CT SB00802

Repeals and replaces Section 22-357 of the general statutes regarding dog owner liability for damage to persons or property, effective October 1, 2015.

Establishes a legal presumption that a household member of a law enforcement officer assigned a police dog is not a keeper of that dog in liability actions.

Shifts the burden of proof to the plaintiff to demonstrate that the household member was a keeper of the police dog and had exclusive control of it at the time damage occurred.

Maintains existing liability protections for dog owners when damage is caused to someone committing trespass, tort, or animal abuse.

Expands the definition of "property" in dog liability cases to include companion animals and allows recovery of veterinary care expenses, fair monetary value of the animal, and burial expenses.