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Case Study

Dog Bite Injury – $500,000 Recovery

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Summary

Our client experienced a violent dog attack while pet setting, leaving her with facial injuries and long list of medical bills. Through our attorneys’ persistent advocacy for the client and strong documentation work, Horst Shewmaker secured a $500,000 policy‑limit tender.

Incident

Last year, our client—a professional pet sitter contracted through a national dog‑sitting agency—was entrusted with two unfamiliar dogs on a routine assignment. Though she had six months of experience with other animals, this was her first encounter with these particular pets. The agency warned her that one dog had behavioral issues and needed to be fed separately. While feeding the “safe” dog, our client placed the bowl on the floor and stepped back. As she reached to pick it up, the other dog—unbeknownst to her—lunged forward. In an instant, he clamped down on her face. The force severed approximately 75% of her lower lip and left multiple puncture wounds across her cheek and jaw. Shocked and bleeding profusely, she stumbled into a bathroom, struggled to speak, and immediately called 911. Firefighters and animal control arrived on scene; EMS rushed her to the nearest emergency department.

Injuries & Treatments

  • Facial Trauma: Near‑amputation of the lower lip; two deep lacerations on cheek and mandible.
  • Emergency Surgery: Prompt reattachment surgery later that day salvaged a portion of her lip.
  • Reconstructive Needs: Ongoing reconstructive procedures were necessary due to tissue loss and slow healing.
  • Functional Impairments: Persistent difficulties eating, smiling, and speaking caused daily pain and emotional distress.

Our Solution

1. Comprehensive Documentation

  • Obtained the animal control report detailing the dog’s prior aggressive behavior.
  • Secured full emergency room and surgical records, including photographic evidence of her injuries.
  • Consulted with a reconstructive surgeon to forecast additional procedures and lifetime care needs.
2. Pre‑Suit Demand
  • Prepared a demand package for the homeowner’s insurer, enclosing:
  • High‑resolution injury photos
  • Complete medical billing statements
  • The animal control incident report
  • Calculated damages for past and future medical expenses, lost wages, pain & suffering, and reconstructive costs.
3. Persistent Advocacy
  • Responded to insurer’s requests for supplemental information within 24 hours.
  • Leveraged statutory dog‑owner liability under Georgia law to underscore clear fault.
  • Threatened litigation to ensure policy‑limit exposure and timely resolution.

 

After one month of negotiations and steady pressure on the homeowner’s carrier, Horst Shewmaker secured a $500,000 policy‑limit tender. Our client was able to schedule her reconstructive procedures without delay, cover all medical expenses, and address ongoing therapy for speech and functional recovery.
*Prior results does not guarantee a similar outcome.
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Testimonios

Horst & Shewmaker es profesional, atento y hizo todo lo posible para ayudar en todo lo que pudo. Recuerdo una ocasión en que Zach estaba de vacaciones, jugando en un torneo de kickball, si no recuerdo mal, y aun así atendió mi llamada fuera del horario laboral. ¡Lo recomendaría encarecidamente!

Landon D.

Los abogados de Horst Shewmaker, LLC llevaron mi caso de manera oportuna y minuciosa. Me mantuvieron informado sobre el proceso, las decisiones y el resultado en cada paso del camino. Fueron amables y se preocuparon sinceramente por garantizar el mejor resultado para mí. Recomiendo este bufete de abogados.

Kim B.

Todos fueron pacientes y serviciales, incluso cuando yo no tenía mucha paciencia con ellos. Me guiaron con atención, pero aun así me escucharon y respetaron mis decisiones en cada asunto. Sin duda, estoy agradecido por sus servicios.

Reuben K.
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