Pet Sitting Insurance

Specialist cover for pet sitters, so you can look after clients’ pets with confidence. From £8.51 per month*

Why choose us?

  • Built for pet sitters – Cover designed around how pet sitters work, whether you’re just starting out or running a team.
  • Great value – Affordable cover with no fuss, so you only pay for what your business needs.
  • 24/7 support – Our team is here to help when you need us.
  • Comprehensive cover – Protection if a pet is injured, property is damaged, keys are lost, and more.

 

What is pet sitting insurance?

Pet sitting insurance is specialist cover for anyone who looks after other people’s pets. It protects you financially if something goes wrong, such as a pet getting injured, damage to a client’s property or a lost set of keys.

Why take out pet sitting insurance?

When you’re responsible for someone else’s pet, there’s always a chance that something could go wrong. For example, if a pet in your care gets sick, injured or hurts someone you might end up paying the bill if you don’t have insurance.

What does pet sitting insurance cover?

Our tailored pet sitting business insurance policies include essential protection such as:

  • Public Liability – Sometimes called ‘pet sitting liability insurance’. It covers you if a pet in your care injures someone or damages their property, including legal fees and compensation claims.
  • Care, Custody & Control of Animals – Protects you if a pet becomes ill, is injured, goes missing or sadly passes away while in your care. It can help with vet bills or compensation to the owner.
  • Professional Indemnity – Covers claims and legal fees if a client says you made a mistake or gave poor advice while looking after their pet.
  • Employers’ Liability – Covers legal and compensation costs if an employee is injured or becomes ill while working for you. It’s a legal requirement if you take on staff

 

Cover available with Pet Sitters Insurance

Liability

Employers’ Liability

Public Liability

Professional Indemnity

Care of Animals

Care, Custody & Control of Animals

Includes the following:

– Veterinary Fees
– Death of Animal
– Loss by Theft or Straying
– Advertising & Reward
– Animals in Transit

Custodial Responsibility

Buildings & Property

Property Damage

Accidental Damage cover is available under ‘Buildings’, ‘Contents’ and ‘Stock’ sections.

Cover available:

– Buildings
– Contents
– Stock

Money

Goods in Transit

Loss or Theft of Keys

Computer and Other Business Equipment

Specified All Risks

Do I need insurance for pet sitting?

Legally, no. You don’t need insurance for pet sitting unless you employ staff, in which case employers’ liability is required by law. In practice, though, most pet sitters have insurance. Many clients expect it, and so do platforms such as Rover and Tailster. Without cover, a pet injury or damaged property could cost you far more than a policy ever would.

Read more in our blog, “Do I need pet sitting insurance?”

How to start a pet sitting business

Starting out is simpler than you might think. Here’s where most pet sitters begin:

  • Decide what you’ll offer. Visits, overnight stays in the client’s home, or a mix, and the area you’ll cover.
  • Register as self-employed. Let HMRC know you’re working for yourself.
  • Get insured. Do this before your first booking. Clients will ask for it.
  • Set your prices and terms. Be clear about rates, cancellations and what’s included.
  • Meet clients and their pets first. A short meet and greet helps you understand each animal’s routine and builds trust.
  • Promote your business. Word of mouth, local social media groups and booking platforms are all good ways to find your first clients.

If you plan to look after animals in your own home rather than the client’s, that counts as boarding and needs a licence from your local council. Our pet boarding insurance can cover that too.

 

How much is pet sitting insurance?

The cost of pet sitting insurance depends on your business. Things that can affect the price include:

  • The level of cover you choose.
  • Whether you employ staff or work alone.

Any extras you add, such as cover for equipment or other pet services.

The quickest way to find out is to get a quote online or call our friendly team on 0345 982 5499 and we’ll talk you through your options.

*From £8.51 per month is based on standard cover for a sole trader with no employees. Price correct as of October 2026.