A Westminster couple is staring down thousands of dollars in veterinary bills after their dog was badly hurt in an attack earlier this month, turning a frightening incident into a financial gut punch.
Emergency treatment and ongoing care for the seriously injured dog have already added up to "thousands" in charges, the owners told FOX31 Denver. The station's video report shows the animal in recovery while the couple explains how quickly the bills began to pile up.
Reporting the Attack and Local Rules
In Westminster, an animal bite that breaks the skin is not just a personal nightmare, it is a reportable incident. City rules require anyone in that situation to contact Westminster Animal Management or the Colorado Department of Public Health.
According to Westminster Animal Management, a report can trigger inspections, veterinary exams and a formal review to decide whether a dog should be classified as potentially dangerous. The city also outlines quarantine procedures, evaluation steps and possible enforcement actions once an incident is on the books.
State Law and Liability
Colorado has tightened its dangerous-dog statute in recent years, broadening the kinds of incidents that can lead to criminal penalties and extra oversight. As noted by the Colorado General Assembly, the changes are focused on public safety when dogs cause serious harm.
That tougher stance does not automatically extend to civil costs such as vet bills, which means families facing steep medical expenses for an injured pet still have to navigate separate legal and financial avenues to try to recover money.
Why Vet Bills Are Rising in Denver
Sticker shock at the animal hospital is not unique to this family. Veterinary costs across the Denver metro have climbed sharply over the past decade. 303 Magazine reports that prices are up roughly 60% in that period, a trend that makes any emergency surgery or long-term follow-up care a serious financial decision.
The Westminster couple told FOX31 Denver they are now exploring ways to cover the mounting veterinary costs while they weigh their legal and financial options.
Anyone who witnessed the attack, or who is dealing with an animal incident of their own, can find reporting instructions and an overview of local rules through Westminster Animal Management.
