© 2026 Michigan State University Board of Trustees
Public Media from Michigan State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Court Puts A Leash on Lawsuit By Man Bitten By Dog

Reginald Hardwick
/
WKAR-MSU

Upset about a dog bite? Sometimes it's better to keep your hand in your pocket.

Thomas Cummings was bitten by a dog when he put his hand over a fence in Holly.

But the Michigan appeals court ruled in favor of the dog's owners, saying Cummings was trespassing, even if he was standing on the other side of the fence.

In a 3-0 decision Tuesday, the court says "no reasonable juror" could conclude that Cummings had permission to put his hand over the fence, especially after the dog was running around and growling at him.

The owners said the dog was "uncomfortable with strangers."

Related Content
With federal funding eliminated, WKAR relies more than ever on community support to sustain essential services that remain freely available to everyone in mid-Michigan. Your support helps shape what comes next for public media in our region. The best way to support WKAR is by becoming a sustaining member today or by upgrading your current gift. Support WKAR TV Here | Support WKAR Radio Here.