The Principles of Legal Liability for Trespasses and Injuries by Animals

Originally published in 1915, this book discusses the complexities of the law governing cases of 'wrongs committed by means of animals'. Robson demonstrates how laws concerning damage caused by animals were formulated and how the laws were applied in his day. This book will be of value to anyone with an interest in British legal history and the development of British law.

Preface; Table of cases; Table of references; Introduction; Part I. The Classification of Animals: 1. Animals ferae naturae and animals mansuetae or domitae; 2. Dangerous animals and harmless animals; Part II. Trespass to Land; Section I. By Animals Ferae Naturae: 1. Absence of liability; 2. Liability for 'overstocking' game; Section II. By Reclaimed Animals: 1. The liability and its extent; 2. Responsibility after escape; Section III. By Animals Domitae Naturae: 1. The nature of the liability; 2. The extent of the liability; Section IV. Exceptions to the Liability; Part III. Injuries to the Person and to Other Animals, and Damage to Goods; Section I. The Absolute Duty: 1. Dangerous animals; 2. Domestic or harmless animals; 3. Proof of scienter; 4. Statutory provisions as to dogs; 5. Knowledge of servant or agent; 6. Subject of harm and place of committal; 7. Exceptions to liability; 8. Responsibility after escape; Section II. The Duty to Take Care, and Other Obligations: 1. Negligence in the control of animals; 2. Harm from straying animals; 3. Harm to persons entering on premises by invitation or permission; 4. Harm resulting from authorised use of animals.