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>>Robert K.Dellenbach: Attorney Laurie Hart gives this counsel
about pets: If you have a pet, it’s a good idea to consider the
laws that affect it. Pet laws are passed by states, counties, and
cities. They are numerous and vary widely from city to city and
state to state. Here are just a few you should know. If you have
a dog and it bites someone, your homeowner’s insurance will not
cover the liability. Many insurance companies now exclude coverage
or injuries caused by pets, and some companies will not issue
homeowner’s insurance at all if you have pet they consider dangerous.
If your homeowner’s insurance does cover injuries caused by pets,
you will probably be denied renewal of your policy if your pet
bites someone and a claim as filed. In both Idaho and Utah, owners
of domestic animals running on the open range have no duty to keep
the animals off any highway on such range, and are not liable for
damage to any vehicle, or injury to passengers in the vehicle. In
fact, drivers of vehicles hitting an animal on an open range may be
liable to the owner.
What does all this mean to you, the pet owner? First, read your
homeowner’s insurance policy carefully to determine if you have
coverage for your pet. If not, contact your agent to see if you can
obtain specific coverage of pets or an umbrella policy that will
cover pets.
Second, take the time to learn the pet rules in your city. Most
city ordinances can be found online.
Third, get your pet licensed, if possible, to make sure that you can
be contacted if it is lost so you will have the longest time allowed
by law to claim it.
Lastly, Idaho and Utah feature lot of open range. Keep a sharp lookout
while driving. Knowing the law can help ensure a happy ending for you
and your ‘Lassie.’ Please note: This presentation should not be construed
as legal advice. Please consult an attorney about your own needs and circumstances.