Being bitten by a dog – whether it is a street animal or a domestic animal – is not just an unpleasant incident. It is an event that can cause serious physical injuries, psychological trauma and long-lasting consequences on the victim's daily life. In practice, such cases are more common than one might think, especially in urban areas, and the legal framework in Macedonia provides a clear mechanism for compensation for damage.
The problem is that a large part of citizens do not know their rights or give up at the very beginning, thinking that "nothing can be done". That is simply not true.
What should you do first after a dog bite?
In these situations, time and reaction are key. The way you act immediately after the event directly affects the possibility of obtaining compensation later.
Medical assistance – without exception. Even when the wound looks superficial, a medical examination is necessary. Street dogs can be carriers of infections, and medical documentation is basic evidence in any compensation procedure.
Report to the police. The incident must be reported to the nearest police station. From the police, you receive a confirmation of a reported incident - a document without which further proceedings cannot be conducted. This also determines whether the dog is homeless and which entity is in charge.
Gathering evidence. Take pictures of the injuries, the clothes, the place where the attack happened. If there are witnesses - their statements are of great importance. In court or extrajudicial proceedings, evidence often makes the difference.
Who is liable for damage from a stray dog bite?
This is one of the most common questions – and the most common misconceptions. In Macedonia, the control of stray dogs is a legal obligation of the local government. The judicial practice is clear: the responsibility cannot be transferred to the citizens.
According to the legal opinion of the Supreme Court of the Republic of Macedonia, the municipality or the City of Skopje (when the event is in the territory of Skopje) and the public utility company or the legal entity entrusted with collecting the dogs are jointly liable for the damage caused by a stray dog.
This means that the victim does not have to prove who exactly "defiled", but has the right to demand compensation from the responsible entities.
What exactly can you claim compensation for?
Reimbursement does not only apply to direct costs. The law and jurisprudence recognize several bases.
Medical expenses – all expenses related to treatment: examinations, therapies, drugs, interventions, and even future medical needs related to the injury.
Pain and fear suffered – physical pain and psychological trauma are intangible damages. Courts regularly award compensation on this basis as well, especially when there is fear, anxiety or a disturbed sense of security.
Impairment – if the bite leaves a scar or permanent visible consequence, the victim has the right to special compensation, regardless of other grounds.
Reduced ability to live – if the injury affects movement, work ability or quality of life, additional compensation may be requested, determined by an expert.
What is the fee in practice?
The frequent question is: how much money can realistically be won? Honestly – there is no fixed amount in advance. Each case is special. However, there is relevant judicial and administrative practice.
In cases of being bitten by a stray dog in the area of Skopje, the payments so far usually range from 60,000 to 180,000 denars, depending on: the age of the victim, the severity of the injuries, the duration of the pain and fear and whether there are lasting consequences.
In the past years, dozens of lawsuits were filed, some ended with payment, some with a settlement, and some are still ongoing.
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Out-of-court procedure or lawsuit – Which is better
Request to the City of Skopje / municipality – The first step is usually to submit a request to the competent committee. This procedure is faster and cheaper, but the fees offered are significantly lower.
Court proceedings – Filing a lawsuit means a longer process, but in practice it often results in a higher and fairer compensation. The court values all evidence, medical findings and expert reports.
In both cases, hiring a lawyer with experience in such disputes is really necessary. This is not a bureaucratic formality, but a way to avoid costly mistakes.
What evidence is necessary
No evidence – no compensation. The basic package includes: a police certificate of a reported event, medical documentation, photographs of the injuries, any expert report and opinion, and witness statements (if any).
The more complete the documentation, the stronger the position of the injured party.
Attacks by stray dogs are not an isolated problem. They are the result of systemic failures in the control, records and treatment of animals. Jurisprudence clearly states: the citizen must not bear the damage for something that is a public responsibility.
A dog bite can leave consequences that far exceed the initial injuries. The legal system in Macedonia offers mechanisms for protection - provided that citizens use them. Being informed, reacting in time and doing the right thing is the key. Rights are not a theoretical category. They are only valid if requested.
