Dog Walker Injury Claims

A Step-by Step Guide To Compensation

Dog walking has become a popular profession, but if injuries happen unexpectedly, dog walker injury claims are one way to recover the costs, as well as pain and suffering caused. Injuries may include dog bites from the dog you are walking, as well as from other dogs. You may also be able to claim for a slip or fall in a public place if it wasn’t your fault.

Dog walker injury claims fall under personal injury claims. You may be eligible to make such a claim if you have been hurt due to someone else’s negligence or a dangerous animal.

You have three years from the date of the accident, or from the date you became aware of the injury to file a claim, so the earlier you start, the better. We work with personal injury lawyers who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis and who can assess whether your case is valid.

When Can You Claim For An Injury?

Dog walker injury claims arise when someone is hurt while walking a dog. This could be either their own or someone else’s and the injury is caused by someone else’s negligence or an aggressive animal.

You may be entitle to claim if:

• The dog you were walking caused injury due to lack of training or a known history of aggression.
• You were injured due to poorly maintained paths or public walkways.
• Another dog or person’s actions caused your injury.

Who Can Make a Dog Walker Injury Claim?

You can make a claim if:

• You’re a professional dog walker and were hurt during work.
• You were walking your own dog and got injured due to someone else’s negligence.
• You were injured by someone else’s dog while out walking.

Employers and pet owners have a duty of care. If they fail to provide a safe environment or adequate information about a dog’s behaviour, they may be held liable.

Common Dog Walking Injuries

Dog walkers can experience a range of injuries, including:

1. Dog Bites and Scratches

Even friendly dogs can bite if frightened or provoked. These can lead to infections or permanent scarring, especially if medical attention is delayed.

2. Falls and Trips

Tripping over a lead, being pulled by an excited dog, or slipping on muddy ground are common causes of slip and trip injuries during dog walks.

3. Sprains and Fractures

A strong dog can cause sudden pulls or jerks, leading to twisted ankles, dislocated shoulders, or even broken bones.

4. Head Injuries

Falls caused by dogs lunging or tugging can lead to serious injuries like concussions or traumatic brain injuries.

5. Soft Tissue Injuries

Pulled muscles, torn ligaments, and other non-visible injuries can be painful and long-lasting. These can affect your ability to work or walk.

How to Make a Dog Walker Injury Claim

If you’ve been injured while walking a dog, here’s how to get started with your personal injury claim:

Step 1: Seek Medical Attention

Always visit a GP or hospital after an injury. Your medical records will serve as essential evidence in your claim.

Step 2: Gather Evidence

Strong evidence is vital. This may include:

• Photos of the injury, scene, or hazard
• Witness statements
• CCTV or dashcam footage if possible
• Dog details, including owner’s name, breed and behavioural history
• Accident report (if in a park, workplace or private property)

Step 3: Report the Incident

If you were injured by someone else’s dog, report it to the local council or animal control. If you’re working, notify your employer in writing and file a workplace accident report as this will also form part of the evidence.

Step 4: Contact a Personal Injury Solicitor

Get in contact with an experienced solicitor. Many offer a no win, no fee arrangement, meaning you don’t pay legal fees unless you win compensation. At Jefferies Claims, we work with solicitors who are highly experienced in these types of claims, whether animal injury or public liability claims.

Step 5: File Your Claim

Your solicitor will guide you through the formal claim process. This typically involves:

• Sending a Letter of Claim to the responsible party
• Waiting for a response
• Negotiating a settlement
• Most personal injury claims are settled out of court. Court proceedings will only happen if required and your solicitor will be there to help you every step of the way.

Time Limits for Dog Walker Injury Claims

You usually have three years from the date of the incident to make a personal injury claim. However, there are exceptions, such as:

• For children under 18, the time limit starts from their 18th birthday.
• For those lacking mental capacity, there is no time limit unless capacity is regained.

It is advisable to act quickly to ensure evidence is preserved and witness accounts are fresh.

How Much Compensation Can You Claim?

The compensation amount depends on the injury’s severity and impact on your life. Generally, your payout will include:

• General damages for pain, suffering, and loss of amenity
• Special damages for financial losses such as:
  • Medical expenses
  • Travel costs
  • Lost earnings
  • Future care needs

For example:

• Minor hand injuries: Up to £5,800
• Moderate shoulder injuries: £9,630 – £15,580
• Legs – Simple Fracture or Soft Tissue Injuries: Up to £14,500

As each case is unique, your solicitor will use legal guidelines to estimate your claim’s value

How to Strengthen Your Dog Walker Injury Claim

Boost your chances of making a successful claim by following these tips:

• Keep all receipts and records of expenses
• Don’t delay your medical treatment
• Record a daily pain or recovery diary
• Avoid discussing your case on social media
• Get a legal opinion early

Contact Us Today

We work with highly experienced lawyers who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis, so there’s no upfront cost or financial risk for you. At Jefferies Claims, we’ll guide you through every step of your claim.

📞 Call us: 0333 358 3034
📧 Email us: info@jefferiesclaims.co.uk
📝 Online: Complete our online form for a free, no-obligation consultation with one of our friendly team.