IRRESPONSIBLE dog owner that causes all the grief by neglecting and abusing their dogs and “training” them, through this abuse, to hurt people/children. Punish these neglectful and irresponsible acts but do not punish the valued family pets.
This law is absolutely ridiculious! I work in the insurance industry! This type of insurance is going to cost to much because the insurer’s do not know what to expect, so the rates will be high! I have a Boxer and even though data on them says they are good with children (he is with my son!), I still make sure I tell people, please be careful, come up to him slowly, let him smell you first, etc…RESPONSIBLITY first! Not new laws which are going to create a mess for good honest, responsible people who love their dogs! We are losing to many people from this state and I might be next with all the taxes and insurance costs and laws! What to the meaning of FREEDOM?
Well, it’s good to see you all love animals more than humans. Frankly, while the legislator may be extreme he is on the right path.
The dog who attacked my daughter and put her in emergency room is allowed to live even after 3 dog bites. She has always been scared of dogs, avoids them. All witnesses say she was minding her own business while walking on sidewalk. (No, it wasn’t a stupid human trick.)
The Dog lives but now we have to drive her to bus stop, live with the scar, and other kids in the neighborhood are at risk. At the least, such a law would give some “teeth” to capital punishment for bad dogs.
My heart feels for Elijah’s Family, but not all dogs are dangerous.
Owning a dog is as american as apple pie. I have 2 doberman’s and they are as gentle as can be. They would sooner urinate on your feet than bit you. As a responsible dog owner I make sure that my dogs are licensed and vet check yearly and vaccinated. As a responsible dog owner I have spent a lot of money taking my dogs to obedience class and they have blue ribbions to prove it. I don’t have children; however, my dogs are my children. Six years ago when I had to put my 14 year old doberman to sleep
it almost killed me. For a dog owner that is the worst thing they’ll ever have to do. I’m a nurse and I have never had to care for a inpatient that had been bitten by a dog. However, we admit and treat patients all the time for cat bits. By passing Elija’s law there will be an overwhelming amount of dog owner who will no longer be able to afford to own a dog. This will place an increased burdened on the SPCA and local pounds. Dogs will be abandoned and allowed to run and we will have problems with farrel dog like we do farrel cats. Who’s going to pay to clean up that mess. Dog’s are pack animals and allowed to run this could become and even greater problem.
As a pack they may begin killing livestock to survive. I know that I speak for dog owners all over. It would be less painful to stab me throught the heart as to take my dogs away. If this proposal is passed I will no longer be able to afford to keep my dogs. I live for my dogs without them life wouldn’t be worth living. There has to be a better solution to this problem and not at the expense of Man’s Best Friend.
Yet another absurd, unnecessary law for insurance companies to cash in on in this hyper-litigous society. This is as unfair as it gets. What if I’ve had my dog for several years and he has never shown any aggressive tendencies or hurt anyone in any way? Is it fair for me and others with gentle, well-behaved animals like mine, to have to pay more monthly premiums for yet another insurance policy that I will never need? It would be interesting to see who is behind Rivera in this plan to bilk responsible dog owner’s out of more hard earned money. No doubt the big insurance companies are foaming at the mouth for this one. I’ve got an idea. Why not have teenager liability insurance while we’re at it. I’ve met plenty of irresponsible teens of irresponsible parents out there a lot more dangerous than my and most other peoples’ dogs. Heck, most accidents on the road are caused by 16, 17 and 18 year old teens: “The risk of crash involvement per mile driven among 16-19 years-old is 4 times the risk among older drivers. Risk is highest at age 16.” (from Insurance Institute for Highway Safety website) Teens get into more fights, they vandalize property more often, and they join violent gangs, so why not make parents have liability insurance for their teens? See the absurdity folks?
