Dog Walking Insurance UK - Business Quotes
What type of dog walking business cover can be provided?
When it comes to dealing with other peoples pets, the owner is trusting you to be responsible and to care and protect their pet to the best of your ability. In addition the will expect your walking business to have the correct level of dog walking insurance to pay out should that need arise.
How much does dog walker Insurance cost?
Each business will have its own individual and unique circumstances as such the best dog walking insurance policy can be tailored to the needs of your business. There are a few key factors that can influence the premium price quoted. Post code is one of these as some areas are more prone to crime than others, take city centers for an example. The other key factors are listed below.
On average insurance will cost in the region of GBP125 upwards, depending on the type and level of cover that you choose to include. Below we have listed some of the key factors used by underwriters in determining your individual premium.
Fully disclose any past claims
If by chance you have previously made a claim on any dog walking insurance policy, or any legal action has been undertaken against you or your pet walking business in the past, this may affect your quote. Failure to fully disclose any pertinent details to your broker may invalidate any claim that you subsequently may make.
How you can avoid making claims against your canine walkers insurance policy
Most claims involve pedestrians that are walking or running taking the animal by surprise which can result in the dog nipping or biting the poor pedestrian. Here are some tips and advise to reduce your risk
Bites are not the only reason for making insurance claims, animals are unpredictable and even the most experienced hound handler can find them selves in a situation that they could never have anticipated , as such it is vital that you a good policy in place.
What type of Insurance do I need for walking hounds?
A typical dog walking insurance policy will contain the following. If you wish you can cover many other risks that are inherent to running a pet walking business, for example veterinarian expenses reimbursement (regardless of fault)
This type of policy will provide public liability cover with both ‘care, custody & control’ and ‘non-negligent’ amendments. This type of policy will protect you against things that could go wrong as you perform your trade of walking people’s dogs.
Every businesses has inherent risks, when dealing with animals the risks are more apparent with personal injury top of the list. Be aware that the owner can have very strong bonds with their pets and if any injury to their pet happen whilst in your care the owner they will have no hesitation in holding you personally responsible.
By laws: A quck look at the legal side for a professional walker
The UK has stipulated many many rules related to walking dogs, many are good and many more are contentious. Limiting the number of hounds that you may walk seems very arbitrary and punitive, others like being responsible for keeping the footpaths and green areas etc clean from fouling are without doubt good.
The arguments no doubt will rage on amongst animal lovers, for example is walking 6 small puppies more of a hazard than walking 5 large Alsatians and what happens any puppies that have to be left behind? For any dog walking business this guide for professional pet walkers is the definitive guide to staying on the right side of the UK law and how to take out the appropriate level of cover for your business.
Please take note that rules vary and will depend upon your local council. As such do check with them first for the latest rules and regulations that relate to your pet walking service.
Did you Know the Top 5 Most Popular Big Dog Breeds in the UK?
Labrador Retriever
German Shepard
Golden Retriever
Boxer
Border Collie
Should I start a pet walking business?
The average salary of a professional canine walker is presently 20% more that the average UK working class salary. There’s no doubt that it’s a viable and potentially profitable business. Important for one to remember here is that it’s just that a business. As such, you will have to acquire all of the entrepreneurial skills that are needed to run a successful business. In addition to these skills you will also need adequate dog walking insurance. This will not only protect you and your customer's pets, but will help ensure that your business will survive any unforeseen claims.
In the UK the pet sitting business is also a growing sector and if you intend providing pet minding service take a look at the pet sitting insurance options that are currently available.
Unlike the various types of business insurance that are geared to retail shops or office based services this type of cover is specifically designed to cover you when working with animals.
Love animals and wish to be your own boss? If the answer is yes why not consider setting up either a canine walking business or a pet sitting service. With so many pet lovers in the UK this type of business can easily succeed. Set up costs are minimal no need for a web site initially a phone will suffice and google calendar to record bookings and your schedule.
If you make your living as a professional pet walker it is important to have dog walker insurance. This type of policy will not only cover the liabilities that are associated with this trade, but it can make your business appear more professional, and will give you real peace of mind.
There is much emotional and financial responsibility when working with folk’s beloved pets in this trusted position. Having correct level of cover will help you to sleep better at night knowing that in the event of a mishap, you’re covered.