ANIMAL WELFARE LAW

Legal Liability of Pet Owners: What the Law Provides for Damages and Accidents

Legal Liability of Pet Owners: What the Law Provides for Damages and Accidents

Pets are an integral part of our daily lives, offering companionship and joy. However, coexisting with a companion animal involves not only moral obligations but also significant legal responsibilities.

When a dog or another pet causes property damage, injury, or an accident, the law is clear and strict regarding who bears the responsibility. In this article, we analyze the legal framework governing animal owner liability in Greece through civil, criminal, and administrative law.

1. Civil Liability: Strict Liability of the Possessor (Article 924 of the Greek Civil Code)

Article 924 of the Greek Civil Code constitutes the cornerstone for compensation regarding damages caused by animals. The law states:

“The possessor of an animal is liable for the damage caused by it to a third party.”

The key feature of this provision is that it establishes strict (absolute) liability. This means that the owner or possessor of the animal is liable for the damage (e.g., a bite, a traffic accident caused because the animal darted onto the road, or destruction of third-party property) even if they exhibited no negligence or if the animal escaped their attention despite the measures taken.

The Exception: Animals for Professional Use or Guarding

The law provides an important exception in the second paragraph of the same article, establishing for this category what is known as quasi-strict liability, which relies on presumed fault of the possessor regarding the supervision and custody of the animal. If the animal is used for the exercise of a profession, primary sustenance, or guarding the owner’s residence (e.g., a guide dog for the blind, a livestock guardian dog, or a business guard dog), the possessor can be relieved of liability if they prove that:

  • They exercised the required care and diligence in keeping and supervising the animal, or

  • The damage would have occurred anyway, even if they had demonstrated the maximum possible diligence.

Note: Ordinary companion animals (pets) do not fall under this exception. For them, liability always remains strict (absolute).

2. Criminal Liability: When an Accident Becomes an Offense

In addition to the obligation to pay compensation (civil liability), an animal owner may also face criminal sanctions.

If a pet attacks and injures a person, the owner or handler is prosecuted for bodily harm caused by negligence (Article 314 of the Greek Penal Code). Negligence is usually established by the fact that the owner failed to take necessary precautionary measures (e.g., not keeping the dog on a leash, leaving the yard gate open, etc.).

In exceptionally severe cases, where the owner is aware of the animal’s aggressive behavior and nevertheless lets it run free while indifferent to the consequences, the act may even be classified as bodily harm with indirect intent(ενδεχόμενος δόλος).

3. Administrative Obligations & Fines (Law 4830/2021)

The modern legislative framework (Law 4830/2021 – “ARGOS” Program) specifies owner obligations aimed at protecting both animals and citizens.

The main obligations during walks include:

  • Mandatory leash use: The owner is required to keep their dog on a leash in all public spaces.

  • Control of the animal: The handler must remain in close proximity to the animal and be able to control it, ensuring it does not pose a risk to other people or animals.

  • Microchipping and Registration: The animal must carry a microchip and be registered in the National Companion Animal Registry.

Violation of these provisions incurs strict administrative fines, which are imposed regardless of whether the animal caused any damage.

What to Do in Case of an Accident

If you are the victim of an attack or damage:

  • Collect details: Immediately request the contact information of the owner or handler.

  • Identify witnesses: Obtain the phone numbers of people present during the incident.

  • Medical care & Certification: Visit a hospital or doctor immediately for wound treatment and request a written medical report.

  • Contact the authorities: Call the police to record the incident and file a formal complaint (if you choose to do so).

If you are the animal owner:

  • Offer assistance: Prioritize the victim’s health and safety.

  • Consult a lawyer: Do not make written or verbal commitments regarding financial compensation without legal guidance.

Conclusion

Pet ownership offers invaluable companionship, but it comes with absolute legal responsibility for the animal’s actions. Prevention, proper training, and adherence to safety rules are the only ways to protect those around you, your pet, and yourself from painful and costly legal disputes.

Our firm has extensive experience handling cases of civil and criminal liability arising from animal accidents. Whether you are an injured party seeking compensation or a pet owner facing legal claims, we are here to provide reliable legal support.