EXCLUSIVE: Dr. Phil's Dog That's Focus Of Lawsuit Likely Killed Family Cat & Pet Rabbit
Feb. 4 2011, Published 11:00 a.m. ET
Dr. Phil McGraw's dog, a rare purebred Korean Jindo that's the focus of a stinging lawsuit from Dr. Phil's former best friend, possibly killed two of the McGraw family's others pets -- a cat and a rabbit. In addition, various skunks were found dead on the McGraw's property after the family acquired the animal.
The dog's prior presumed acts of aggression are detailed in official court papers filed by Janet Harris, who's suing the TV personality and his wife Robin McGraw for personal injuries and damages after their dog -- a female named Maggie -- allegedly attacked and injured her at the couple's mansion.
The suit also says that the McGraws "were aware that Maggie had an unpredictable temperament, had a propensity to bite and has in fact previously bitten other persons and that the family cat, a pet rabbit and various skunks had been found dead on the premises after Maggie was acquired by the McGraws."
RadarOnline.com was first to report news of the lawsuit on Thursday.
As we previously reported, Harris filed suit against the pair in Santa Monica, California, on Wednesday alleging that the couple's gross negligence resulted in serious injuries.
According to court documents obtained exclusively by RadarOnline.com, Harris was brutally mauled by the McGraw's dog without provocation or warning.
The dog bite caused uncontrollable bleeding from deep puncture wounds, as well as cuts and abrasions inflicted on her arm and hand, the lawsuit claims.
"Complications from the dog bite injuries forced Janet to seek emergency medical treatment and required extended home nursing care to recover from an incapacitating infection called pastuerella multocida," according Nagelberg Bernard Law Group, personal injury lawyers, which filed the lawsuit on behalf of the victim.
EXCLUSIVE PHOTO: Woman Suing Dr. Phil Hospitalized For Stress
"Janet spent 7 days attached to an IV as well as being prescribed steroids and antibiotics.
"The McGraw's allegedly refused to provide compensation or assistance to Janet to aid with her illness, instead leaving her to deal with mounting health problems and financial burdens alone.
"While their former best friend suffered severe physical pain and mental anguish, the McGraw's finalized the purchase of a new $29.5 million dollar Beverly Hills mansion."
Harris has previously appeared on Dr Phil's television program.
"As a result of the injuries sustained, she was unable to maintain her livelihood, culminating in the loss of her business and indefinite inability to earn a living practicing her trade," her legal team said.
The seeks compensation for general damages, medical treatment costs, loss of earnings, and pain and suffering."
Dr. Phil adopted Maggie from the pound and later discovered she is a rare purebred Korean Jindo. The dogs were bred as hunting dogs and can be highly territorial and unpredictable around strangers.