Where to Get Liability Insurance for Dog Walkers
Liability insurance is something I encourage all dog walkers to have. Working with dogs involves risk. Dogs can cause damage or injury to other animals or people, or be injured by another dog, to name a few. And just one incident can cost you thousands of dollars. So paying an insurance premium (rates typically run from around $150-600 or so) is a smart move. Doing business without it may cost you much more.
On top of that, some clients will ask to see that you're insured, and you may need to provide proof of insurance to get a commercial dog walking permit in some locations. Having insurance gives both you and your clients peace of mind.
When looking for an insurance provider, be sure to check that they will cover the service you offer (many don't cover off-leash walks, for example), ask about the deductible, and make sure you understand what is covered and what is not.
Look for a policy that will cover incidents where a dog is injured while in your care, or if you accidentally cause damage to a clients home. If you board dogs in your home, find out if damage to your home or personal belongings is covered, and if you have your own pets, will any altercations between them and clients dogs be covered, for a start.
Where to Get Insurance for Dog Walking
Wondering where to get insurance for your dog walking service? Here's a list of providers that specialize in insuring dog walkers.
Before choosing an insurer, make sure you understand what the insurance will cover, not all policies are made equal. This is not an all-inclusive list, but does include the most commonly used insurance companies for the industry.
USA
Business Insurers of the Carolinas
Comparison Chart of Common Insurance Plans
UK
National Association of Pet Sitters and Dog Walkers
National Association of Registered Petsitters
Comparison Chart of Common Insurance Plans
Canada
Comparison Chart of Common Insurance Plans
