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It is strongly advised that anyone in the UK who is running a professional pet sitting business should take out pet sitting insurance. This advice should also be considered by those who are pet sitting on an amateur basis.
Professional pet sitting is considered a relatively low-risk activity, but the risks that can present themselves for the person who is responsible for a clients’ pet(s), and in many cases the clients’ home, can be significant.
What is Pet Sitter Insurance?
Pet sitter insurance is designed to protect you financially against claims that may arise due to accidents while you are pet sitting. As a pet sitter, pet boarder, or animal minder, you are responsible for the safety of your clients’ animals and their actions while in your care.
What sort of insurance do pet sitters need?
Public LiabilityÂ
Public liability insurance covers you in the event you are sued by a third party (e.g., a member of the public) for injury or damage to their property. This cover includes the legal costs associated with defending yourself in court, as well as any damages deemed payable.
For example, if a dog in your care damages a third party’s property, your client may hold you liable and ask you to cover the cost of repairs or replacement. Public liability is often the first type of insurance professional pet sitters consider, especially those just starting out.
Employers LiabilityÂ
If you employ anyone in your pet sitting service, even temporarily or on a voluntary basis, the law requires you to have employers’ liability insurance. This policy protects you against claims made by employees for property damage, injury, or illness that occurs while working for you.
Care, Custody & ControlÂ
This is one of the most critical aspects of pet sitter insurance. It provides coverage for your clients’ pets and personal property while they are under your care, custody, or control. This includes pets being transported in a vehicle or pet taxi.
Equipment Cover
If you board animals in your home, you’ll likely use additional supplies such as leashes, toys, and emergency medical equipment. Equipment cover ensures that if your tools of the trade are lost or damaged, you can make a claim to help with replacement costs.
Non-Negligent CoverÂ
Non-negligent cover protects you against accidental loss, injury, illness, or death of an animal in your care through no fault of your own.
For instance, if an animal in your care injures itself and requires treatment, non-negligent cover helps protect you against the associated costs.
What is the cost of pet sitting insurance?
The cost of pet sitting insurance typically ranges from £5 to £6 per month. However, prices can vary depending on the level of cover you choose and the specific risks associated with your business.
While cheaper alternatives may be available, it’s essential to ensure they offer comprehensive coverage for all the scenarios you might encounter as a pet sitter. Paying slightly more for a policy that includes critical protections, such as emergency vet bills and public liability, is often a worthwhile investment.
Typical scenarios you might need pet sitting insurance
Pet sitting involves a variety of responsibilities and risks, which is why having the right insurance is essential. Here are some common scenarios where pet sitting insurance can provide vital support:
Emergency vet bills
If an animal in your care is injured or falls ill, even through no fault of your own, you may be held responsible for covering emergency veterinary costs. For instance, a dog might swallow a foreign object during a walk, requiring immediate treatment.
Damage caused by animals
If a pet you are looking after damages property—such as chewing through furniture, scratching doors, or breaking valuable items—you could be liable for the cost of repairs or replacements.
Injury to a third party
A pet in your care could accidentally injure someone, such as knocking over a passerby or biting a visitor to your home. Public liability insurance covers legal and compensation costs in such situations.
Loss or theft of pet
If a pet escapes or is stolen while under your care, insurance can cover the costs of locating and recovering the animal, as well as any potential compensation claims from the owner.
By protecting yourself against these scenarios, pet sitting insurance ensures peace of mind and allows you to focus on providing exceptional care to your clients’ pets.
Where can I buy Pet Sitting Insurance from?
Whilst several providers may offer pet sitting insurance, it’s important to check whether they provide specialist cover for the typical scenarios you might face. Providers such as Protectivity can offer the specialist cover you need. Look at their reviews to confirm their credibility and ensure they are a trusted choice.
Get your Pet Sitting Insurance today
Now you know what it is you need; you are all set to purchase your Pet Sitting Insurance. At Protectivity, we can provide all the above in one comprehensive policy.
Use our quick quote system to get your complete Protectivity Pet Sitting Insurance cover in just a few minutes.
Protectivity is a specialist in niche commercial, leisure and lifestyle insurance. Our extensive product offering includes pet business insurance, hairdressing insurance, gym insurance and insurance for personal trainers.
Get Pet Sitting Insurance from Protectivity
*Disclaimer – This blog has been created as general information and should not be taken as advice. Make sure you have the correct level of insurance for your requirements and always review policy documentation. Information is factually accurate at the time of publishing but may have become out of date.Â
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