Vermont has no dog bite statute and is not a strict liability state. A person bitten generally must show the owner knew or should have known the dog was dangerous, or was negligent. A town can also order a biting pet muzzled or confined under 20 V.S.A. 3546.
Enter your estimated damages and a few quick facts about the incident.
Vermont's only dog statute that touches bites, 20 V.S.A. 3546, is a municipal complaint procedure for a pet that bit someone off the owner's premises. Civil damages come from the common law, which summaries describe as a variation of the one-bite rule.
The chapter defines the owner to include anyone with actual or constructive possession, or who provides feed or shelter. The deadline is three years.
A local personal injury attorney can review your claim — many offer a free consultation.
This is an estimate for general guidance only and is not legal advice. Figures are based on the cited Vermont statutes. Confirm how these rules apply to your specific case with a licensed Vermont attorney.