I am very sorry for what happened to your daughter, and the dog that did it should be put down. But forcing liability insurance on all dog owners isn’t necessarily going to get that dog or any other dog put down. Unfortunately, you are also making a classic logical error when you take your isolated bad experience with one dog, and apply that to every dog and dog owner. It’s understandable given what happened to your daughter, but your sweeping judgment of dog’s and dog owners is simply not based in fact or logic and that makes it invalid. I and most other dog owner’s do not “love dogs more than humans” as you apparently believe. Most dog owners are responsible, caring people who go out of there way to make sure their dog is licensed, well-behaved and safe. Punishing all dog owners, the vast majority of whom are respoonsible, because of the acts of a minority of irresponsible morons who cannot handle their animals is simply unfair and will not make anyone safer from these idiots and their dangerous dogs. It certainly won’t change what happened to your daughter.
A few years ago, I had a standard Poodle. He was an adorable boy, great with our family. He would not tolerate visitors to the house, and on several occasions chased visiting children.
He bit a person once. A neighbor came into our yard with a petition in hand and the dog barked at him, then circled behind and bit his calf. No charges were pressed and we muzzled him from then on.
This dog went through obedience classes. This dog was loved. This dog was kept inside the house. This dog was walked on a leash. We had him for 2 1/2 years before deciding that he wasn’t getting any better.
The final straw came when Simon attacked our other dog, with no provocation.
After much soul-searching, I took Simon to the vet and put him down, and it was one of the hardest things I’ve done in my life. I held him as he slipped away. After doing my best for this dog, I had decided that he wasn’t able to reform and we were unwilling to continue to live this way. I still wonder if it was the right thing.
This law is not for ME. It’s probably not for you, either, since by reading this online forum, you are probably a person with some education and middle class responsibilities.
So I wonder, who is this law for?
The problem, as I perceive it, is this. Dogs, when untrained and unmanaged, can be a nuisance or even become dangerous. People who keep dogs need to understand this responsibility. Sadly, many people do not, as evidenced by the number of dogs in the 1 year old range that are sent to shelters every year to be destroyed.
I don’t see this insurance scheme as a realistic solution to the problem.
The insurance approach builds a risk pool and protects the insurance companies while not fixing the problem. Responsible dog owners will be funding their own punishment under this law, while the irresponsible parties go without insurance, without license, without cares.
If you have a problem dog, it’s not hard to find out. Your neighbors probably know already. Ask them if you’re not sure. The dog warden may have an opinion too, especially if he’s picked up your dog as a stray a few times. Rather than punishing all dog owners and creating paperwork, why not just enforce the laws that exist regarding loose or agressive dogs? Rather than establishing complex actuarial classifications of a dog breed’s propensity to bite, why not just punish the biters and their owners?
Does anyone seriously think that the unlicensed, unmanaged dogs in New York City pose the same risk as my two licensed, trained, vaccinated dogs in their chain link fenced back yard 300 mile away upstate?
I think this law is a bad idea because it does not solve the problem, and it creates new problems.
I love this law. I have been waiting for a law like this for a long time. Dogs are vicious by nature. They have teeth and will bite. We try to domesticate them and still we have to know that they are wild by nature. Just like a snake, Alligator, or Lion. Even after being trained they can attack at any given moment. And a child will be a child. Please, can you really teach a 1 to 3 year old to stay away from dogs. This law has been needed for a long time. I live in Houston and I wish it would come to Texas soon !!!!!
Houston, It’s ignorance like yours that allows foolish laws like this to pass and costs the rest of us more freedom every day in this country. The depth of your ignorance with regard to canines is brethtaking and all should take it into account when considering your completely ill-informed and unreasonable opinion.
NYC continues to come up with more scams to increase revenues. Mandatory liability insurance for dog owners is plain nuts! Why not use the nyc dog licensing fees to create a fund like no fault auto insurance. That would solve the problem! Let’s face it, the nyc lic. fees are most probably used to pay totally unnecessary salaries. Why not put this money to good use. The actual impact of this law would be devastating. First and foremost many more adoptable dogs would fail to get homes and be euthanized because many people can not afford the extra costs. This would be horrendous. Many nyc dog owners, especially the elderly and those living on fixed incomes would be unable to keep their dogs. The elderly would suffer immensly. Many of their dogs are the ONLY companions they have left.It’s disgusting!
