Veterinary clinic liable for emotional damages

THE owner of a Yorkshire Terrier named Triesie that underwent a cruciate ligament repair but was badly burnt on her other leg by a hot water bottle has been awarded emotional damages against Pierre van Ryneveld Veterinary Clinic in Pretoria.

- ZELDA VENTER

Riaan Nortje turned to the Gauteng High Court, Pretoria, where he sued the vet for R400 000 for emotional distress.

Deputy Judge President Aubrey Ledwaba granted the claim for emotional shock and ordered the veterinary clinic to pay the proven damages.

Nortje also succeeded in his claim for travelling and related costs as he visited Triesie at the clinic following her injuries. The clinic was, in this regard, ordered to pay his proven damages.

His claim for R103 800 in damages following his allegations that Triesie was bought as a show dog and if it was not for her injuries she would have earned this amount through shows, was turned down.