Liability of Pet Owners for Injuries Caused by Their Animals in the Philippines

Query: Are pet owners liable for compensating a person bitten by their pet, including covering medical expenses and lost wages due to work absence?

In the Philippines, pet owners have certain legal responsibilities when their animals cause harm to another person. Under the Civil Code of the Philippines, specifically Articles 2183 and 2195, the owner of an animal is liable for the damages it may cause, including injuries inflicted on another person. This liability covers not only medical expenses but can also extend to other damages such as lost wages if the injured party is rendered unable to work.

1. Strict Liability for Animal Owners: The law imposes a form of strict liability on owners for the actions of their pets. This means that the pet owner is responsible for any injury caused by their pet, regardless of whether the owner was negligent.

2. Medical Expenses: The primary liability of the pet owner is to cover all medical expenses arising from the injury caused by their animal. This includes immediate medical treatment, follow-up care, and any rehabilitation costs.

3. Lost Wages: In addition to medical expenses, pet owners might also be liable for compensation covering lost wages if the victim misses work due to the injury. This is particularly significant if the injuries are severe enough to prevent the victim from performing their work duties over a period of time.

4. Civil Liability: The injured party has the right to file a civil lawsuit for damages against the pet owner. This can include compensation for pain and suffering, loss of earning capacity, and other psychological or emotional distress caused by the incident.

5. Mitigating Circumstances: The liability of the pet owner can be mitigated if it is proven that the victim had provoked the animal or was trespassing at the time of the incident. The court may adjust the compensation accordingly based on the victim's contribution to the cause of the injury.

6. Legal Actions: Victims of animal bites should seek legal advice to understand their rights and the possible compensation they can claim. Legal actions should be initiated promptly to ensure that evidence is preserved and claims are filed within the statutory deadlines.

Pet owners are advised to take preventive measures, such as ensuring pets are properly restrained and training them to minimize aggressive behaviors. Understanding these legal responsibilities can help pet owners manage risks and respond appropriately if their pets cause harm.