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Animals

pets—damages for death or injury

Most states classify companion pet animals (dogs, cats) as personal property, and only allow owners to recover the fair market value (what a willing buyer would pay for the animal) or the replacement cost (the cost of replacing the pet with an animal of the same age, breed, and condition) for the injury or death of the pet (a rare, prize winning, pedigreed dog may have greater economic value). But some states allow pet owners to recover greater damages when the injury or death of the pet is intentional or malicious.

In Ohio, companion animals such as dogs and cats are generally considered personal property under the law. This means that if a pet is injured or killed, the owner is typically limited to recovering the fair market value or the replacement cost of the pet. The fair market value is determined by what a willing buyer would pay, while the replacement cost is the expense of obtaining another pet of the same age, breed, and condition. However, Ohio does recognize the special value of pets to their owners and allows for the recovery of damages for the intentional or malicious injury or death of a pet. This can include compensation for the loss of companionship and emotional distress suffered by the owner, which goes beyond the mere market or replacement value of the animal. It's important to note that the specifics of what damages are recoverable can vary depending on the circumstances of the case and the rulings of the courts.

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Animals

pets—damages for death or injury

Individual & Family Legal Plan

Articles

Ohio State Code

Animals

pets—damages for death or injury

Ohio State Code

Articles