In N.J. Pet Sitter Lawsuit, Debate Over ‘Independent Contractor’ Status

A recent court ruling in New Jersey focused on the question of whether a plaintiff who was bitten by a dog while working as a part-time pet sitter can be described as an “independent contractor.” The plaintiff, Hillary Aiges, agreed to take care of her neighbor’s golden retriever while they were on vacation, in exchange for $300. But while at the woman’s home, the dog bit and injured her when she tried to pick up a napkin. The plaintiff then brought a dog-bite case against the dog’s owners.