Liability cover is a must-have for any pet business, whether you’re a dog walker, groomer, pet taxi driver, trainer, or sitter.
We have two types of liability insurance in our pet business policies:
- Third-party liability
- Public liability
Third-party liability
Our third-party liability cover is designed to protect you if your pet, or an animal in your care, causes harm to someone else or damages their property.
For example, if your dog bites a passer-by or knocks over a valuable item at a friend’s home, you could be held legally and financially responsible. This type of cover helps pay for any compensation claims, medical bills, or legal costs that may come up. It’s an important layer of protection for pet owners, giving you peace of mind in case the unexpected happens.
Public liability insurance
Public liability insurance covers you if a member of the public is injured or their property is damaged because of your business activities.
Even the most well-behaved pets can act out of character, biting someone, knocking a passerby over, or damaging someone’s property. These incidents can happen suddenly and without warning, no matter how experienced or careful you are.
Without this kind of cover, you could be personally responsible for the legal costs or compensation claims that follow. These costs can quickly add up and put a real strain on your business and finances.
Liability insurance for your pet business
Whether you’re just starting out on an exciting new venture, or you’ve been running a fully-fledged and thriving business for years, you should always protect yourself with liability cover.
It’s important to think about the safety of others, whether they’re inside your business or out in the community. Plus, you don’t want to risk damaging your business’s reputation by not having the right insurance. New and existing customers need to feel confident that their pets are safe and well cared for when they’re with you.
How much does liability insurance cost for pet businesses in the UK?
Premiums vary depending on the size of your business , the services you offer, where you’re based, and any previous claims history.
Insurance costs vary widely depending on your pet business type. A solo dog walker might pay as little as £8.48 per month, while larger setups like doggy day care or boarding kennels could pay £15.95 or more. There’s no one-size-fits-all rate, so it’s best to choose a provider that understands your specific needs.*
How to get liability insurance for your pet business
To get started with liability insurance, begin by identifying the pet care services your business provides, such as dog walking, grooming, or pet sitting. This helps ensure you find cover that aligns with your day-to-day operations and the specific risks involved.
You’ll also need to have some basic business information ready, like your location, years of experience, and whether you employ staff. Once you’ve outlined your services and business details, you can explore insurance options that suit your needs, such as public liability or care and custody of animals.
Get your pet business insurance quote today
To find out more about our range of pet business policies we offer, head over to our Pet Business Insurance page.
If you have any questions, our friendly team is happy to help on 0345 982 5499.
*Pricing based on Brooks Braithwaite insurance as of April 2025. Rates may vary.