If you are thinking of, or already run, a pet business, setting up properly and ensuring legal compliance will be a priority. Part of this process will involve getting appropriate insurance cover.
However, it is important to ensure your business is set up correctly. This post aims to help by examining what you need to know when starting out as a professional dog walker.
Is pet business insurance necessary?
However careful you are, accidents and incidents can occur – irrespective of a pet’s training or your level of experience.
In some circumstances, having insurance can be a legal requirement. This will be true if, for example, you have any employees or volunteers working for you.
Even small incidents have the potential to result in sizeable financial claims against you or your business, so it makes sense to insulate yourself against such a possibility.
In addition, if a claim proceeds to the courts, you will either have to take time off work to deal with the legal proceedings or employ a solicitor to represent you.
Insurance can help cover these costs and mitigate issues. If you are unable to pay a court order for compensation and the associated costs, your business and assets could be at risk.
In addition, clients will be placing a lot of trust in you. Being able to show that you have insurance in place is a demonstration of your commitment to responsible practice, and will help allay any fears potential clients may have.
What insurance does a pet business need?
Several types of insurance may be needed, depending on how you operate your business.
Public liability insurance
You should have public liability insurance. This protects you in the event a pet in your care causes injury or damage to another person or their property.
Accidents and injury insurance
You will need accidents and injury insurance to cover your legal liability for injury to animals in your care, custody or control, whether it’s your fault or not.
What other forms of insurance should I consider?
Employer’s liability insurance
Employers’ liability insurance covers you if an employee (current or former) suffers harm as a result of working for you.
This insurance is a legal requirement if you employ anyone. However, it’s important to note that the definition of ‘employee’ includes anyone who is working with you for free or as a trainee.
If you don’t have proper insurance in these circumstances, you can be fined for each day you are without it.
Other types to look out for
You should also consider insurance to cover:
- any property you operate from, or vehicle you use to transport pets in your care
- any equipment you use as part of your business
- vet fees that may arise, if emergency treatment is needed
- liability for any damages that arise due to negligence
- accidents that occur while working that result in you being injured
Depending on how you operate, you may also need to consider insuring against:
How do I get all these types of insurance?
A reliable pet insurance provider will be able to offer a comprehensive insurance package that includes standard types of insurance alongside optional extras.
The cost will depend on the exact nature of your business and annual turnover. You can normally get an online quote in a matter of minutes.
Reliable pet business insurance providers
Finding an insurer you can trust, and who understands the many aspects of your business is an important part of getting the right insurance.
As established industry experts, Pet Business Insurance has the knowledge and experience you need to ensure your business is ready for all eventualities.
Whether you’re setting up a new dog walking business, or you’re an established horse sitter looking to renew your cover, our extensive range of core products and options allow us to tailor your policy for your unique needs.
We also include free extras, such as loss of money and travel costs cover.
To discuss your pet business insurance requirements, get in touch with our team today. Call 01284 736 874, or complete our online enquiry form.