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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.

Testimonials

Horst & Shewmaker is professional, attentive, and went above and beyond to help however they could. I recall a time Zach was on a vacation playing in a kickball tournament if I recall and he still took my call during non work hours. Would highly recommend!
Landon D.
The attorneys at Horst Shewmaker, LLC handled my case in a timely, thorough manner. They kept me apprised of the process, decisions and outcome every step of the way. They were polite and genuinely concerned to ensure the best outcome for me. I recommend this Law firm.
Kim B.
Everyone was patient and helpful even when I was not very patient with them. They guided me thoughtfully but still listened to me and respected my choices on every matter. Definitely grateful for their services.
Reuben K.

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