Pennsylvania has a Dog Law that makes owners and keepers of a dog responsible to have reasonable control over their dogs all the time. They must keep the dog confined on their property, or restrained with a collar, leash, etc. (This is sometimes referred to as the “Leash Law”). If the owner or keeper violates this law, they are responsible for injuries caused by the dog through biting or otherwise. Also, under the Dog Law, if the dog is a “dangerous dog” (a dog that attacked and caused severe injury, or was considered “dangerous” in the past), the owner is responsible for all the harm that dog caused, including pain and suffering, scarring, and medical bills. Harboring or keeping a “dangerous dog” can also lead to criminal charges against the owner. Even where an owner has not violated any law, and where the dog was not “dangerous” or did not cause severe injury, the owner is financially responsible for the cost of medical treatment caused by the dog biting or causing harm to someone.
