Who’s Liable if a Dog Bites Me When It’s With a Dog Sitter?

Dog sitters and walkers provide invaluable support to millions of pet owners across the country, with pet sitting services experiencing a staggering 68% increase in usage over the past three decades. However, this rise in popularity brings important questions about liability, especially in cases of dog bites. If you’re wondering about dog walker liability in California, who’s responsible when a dog bites a dog walker, or what happens in a dog walker bite lawsuit in California, you’re not alone. This comprehensive guide explores these topics in depth, including specific policies like the Rover dog bite policy and what to do if your dog bit the dog walker.

California has seen a sharp increase in severe dog bites, with horrific maulings making headlines more frequently. In fact, insurance companies rank California as the top state for dog bite claims, highlighting the need for clear understanding of liability laws.

Dog bites aren’t limited to incidents under the owner’s direct supervision—they can happen anytime, including when the dog is with a sitter, walker, or friend. Below, we break down liability in these scenarios, drawing from California’s strict laws and real-world examples.

California Has Strict Liability Laws for Dog Bites

Victims don’t need to prove the dog’s past behavior or the owner’s negligence—one bite is sufficient for liability. Statements like “He’s never bitten before!” won’t absolve the owner.

That said, there are defenses that may apply in court, such as:

• If the victim provoked or teased the dog.
• If the victim was trespassing on the owner’s property.
• If the dog was acting in legitimate self-defense.
• If the victim assumed the risk, such as in veterinary or grooming professions.

When liability is established, claims are typically covered by the owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance, or commercial policies if applicable. Factors like the bite’s location and parties involved play a key role.

Dog Bites and Pet Care Professionals

In California, pet care professionals like dog walkers and sitters are often considered to assume the risk of bites as part of their job (known as the “veterinarian rule” extension). If a dog bites a dog walker, suing the owner is challenging unless the owner knew the dog was dangerous and failed to warn them.

However, the situation changes when the dog bites a third party while under the sitter’s care. For example, if a dog bites a passerby during a walk, the victim can pursue claims against the dog owner (under strict liability), the dog walker (if negligent), and potentially the pet sitting company.

California’s strict liability can extend to the sitter if they had “care and control” of the dog at the time. Victims may recover for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

Sitters employed by companies may shift liability to their employer. Platforms like Rover and Wag have varying policies—more on that below.

When the Pet Sitter Isn’t a Professional

Liability isn’t limited to professionals. Friends, family, or informal sitters can also face responsibility if negligent, though the owner remains primarily liable under strict rules.

For minors under 18, parents may be vicariously liable.

Comparison of Popular Dog Sitting Services’ Policies on Dog Bites 

To help you understand dog walker liability, here’s a comparison of policies from two major platforms: Rover and Wag. This table highlights key differences in their Rover dog bite policy and Wag’s approach.

If using these services, review their terms carefully—links: Rover Guarantee and Wag Terms.

Step-by-Step Guide: What to Do If a Dog Bites You While It’s With a Sitter 

If you’ve been bitten, quick action is crucial. Here’s a step-by-step guide tailored to incidents involving dog sitters:

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Clean the wound and visit a doctor or ER for treatment, including rabies shots if needed. Document all injuries.
2. Report the Incident: Notify animal control and file a police report. This creates an official record for your claim.
3. Gather Evidence: Collect witness statements, photos of injuries and the scene, and details about the dog, owner, and sitter (e.g., if it’s a Rover dog bite case).
4. Identify Liable Parties: Determine if the owner, sitter, or company (like in a dog walker bite lawsuit in California) is responsible. Consult a lawyer for dog walker liability assessment.
5. Contact Insurance Providers: Notify the owner’s homeowner’s insurance and any company policies (e.g., Rover dog bite policy).
6. Consult a Dog Bite Attorney: If your dog bit the dog walker (as an owner) or you’re the victim, get legal advice to pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain.
7. File a Claim or Lawsuit: Work with your lawyer to negotiate a settlement or file suit if necessary.

Following these steps can strengthen your case and improve outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Bites Involving Sitters 

Our Track Record: $150,000 California Dog Attack Injury Settlement 

At Sally Morin Personal Injury Lawyers, we’ve successfully handled numerous dog bite cases. For instance, in one case, our client was attacked by two off-leash pit bulls while walking her own dog. She suffered a fibula fracture requiring surgery, and her dog was injured too. We negotiated a $150,000 settlement, with the client netting $95,000 after a small Medi-Cal lien. By reducing medical debt and maximizing damages, we allowed her to focus on recovery. Read more about this case.

What Our Clients Say 

Building trust is key in personal injury cases. Here’s what some clients have shared:

“I strongly recommend working with Sally Morin Law! One of my clients was hit by a car while riding his bike in San Francisco and suffered some very serious injuries. Thank you Sally — you did a great job with my client, helped him gain a very positive settlement and made me look great too!”

Read Kelly M.‘s review of Sally Morin Personal Injury Lawyers on Yelp

“I contacted Sally Morin Personal Injury Lawyers after I was hit by a car in 2019. This team (specifically Lauren Pietsch) fought tooth and nail to get me the highest possible settlement. She was 100% transparent and communicative the entire time we worked together. Lauren went above and beyond to make me feel comfortable and protected, could not recommend Sally Morin Personal Injury Lawyers more.”

Read Kelsey B.‘s review of Sally Morin Personal Injury Lawyers on Yelp

“Carmen and the team at Sally Morin Law were great to help turn what was a painful situation into a painless process quickly. Transparent, thorough, and communicative from start to finish – not to mention achieving the outcome set out for from the beginning. I’m grateful and appreciative for how they handled everything and would absolutely recommend Carmen and the Firm as a resource to others going forward.”

Read Kati K.‘s review of Sally Morin Personal Injury Lawyers on Yelp

Do I Have a Case? Assess Your Dog Bite Claim 

Wondering if your dog bite incident warrants legal action? Use our “Do I Have a Case” tool to get a quick assessment.

Contact Our Expert Dog Bite Lawyers

As evidenced, dog bite cases involving sitters are complex, with factors like rover dog bite scenarios and dog walker liability at play. At Sally Morin Personal Injury Lawyers, we specialize in California dog bites, including those with pet sitters. Let us handle the details so you can focus on recovery. Call 877-380-8852 today for a free case evaluation.