Because dogs and other animals are considered to be people's property, you will turn to the animal owner for compensation. You may be able to bring either or both of the following types of claims for compensation:

STRICT LIABILITY CLAIM: Under Minn. Stat. § 347.22, dog owners are liable for the injuries caused by their dog. This is a strict liability statute, which means that the dog owner is always liable unless the victim provoked the dog or the victim was somewhere they should not lawfully be - like private property.

NEGLIGENCE CLAIM: You can also file a negligence claim against the owner of a dog or animal. An owner that fails to exercise reasonable care while controlling their animal can be deemed negligent and liable for the injuries the animal causes. In some cases, punitive damages are also available.

If you are successful, the animal's owner (or their homeowner's or rental insurance), should provide payment to you for your damages.