Champagne v. Spokane Humane Society

John and Roxie Champagne brought this action on behalf of their minor son, John, against the Spokane Humane Society for personal injuries resulting from the attack on John by a dog (a pit bull). The trial court dismissed the claim on summary judgment holding the action against the Society was barred by the public duty doctrine.

The Champagnes appeal, contending the trial court erred in granting summary judgment because (1) the public duty doctrine is inapplicable—the Society is not a governmental entity and (2) if the public duty doctrine applies, the circumstances are such that they fall…