Dog Bite Lawyers
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Published: November 21, 2020 | Last Reviewed: August 7, 2026
While Nova Scotia does not have a specific Dog Owners Liability Act like most provinces do – there are provisions under the provincial Occupier’s Liability Act that can hold dog owners responsible if someone gets bitten or attacked while on their property.
It does not matter if the dog does not have a history for biting or attacking, and it does not matter if the dog owner tried to hold the dog back or restrain them in some way. Some people believe that if the dog was provoked, the owner will not be held responsible, but that is also not the case.
When a dog has been provoked and bites the provoker as a result, the injured party can still file a lawsuit with the help of a dog bite lawyer.
While their compensation may be reduced due to the fact that they have some responsibility for being bitten, they may still be able to claim damages for expenses such as lost income and medical expenses.
Dog Bite Injuries
While no one ever wants to get bitten by a dog, many believe that when it happens the injuries may be restricted to minor cuts and bruises. But this is not true. Cuts can often be very deep and leave permanent scars on the face and other areas of the body, but soft tissue damage and broken bones are also common in dog bites.
This is especially true when the attack was not limited to one bite, but when the dog bit the victim repeatedly.
An injury that many people do not consider when thinking about dog bites is also the psychological trauma victims undergo.
A single bite or attack can result in a fear of dogs in someone who loved the animal before, as well as depression, anxiety, nightmares and panic attacks. In some instances, these injuries can last for years after the bite occurred.
When individuals are injured from a dog bite or attack, it is important that they speak with a dog bite lawyer after seeking medical treatment.
Dogs are often considered man’s best friend. And more often than not, they are friendly to both their owners and those new friends they meet throughout the day. But dogs can become aggravated for reasons unknown to their owners and others, and they can sometimes act unpredictably; even when they have no previous history of doing so.
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For more than 60 years, Preszler Injury Lawyers has been helping people across Atlantic Canada pursue the compensation they deserve for their dog bite claims. As one of the country’s longest-standing personal injury law firms, our practice is devoted entirely to injury law and helping accident victims–it’s all we do.
Schedule a free consultation today to speak with our award-winning personal injury lawyers and find out if you have a case. Our legal team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to take your call.
Talk to a Dog Bite Lawyer Today
If you have been injured by a dog bite, contact a dog bite lawyer that can review your case and help you recover any possible expenses associated with the bite. Our injury lawyers at Preszler Law can assist with dog bite claims and ensure you get the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a FREE initial consultation.
It is very important to record as much information as possible after a dog attack and to contact a lawyer from Preszler Injury Lawyers immediately.
Authored by Preszler Injury Lawyers
Personal Injury Law Firm
Preszler Injury Lawyers represents injured people across Ontario in personal injury matters, including motor vehicle accident claims, slip and fall claims, long-term disability claims, and institutional abuse claims.
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We are proud to be one of Canada’s oldest and long-standing personal injury law firms. Since 1959, we have been providing exceptional legal services and have established ourselves as leading personal injury lawyers in the Canadian legal community. It’s not just the awards that recognize our achievements, but also the wins we’ve achieved for thousands of Canadians with their dog bite claims.
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dog bite Settlements
Please note that past results are not indicative of future results as each scenario presents itself with its unique set of circumstances. But here are some dog bite related wins we’ve had for our clients.
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dog bite FAQs
Here are some commonly asked questions for dog bite claims
Can I sue after a dog bite in Nova Scotia?
You may have a claim if a dog owner or another responsible person failed to take reasonable steps to prevent the attack. Liability can depend on factors such as the dog’s previous behaviour, the owner’s knowledge, how the animal was controlled, and the circumstances of the incident. A lawyer can investigate what happened and determine whether you may be entitled to compensation.
Does the dog need to have bitten someone before for me to file a claim?
Not necessarily. Evidence that a dog previously acted aggressively can help establish that its owner knew about the danger, but a prior bite is not the only way to prove liability. A claim may also be based on negligence—for example, if the owner failed to restrain or supervise the dog when a reasonable person would have done so.
What compensation can I claim after a dog attack?
Depending on your injuries and circumstances, compensation may be available for pain and suffering, lost income, treatment expenses, rehabilitation costs, scarring, psychological trauma, and future care needs. The value of a claim depends on the evidence and the attack’s short- and long-term effects.
How long do I have to file a dog bite claim in Nova Scotia?
Nova Scotia’s general limitation period is often two years from the date a claim is discovered, but exceptions and different deadlines may apply. Because evidence can disappear and limitation issues can be complicated, it is important to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible.
How much does it cost to hire a dog bite lawyer?
Preszler Injury Lawyers handles eligible dog bite claims on a contingency-fee basis. This generally means you do not pay legal fees upfront, and legal fees are collected only if compensation is recovered for you. During a free initial consultation, we can explain the fee arrangement, potential expenses, and how costs would be handled in your case.
How can a dog bite lawyer help with my case?
A dog bite lawyer can investigate the attack, identify the responsible parties, gather evidence about the dog’s behaviour, obtain medical documentation, and calculate your losses. Your lawyer can also communicate with insurers, negotiate on your behalf, and pursue legal action when necessary—all while protecting your rights and applicable deadlines.
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