Animal & Equine Law

Animal law is a broad practice area encompassing statutes and laws that affect non-human animals. Galloway Johnson Tompkins Burr & Smith’s animal law attorneys go way above and way beyond in advising and partnering with clients in legal issues, including disputes over ownership, breeding rights, breaches of contract, and formulation of pet trusts. For liability issues, Galloway’s animal law attorneys tackle defense of injuries arising from animals such as dog bite claims and damage to property by livestock. 

As pet owners ourselves, and with Galloway’s charitable contributions to several pet adoption and animal advocacy groups, we understand the importance and value of pets and animals, working inside and outside the courtroom to protect what matters most. 

Within the animal law field, the equine industry presents a variety of unique legal considerations and challenges for horse owners, breeders, state and national organizations, businesses, facilities, veterinarians, and their respective insurers. 

In all aspects of equine law, Galloway equine lawyers go way above and way beyond bringing their personal background and involvement with horses to efficiently and competently handle specialized and specific legal needs with the “horse sense” only a true equine practitioner can identify. 

Within this specialized field and our extensive background knowledge, we champion our animal and equine law clients with the following matters:

• Defend or resolve alleged breach of duties owed by trainers, stable owners, sales agents, or veterinarians
• Represent individuals, businesses, or organizations in litigation arising out of property damage or bodily injury resulting from equine activities
• Advise insurers on questions of coverage related to the use of specific equine and agribusiness products, including but not limited to mortality, loss of use, major medical, and agricultural operations
• Advise or represent equine associations and industry organizations regarding member disputes and rule challenges
• Represent and advise individuals in administrative disciplinary proceedings before organizations governing recognized equestrian competitions
• Assist with drafting and negotiating industry animal and equine law contracts, including but not limited to breeding, boarding, and sales