While exotic pets may seem safe and even docile when they are young, they are still undomesticated and unpredictable. As a result, they often pose a high risk of injury, particularly to children.
In Florida, a two-year-old was recently killed after her family's pet python squeezed her to death. Even a pet that seems friendly can become frightened or irritated enough to attack with very little warning.
A 2008 report from the American Academy of Pediatrics found that exotic pets may be more prone than cats and dogs to do harm—including biting, scratching, or clawing—to children under the age of 5. In addition to traumatic injuries, exotic animals can also cause illness. Many animals, such as ferrets and reptiles, can carry infectious diseases. As a result, they can pose a risk to children even if they do not come in direct contact with them.
Finally, like all pet owners, an exotic pet owner can be held liable for injuries that their pet causes, which can be very costly and even lead to criminal charges in some cases.
The Dellutri Law Group is focused on making bad situations better and putting lives back together. If you or someone you love has been seriously injured in a Florida animal attack, you may be entitled to compensation. To learn more about your legal options, contact our experienced injury attorneys for a free consultation.
