Nurse Awarded $61K After Dog Attack in Halifax Home

A Nova Scotia court ruled a couple negligent for failing to control their dog, resulting in injuries to a visiting nurse.

The incident occurred in May 2016 when nurse Lynn Patterson was attacked by a Valley bulldog while visiting a patient's home in Spryfield, N.S.
Despite prior arrangements to secure the dog, Patterson was bitten on the arm and back as she was leaving the residence.
The nurse required hospital treatment for physical injuries and has since needed ongoing psychological care due to the attack.
Justice Christa Brothers awarded Patterson nearly $61,000 in damages and $4,000 in court costs, citing the couple's failure to respond to legal actions.
The couple, Harvey Hayden and Susan Forrest, claimed they were unaware of the lawsuit but were found negligent and have stated they cannot pay the awarded amount.