Dog Bite Injury Claims Involving Vacation Rentals in Florida
Many Airbnb and vacation rental properties welcome pets, but that convenience can create serious risks for young children. Whether the dog belongs to the property owner, a property manager, or another guest, an uncontrolled animal can cause devastating injuries in seconds.
Children are particularly vulnerable because their height places their face, neck, and head within easy reach of a dog’s bite. These attacks often leave permanent physical and emotional scars.
At Dolan Dobrinsky Rosenblum Bluestein, LLP (DDRB), we represent families whose children have been injured by dog bites and animal attacks at vacation rentals, resorts, and other short-term lodging throughout Florida.
Florida’s Dog Bite Law
Florida has one of the nation’s strongest dog bite statutes. Under Florida Statute § 767.04, a dog owner is generally liable when their dog bites someone who is lawfully on public property or lawfully on private property, including a paying guest at an Airbnb or vacation rental.
Unlike many states, an injured person does not necessarily have to prove the owner knew the dog had previously acted aggressively.
Who May Be Responsible?
Depending on the circumstances, more than one party may be legally responsible for a child’s injuries.
Potentially liable parties include:
- The dog’s owner
- The Airbnb or vacation rental host
- The property owner
- A property management company
- A resort operator
If a property owner knew—or reasonably should have known—that an aggressive dog posed a danger to guests, premises liability claims may also apply.
Common Injuries in Pediatric Dog Attacks
Dog bites frequently cause injuries that require immediate medical treatment and long-term care.
Children may suffer:
- Facial lacerations
- Permanent scarring
- Nerve damage
- Eye injuries
- Broken bones
- Severe infections
- Emotional trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Many young victims require reconstructive or plastic surgery as they continue to grow.
Does a “Beware of Dog” Sign Eliminate Liability?
Not necessarily.
Although Florida law recognizes certain defenses involving warning signs, those protections are limited. Under Florida Statute § 767.04, a warning sign generally does not shield a dog owner from liability when the victim is under the age of six. Liability may also exist if negligence contributed to the attack despite the presence of a warning.
Every case depends on its specific facts.
Evidence Can Make a Difference
After a dog attack, preserving evidence is important. Helpful evidence may include:
- Photographs of the injuries
- Medical records
- Witness statements
- Animal control reports
- Veterinary or vaccination records
- The vacation rental listing and pet policies
- Surveillance or doorbell camera footage
Early investigation can help determine whether the owner or property operator failed to take reasonable steps to protect guests.
Contact DDRB
Dog attacks involving children can result in permanent injuries, repeated surgeries, and lasting emotional trauma. When an attack occurs at a vacation rental, families deserve answers and accountability.
The attorneys at Dolan Dobrinsky Rosenblum Bluestein, LLP investigate serious dog bite injuries involving Airbnb properties, vacation rentals, hotels, and resorts throughout Florida and fight to recover compensation for the medical care, rehabilitation, and future treatment injured children need.