While I would have to agree with Circle C on the fact that both parties must share in the responsibility of the fate of this animal, I would have to say that the Animal Control may still be liable for the end result, as the animal was in their care, custody, and control at the time of the animals’ death. As with a humane that is taken into Police custody, a certain level of responsibility and care are assumed by that agency. Please don’t misunderstand me, I am in no way comparing an animals’ life to the value of a humans’ life, just using it as an example for the assumed level of responsibility.
I would make sure that you have all of the facts regarding the incident from both sides. Most Animal Control Agencies do their best to insure the animals in their custody are housed in a safe manner and can reasonably prevent the animal from injury or escape. I would make sure that the Animal Control Officer who picked up the dog followed procedure for impounding the animal and if he/she did not, then you might have a leg to stand on as for holding them financially responsible for the dog.
You said the animal was placed in a crate in a barn? Why an Animal Control Officer would do something like that I don’t understand, as it would appear that they have a facility for holding stray animal from what I could find on their web site.
http://www.bellcountytx.com/Sheriff/11animalcontrol.htmStill either way, I’m sorry to hear of the dogs’ death.
