Landlords dog may bite someone

[Andrew Brewer]

Hi Everyone, I have a California specific question.

My wife and I rent a guest house and the landlord just came to our door and asked us to sign an addendum to the lease releasing him from any liability that would arise if we were to be bitten by one of their dogs. 

The addendum states

"Tenants hereby expressly and knowingly release, discharge, and hold harmless Landlord from any and all liabilities arising from any injury, harm, loss, or other events which may occur as a result from Landlord's dogs. Tenants agree to indemnify and hold harmless Landlord against any and all losses, lawsuits or expenses by reason f the liability or potential liability of Tenants pets/dogs or arising out of any claims for damages."

I am wondering if it is legal to sign away your rights to a personal injury claim like this. The dogs are very friendly and we are not worried about being bitten, however we also want to make sure we are still protected IF anything were to happen because you never know. Does anyone have any insight into the legality of this?

[Mike Dymski]

Provide the landlord with a release if you were to bite him...quid pro quo.