On Aug. 16, 2011, plaintiff Craig Aikens, a 4-year-old boy, was being cared for by his babysitter. Unbeknownst to Craig’s parents, the babysitter was also working for Susan and Michael Baker, providing dog sitting services for them. As a result, the babysitter took Craig to the Bakers’ home in Redondo Beach to feed the dog, but it attacked Craig, causing multiple bite marks and puncture wounds to Craig’s face. Craig, by and through his guardian ad litem, Ann Aikens, sued Susan and Michael Baker, alleging the defendants were strictly liable for the dog’s actions under California’s dog bite statute. Defense counsel contended that the babysitter was at fault for bringing Craig into the Baker’s home without their permission., Craig sustained multiple bite marks and puncture wounds to his face. He was immediately taken to Torrance Memorial Medical Center, where a plastic surgeon sutured Craig’s facial wounds, which required approximately 45 stitches to close. Plaintiff’s counsel contended that in addition to the physical , Craig suffered from emotional trauma and required therapy from two separate therapists to deal with his now pronounced fear of dogs. Defense counsel contended that Craig’s wounds healed beautifully and that Craig’s psychological trauma was not as severe as alleged.