Neighbor dogs broke into yard and killed our dog

[bearsgonetalkin]

Four aggressive dogs broke thru the wooden fence adjoining their/my yard. Two of these devils attacked and killed our shiztu!! This is a very traumatic experience to our entire family. My wife witnessed it and is brought to tears everytime she talks about it. My five and four year old children are fearful to go in the backyard because of these animals. Everytime they hear a dog barking the bring up the event and are scared. They have not stopped talking about this event since it happened. And I am the same. The dogs also caused damage to our screened in porch.

Our precious family dog Mattie cannot be replaced, but what action can I take for this negligent event? This is the third time these dogs have broken into our yard, and twice caused damage and now a death of our dog. Is the neighbor liable to replace the fence and damages to our porch? And what avenue do I have against him for the emotional stress and fear placed into our family?

Thanks in advance for your help in directing us going forward.

 

[mightymoose]

Your dog is considered property, and you can sue your neighbor for the value of your dog and for the value of the damage caused by their dogs.... though you should certainly try asking them to pay before suing them.
You can also contact animal control and advise them of the recurring events. Animal control has the authority, depending upon circumstances, to take the dogs away (they may not be properly licensed).