Running a pet business can be a rewarding way to spend time doing something you love. But it’s important to make sure your business is properly set up and operating correctly.
If you’re wondering what pet business insurance is, and why you need it, this post looks at some of the options and what they mean for you.
Do I need pet business insurance?
If you are running a pet business, you will need insurance. In some cases, it may be a legal requirement. Even if it isn’t, it’s still important to have insurance in case something goes wrong.
Having insurance also helps provide peace of mind and reassurance to clients.
What does pet business insurance cover?
There are several types of insurance that cover different aspects of your business.
- public liability insurance
- accident and injury insurance
Public liability insurance
Public liability insurance covers you and your business in the event something your business does causes damage to someone else’s property or causes someone harm or injury.
This covers situations with clients or members of the public. For example, if you’re out walking dogs and a member of the public is knocked to the floor by an animal in your care, you’d be covered for any subsequent legal costs and compensation.
Accident and injury insurance
If you’re a dog walker you should have accident and injury insurance. This will protect your business if you lose one of the dogs in your care, or they suffer an injury – even if it’s not your fault.
What other types of insurance might I need?
Any requirement for other types of insurance will depend on the nature of your pet business.
You are legally required to have employers’ liability insurance if you employ anyone. This extends to friends and volunteers who may just be ‘helping out’. You can be fined for every day you don’t have it in place.
You should also consider equipment insurance to cover any losses or damage, and ensure you have a way to mitigate the financial consequences of losing clients’ keys if you visit their property in their absence.
If you hold or participate in events, such as pet parties, you should also make sure you have insurance to cover any eventualities specific to the demands of setting up or taking part.
It’s easy for a small incident to result in an expensive claim for damages against you. If you can’t pay, your business and assets may be at risk.
If you’re not sure about which insurance products are best for you, it is important to speak to a specialist pet business insurer.
How much does pet business insurance cost?
This will depend on a few factors. These include:
- the size of your business
- the value of your equipment
- whether you employ anyone (and if so, the number of people)
- where you work
- whether you have a claims history.
The type of insurance you need and the level of cover you choose will also play a part. You’ll need to obtain a quote to get a clearer idea.
Choosing a reliable pet business insurance company
When it comes to the needs of businesses that provide services for pets and their owners, an insurer who knows the challenges and risks of the sector will offer business owners a distinct advantage, by potentially saving them time, money and stress.
Pet Business Insurance are established veterans of the industry, with more than two decades of experience. We specialise in providing insurance expertise and products to small- and medium-sized pet businesses.
Whether its general business insurance, such as public liability and accident and injury cover, or policy packages for business specialisms, such as horse sitting or greyhound training – we can provide competitive, comprehensive cover when you need it.
As a policyholder, you’ll also get access to three free online video consultations with a qualified vet, through our Vet On The Net programme.
To discuss your pet business insurance requirements, get in touch with our friendly and knowledgeable team today. Call 01284 736 874, or complete our online enquiry form.