Losses and Lessons: Squirrel escapes dogs, who sink their teeth into Cadillac

VEHICLE INVOLVED: 1968 Cadillac DeVille

WHAT WENT WRONG: This is about the one that got away, but it isn’t about a barn-find Cobra or COPO Camaro. The owner of a 1968 Cadillac DeVille parked his classic in the garage – safe from the elements but not so safe from his dogs and their surprise playmate. When a squirrel found its way in, it was startled to see the hounds, who chased it under the Cadillac and into the engine bay. Unable to catch their prey, the dogs took it out on the Caddy, gnawing on the fender where they’d last seen the squirrel.

DAMAGE/LOSS: The passenger-side fender was covered with scratches and bite marks. Cost to repair the damage came to $740, which Hagerty paid.

LESSON: Many claims are caused by animals, often by the owner’s own pets. So unless you’re moving your car or working on it, it’s best to keep the garage doors closed, the car covered and the pets out of the garage when you’re not there. While you’re at it, make sure there is nothing nearby that a pet (or stray squirrel) can tip over onto your car.