Overview

• In May, a fire broke out three days after Mielu’s hernia surgery, with officials citing suspected carbon monoxide poisoning from smoke inhalation.
• On August 4, the dog’s owner filed a ¥3 million lawsuit in Tokyo District Court against the animal hospital.
• The complaint accuses staff of neglecting equipment inspections and safety duties and of withholding a sincere apology, causing significant mental distress.
• Under Japanese civil law pets are treated as property, limiting compensation amounts even in cases of clear veterinary negligence.
• The case remains pending with no formal settlement or apology issued by the hospital.