Pet Boarding Insurance
Are you running a pet boarding business and looking for specialist insurance protection? At Chris Knott Insurance, we understand the unique risks faced by businesses caring for other people’s beloved pets. Our dedicated Pet Boarding Insurance provides comprehensive cover for kennels, catteries, home boarders, and pet sitting services, offering protection against the specific challenges and liabilities that come with looking after animals in your care.
What is pet boarding insurance and who needs it?
Pet boarding insurance is a specialised type of commercial insurance designed specifically for businesses that temporarily care for other people’s pets. Whether you operate a large
commercial kennel or cattery, run a smaller home boarding service, or offer pet sitting in owners’ homes, having the right insurance is essential for protecting your business, your clients, and the animals in your care.
This type of insurance is vital for any business that sources overnight accommodation or daytime care for pets, including:
- Kennels and catteries – Purpose-built facilities with multiple units for housing dogs and cats require comprehensive cover due to the number of animals under your care and the physical premises involved.
- Home boarders – If you welcome pets into your own home while their owners are away, you face unique risks within your domestic setting that need specific insurance protection.
- Pet sitters – Professionals who visit pets in their owners’ homes still need insurance cover for the responsibilities they undertake while caring for animals.
- Doggy daycares – Businesses sourcing daytime care and socialisation for dogs face particular risks with multiple animals interacting in one space.
Without proper insurance, you could face significant financial losses if an animal is injured, becomes ill, or causes damage while in your care.
What does pet boarding insurance cover?
Our pet boarding insurance policies can be customised to your specific business needs, typically including:
Care, Custody and Control cover
This essential cover protects you if an animal in your care is injured, falls ill, or dies due to negligence. It can cover veterinary fees and compensation to pet owners for incidents that occur while pets are under your supervision.
Public Liability Insurance
This protects your business if a member of the public or client suffers an injury or property damage related to your business activities. For example, if a dog in your care escapes and causes a traffic accident, or if a client slips and falls while dropping off their pet.
Employers’ Liability Insurance
If you employ staff, even part-time or casual workers, this legally required cover protects you against claims from employees who may become ill or injured because of their work.
Buildings and Contents Insurance
Covers your premises and business equipment against risks like fire, flood, theft and accidental damage, ensuring your business can re
Business Interruption Cover
Source financial support if your business cannot operate due to an insured event, helping to cover ongoing costs and lost revenue during the recovery period.
Legal Expenses Cover
Offers protection against the costs of legal proceedings related to your business, including employment disputes and regulatory investigations.
Every pet boarding business has unique requirements, which is why we create tailored policies rather than off-the-shelf solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Standard business insurance policies rarely provide adequate protection for pet boarding businesses. The unique risks involved in caring for animals require specialised coverage that understands the nature of your work.
Regular business policies typically don’t address key aspects of pet boarding operations, including:
- The responsibility for living animals in your care
- The potential for injuries between animals
- The risk of pets escaping or being stolen
- Specialised equipment and facilities needed for animal care
- The emotional and financial value pets hold for their owners
Our tailored pet boarding insurance understands these unique characteristics and covers all aspects of your pet care business activities.
The cost of your pet boarding insurance will depend on several factors:
- Business size – The number of animals you care for at one time significantly impacts your premium, as larger operations generally present more risk.
- Experience and qualifications – Formal training and a proven track record in animal care can positively influence your insurance costs.
- Security measures – Proper security systems, escape-prevention protocols, and fire safety equipment can help reduce premiums.
- Claims history – Previous insurance claims may affect future premiums, making risk management particularly important.
- Type of animals – Insuring exotic pets or certain dog breeds may incur additional premiums due to increased risk factors.
- Services offered – Additional services like grooming, training, or transportation may require extended coverage.
While comprehensive coverage is essential, there are several ways to manage your premium costs:
- Implement robust safety protocols – Well-documented procedures for emergencies, animal handling, and conflict prevention demonstrate your commitment to risk management.
- Invest in security – Secure fencing, appropriate locks, CCTV, and alarm systems can reduce the likelihood of theft or escape incidents.
- Staff training – Regular training for all employees ensures consistent care standards and reduces the risk of accidents.
- Membership of professional bodies – Affiliation with recognised industry organisations often signals quality standards that insurers view favourably.
- Choose an appropriate excess – Opting for a higher voluntary excess can lower your premium costs, though you’ll need to be prepared to pay more in the event of a claim.
