Three Routes to Recovery for a Dog Bite in Wyoming

By the FigureMyTax Editorial Team · How we calculate

Wyoming has no dog bite statute, but its courts give victims three routes.

No dog bite statute

Summaries agree that there is no state dog bite statute, so Wyoming is a "one bite state," although cities and counties may have ordinances creating strict liability.

Gannon v. Voss (2003)

A summary of the Supreme Court's decision describes three routes: scienter, negligence, and negligence per se for violating a leash or at-large ordinance.

Scienter needs no prior bite

A prior bite is not required; it is enough that the dog has shown a vicious disposition, and the framework covers an owner or harborer.

Negligence

The negligence theory does not require proof that the dog was vicious or that the owner knew it was.

Local rules

Some ordinances distinguish a "dangerous dog" from a "vicious dog", with consequences for the owner, so check the local code.

Deadline

Four years, under W.S. 1-3-105.

This is general information, not legal advice, and the state comparisons above are illustrative, not an exhaustive survey. Confirm how Wyoming's rules apply to your specific case with a licensed Wyoming attorney.