What is the first thing I should do after

my companion animal is injured or killed?

 

Your first

priority should obviously be the care of your animal companion. If she is

injured, take her to a veterinarian as soon as possible. Ask the veterinarian

to carefully document the findings of the examination. Also ask the

veterinarian if she would be willing to testify as to the results. Request

copies of your animal companion’s treatment record from any and all vets

involved with her care.

 

If your animal

has been killed, since you do not need to rush to the veterinarian, you should

take time to complete as many of these actions as possible:

 

1. If possible, before moving your animal companion, take

pictures of her in the exact spot and position in which she was injured or

killed. Pictures may be very helpful and valuable. If you do not have a camera,

and time permits, draw a sketch of the scene of the incident.

 

2. Get names, addresses and telephone numbers of any

witnesses to the incident.

 

3. If time permits, obtain statements from witnesses to the

incident about what they saw.

 

4. If possible, get a statement from the person or persons

who injured or killed your animal companion.

 

5. If your animal companion was killed, take her body to a

veterinarian for a "necropsy," a detailed examination to establish

cause of death. A necropsy is very important if you choose to file a lawsuit,

even if you think the cause of death is obvious. Some states require a necropsy

in order to file a suit. Ask the veterinarian performing the necropsy if she

would be willing to testify as to the results if necessary.