Don’t punish the innocent. Punish the dog owners who either by neglect or ignorance continue to own dogs or other animals without a clue as to what a responsibility it is. Instead of mandatory dog insurance, have would-be owners take educational classes on the different aspects of pet ownership. If a person is not interested, they don’t get the privilege of owning a pet. There are many loving pet owners who cringe whenever they see the abuse pets receive in the hands of the ignorant or neglectful. Educate the interested and punish those who wantonly abuse, abandon and mistreat these animals. As an insurance agent, I’ve personally seen “mean” chihuahuas and “gentle” pit bulls. It would be more than a tragedy to implement this legislation.
I feel very bad for the child and this was probally a last straw for someone. I think this could just turn into another revenue tool for the state. What happens to the people that can not afford the insurance that have pets? Where are they all going to go? What happens if you own mulitple pets?
Has this law passed , and who should i contact to get rid of it I think that this is just another way for the state and insurance companies to collect revanue .I thought part of the license fee was for just this sort of thing .
I am strongly in favor of this bill as myself and my boss were attacked and mauled by a pit bull at our place of employment. Not only are we still going to court over this viscious attack but the day we were attacked the owner of the dog was given back her dog. I was bitten on my leg and miraculously was able to free myself from his death grip, however, my boss wasn’t that lucky. He was mauled and bitten several times. He is a 60+ year old man who was unable to defend himself. He was knocked down to the ground and bitten on both legs, hands, and his stomach was ripped apart. The physical scars are permanent as is the emotional scars that we will both have to live with for the rest of our lives. If the owners of the dog are not liable than who is?? Who takes this responsibility of owning a viscious dog?? The laws in NY need to be changed and neglagent dog owners need to be help responsible..I support this bill and pray that it will become a state law
The bill is pending in the NYS Assembly’s Agriculture Committee. See http://assembly.state.ny.us/leg/?bn=A10169.
In order to drive a car you must have liability insurance so victims can be compensated.
I’ve been driving for 35 years – never been in an accident – I still have to pay for insurance to offset the cost of bad drivers.
ALL dog owners must pay to offset the cost of irresponsible dog owners – it’s that simple!!!!
I love Mr Nick Shoop
We must first must understand, that people are not going to give-up their pets, for no one. They will let the insurance companies take their homeowners insurance first.We have a device that will help keep our children, the general public safe and save the insurance companies millions in law suite concerning vicious dog attack injuries.This is the alternative for the insurance. We have the attention of the News Media and city Officials. We just reciecved a letter from The Office Of Governor, Arnold Schwarzenegger. This system is light weight and will not harm the dog in any manner. One of the great features hi-tech system,is the dog can drink water while wearing the system. Thank you.
We are the person that worte about the system, that will help control dog attacks on our children in the home and the general public and will help the homeowners
in getting back their homerowners insurance
because of the type of dog the have. The Canine Muzzle Release System/ECR; WILL NOT HARM THE DOG. THIS SYSTEM SAVES LIVES E-mail us at ViciousDogSol@aol.com Or JJIREHETWInc628@AOL.COM
This bill is insane as it is a form of collective punishment. I have raised Bouvier Des Flanders for 7+ years and they would most likely be high on the list and cost me a fortune in insurance adding a silly fee to me a responsible dog owner.
What needs to be realized here is a few facts.Most dogs reflect their owners. I will not say that there are a few dogs out there that are naturally aggressive but for the most part the responsibility is with each individual owner.Liability insurance is not the answer.One of the main problems with our society is the lack of responsability.In Canada per capita there are more guns than in the U.S.A. but far less gun related crime.Gun ownership there is much more controlled and requires more training.I believe if you are going to change laws concerning dog ownership it should be towards responsibility rather than liability.A person in a rental apartment in an overcrowded area should not be allowed to own a large breed dog as it makes no sense.A large breed active dog needs room to roam.It is a matter of responsability may I state for the 20th time.People should be screened prior to dog ownership especially of hard temperment dogs such as some terrier breeds,guard breeds,working breeds and others.Bouviers have a medium hard temperment and can be very dominant of which I know with experience.I have spent weeks months and years in training of my dogs as my female can be dominate especialy with young children as she is trying to herd them.
