Michael Venuti has filed a lawsuit in Pinellas County, Florida, against Matthew Dunn and Veronica Dunn, alleging severe injuries from a dog attack. The complaint was filed on March 28, 2025, in the Circuit Court of Pinellas County by Venuti's attorney. According to the court documents, Venuti claims that he was attacked by the defendants' Portuguese Water Dog while lawfully present at their residence for work purposes on March 31, 2023.
The incident occurred when Venuti approached the Dunns' residence, and their dog unexpectedly ran out through an open front door and attacked him. The attack allegedly resulted in significant and permanent injuries to Venuti. The plaintiff accuses Matthew and Veronica Dunn of strict liability under Florida Statute §767.04 as owners and custodians of the dog. He argues that their failure to secure or restrain the animal led directly to his injuries.
Venuti is seeking damages exceeding $50,000 for various losses he attributes to the attack. These include bodily injuries, pain and suffering, disability, disfigurement, mental anguish, loss of enjoyment of life, medical expenses, lost earnings, and emotional distress. He claims these damages are either permanent or ongoing and will continue into the future.
In addition to strict liability claims, Venuti accuses the Dunns of negligence for not maintaining a safe environment free from dangerous animals. He asserts they failed in their duty to warn him about the dog's aggressive tendencies or properly secure it on their property. As a result of this alleged negligence, Venuti states he suffered serious physical injuries along with emotional trauma.
Venuti demands a jury trial on all issues presented in his complaint against Matthew and Veronica Dunn. His legal representation is provided by Justin C. Johnson & Associates P.A., with attorneys Justin C. Johnson and Kevin M. Cooper handling his case.
The case is identified under Case Number: 25-001518-CI in Pinellas County Circuit Court.