Dog Training Negligence Lawsuit

Summary

The users dog was injured during a board and train program at Ridgeside K9 in Maryland. The injuries were allegedly caused by the trainer taping the dogs ears too tight. The user has photos, vet reports, and videos as evidence. The liability clause in the agreement signed with Ridgeside K9 states that the owner is responsible for all injuries except those arising from gross negligence on part of Ridgeside K9. The user believes the trainers actions were grossly negligent. The owner of Ridgeside K9 denied responsibility for the injuries. The user is exploring the possibility of a lawsuit.

Full Conversation

md
What is the extent of your dog's injuries and did you sign any agreement with the board and train program?
I did sign an agreement. The injuries are open wounds and require * weeks of medication. Possible permanent damage to I one ear. I did sign an agreement, however the injuries took place during their care
What does the agreement you signed with the board and train program state about liability for injuries?
yes it does
Does the agreement specify the extent of the board and train program's liability or any exceptions to their liability?
not sure
What is the name of the board and train program? This will help me find any public information about their liability policies.
ridgeside k9
What specific actions or negligence on the part of Ridgeside K9 do you believe led to your dog's injuries?
the trainer taped the dogs ears too tight— and in contrast to how I showed him
What evidence do you have to prove the trainer's negligence? Photos, vet reports, or any other documentation could be crucial.
i have photos, vet reports, and videos which show how he posted the ears
What is the exact wording of the liability clause in the agreement you signed with Ridgeside K9?
I would have to look more closely to be honest
Could you please provide the exact wording of the liability clause once you have it? This will help in understanding the extent of Ridgeside K9's liability.
yes Liability. All behavioral advice and training suggestions are provided at the Owner's own risk. Use of this information is voluntary and neither Ridgeside K9, its employees, or Trainer is responsible for injury to another human or animal. The owner expressly understands, acknowledges and agrees that Owner is at all times responsible for the actions of the dog. Further, Owner, and not Ridgeside K9, its employees, or Trainer is responsible for any injuries or expenses resulting from socialization or training of the dog. Owner further understands and acknowledges that running may injure dogs participating in physical exercise, jumping, chasing a ball etc. Accordingly, Owner expressly hereby promises and warrants that Owner shall indemnify and hold harmless Ridgeside K9, its employees, and Trainer for all such injuries. Furthermore, I expressly and irrevocably forever waive and relinquish any and all claims against Ridgeside K9 except those arising from gross negligence on part of Ridgeside K9. I understand Ridgeside K9 is in no way responsible for the behavior of my dog during or after training. If any contract dispute between Ridgeside K9 and client goes to court and the litigation is ruled in favor of Ridgeside K9-- other party will be liable for legal expense accrued by Ridgeside K9.
Did the trainer's actions of taping the dog's ears too tight fall under the category of 'gross negligence' as per your understanding?
Yes
What evidence do you have to prove that the trainer's actions were grossly negligent?
he should have seen the injuries if he was caring for the dog
What steps did you take after discovering the injuries and did you communicate with Ridgeside K9 about the issue?
they are significant
What was Ridgeside K9's response when you communicated about the injuries?
i attempted to speak to the owner but he was not willing to listen
What was the exact response of the owner when you tried to discuss the injuries of your dog?
he claims that it was not their responsibility
What steps have you taken since the owner denied responsibility?
reaching out to see if I have a claim
What is the name of the trainer who was responsible for your dog during the program?
Trent Ashman
What was the response of Trent Ashman when you discussed the injuries of your dog with him?
he denied it completely and said he was that way when he took him. Completely false
What evidence do you have to prove that your dog was not injured before it was taken to Ridgeside K9?
I have photos of him.
What is the date and time stamp on the photos you have of your dog before it was taken to Ridgeside K9?
I can probably find same day photos
What is the exact date you handed over your dog to Ridgeside K9 for the training program?
March *
What is the exact date you noticed the injuries and took your dog to the vet?
the day he came back I saw them. I could not get in until next day
The vet can confirm the injuries
What did the vet say about the cause of the injuries?
he confirmed it was from the way the dogs ears were taped. He basically cut off circulation
Did the vet provide a written statement or report confirming that the injuries were caused by the way the dog's ears were taped?
I can get that
What is the name and contact details of your vet? This information could be crucial for your case.
Seven locks animal hospital
Potomac md
What was the response of Ridgeside K9 when you presented them with the vet's findings?
they say they aren’t responsible
What steps have you taken since Ridgeside K9 denied responsibility after you presented them with the vet's findings?
Reaching out to see if I have a case
What was the response of Ridgeside K9 when you presented them with the evidence of the vet's findings?
none
What is the exact date you received your dog back from Ridgeside K9?