My 2 cents
David Yantz
Looking for insurance companies that will write this specialty coverage. Anyone out there have any leads for me or those struggling to find coverage?
Joanne, I am in the process of looking for the same thing. Send me a note with your email address and if I find it, I will let you know too.
-Rich Bernstein
NJ P&C Producer
Joanne, I found someone who has it. They are called Kalmanson Insurance and their phone is 407-645-5000. Ask for Tara.
Does anyone know of another agency besides Kalmanson’s which writes canine liability policies?
I can fully try to understand and only imagine how horrifing, painful, traumatizing, and so on and so on as to how it would feel to be mauled by a dog; especialy one that happens to be a breed that has the physical power to “maul!” I won’t pretend that certain dogs are not scary. Howewver, at the same time that you may have had a life threatening encounter with a “vicious dog,” that “same” dog is my best friend; therapist to my invalid father; dog trainer to my dog fearul friends; and inspirator to my elderly neighbors. My Rottwieller/pit/shephard/ (who knows what mix she really is) was on death row when i rescued her. She was a wild girl… i called her “CRAZY LADY!!!” But she never once harmed anyone, she changed people’s lives through her love and unconditional selflessness and altruism. Please understand that all creatures, are only as much of a product of their enviroment as others allow them to be. Labeling, in general, is the launch of assumption, ignorance… discrimination. I hope you can find it in your heart to be open to all breeds, classes, colors, sexes, preferences, etc. No one, should be mauled by an animal, but the population that should be targeted within this real issue, is the irresponsible dog owners… especially the people who breed and perpetuate dog fighting.. That’s all for now, i have much more if anyone feels like responding!! I only wish the best for all :)
I AM ELIJAH’S STEPDAD AND FOR THOSE WHO DONT KNOW ELIJAH WAS JUST WALKING DOWN TO THE CORNER TO GRAB A CAB WITH HIS MOM, THE DOG GOT OUT FROM HIS LEASH AND JUMPED A FENCE AND ATTACKED ELIJAH FROM BEHIND …THEY NEVER SAW THE DOG COMING.THANK GOD ELIJAH IS RECOVERING,AND THANK GOD ONE OF THE MANY BILLS WILL BE SIGNED BY GOV. PATAKI …
First of all, I have to say that I am terribly sorry for what happened to Mr Munoz’s nephew. For anyone to be injured in ANY kind of attack, is horrible. This legislation however is not the answer. Responsible owners are. Puppymill breeders are. Elijah is absolutely innocent.
When a human attack’s or kills another, they are the one to be held responsible. It isn’t every other human. Dogs of ANY breed should not be penalized for the behavior of another dog. It does not make sense! All this bill will do is make law suits easier and pay a higher award.
I too used to be afraid of Rottweilers – then I met one and realized what loving, intelligent animals they are! I had to have one and now I have a two year old male that I raised from a puppy. He has been to obedience class and has been well socialized. I am a responsible dog owner and I would be devastated if I had to lose Baron because I could not afford the insurance. I can barely afford my car, life and home owners as it is. Please do not spread the pain.
Mr. Munoz –
I am a reporter for the New York Daily News, and I am trying to reach you for a story.
Please notify me at jmartinez@edit.nydailynews.com on how I may be able to contact you.
Thanks – Jose Martinez, Reporter
I REALLY NEED TO TALK TO YOU. SO AS SOON AS YOU GET THIS EMAIL CAN YOU PLEASE E MAIL ME BACK OR CALL ME AT 1-718-486-3660
Kingstone Insurance Company an admitted New York Company writes stand alone canine legal liability insurance in New York. For more information go to our website at kingstoneinsurance.com