Pet Sitting Insurance: Guide to Protect Your Pet Care Business

🐾 Why Pet Sitting Insurance Matters

Whether you’re just starting out or have been caring for pets for years, pet sitting insurance is essential. You’re not just walking dogs or feeding cats, you’re being trusted with beloved family members.

Without insurance, one unexpected accident could lead to:

• Medical bills if a pet is injured.
• Property damage claims from a client.
• Legal costs if you’re sued.

Real Story: Sarah, a pet sitter from Oregon, had to pay $3,200 out-of-pocket after a dog she was walking bit a passerby. She didn’t have insurance, something she now regrets.

Takeaway: Insurance gives you peace of mind, protects your finances, and shows clients you take your job seriously.

🐶 What Does Pet Sitting Insurance Cover?

Pet sitting insurance is designed to shield you from common risks you face in the field. Here’s a breakdown of what most policies include:

Coverage Type	What It Protects Against	Example Scenario
General Liability	Injury or property damage caused during pet care	A dog breaks a vase at a client’s home
Animal Bailee Coverage	Injury, loss, or death of a pet under your care	A cat escapes and gets hurt
Property Damage	Accidental damage to a client’s belongings	You spill water on a laptop while pet sitting
Medical Payments	Medical costs if someone is hurt	A neighbor trips over your leash
Lost Key Coverage	Replacement costs if you lose a client’s key	You misplace a key and need to change the lock
Defense Costs	Legal fees if you’re taken to court	You’re sued after a dog bites another animal

Not all policies are the same. Some providers offer added options like:

• Bonding coverage (protects against theft allegations)
• Coverage for multiple employees or subcontractors
• Mobile app access for certificates and claims

🧠 How to Choose the Right Pet Sitting Insurance Provider

Don’t pick the first policy you see. Take the time to find one that fits your needs and budget.

🛠 What to Look For:

1. Specialized in pet businesses: Choose companies that understand the pet care industry.
2. Flexible plans: Can you choose monthly or annual payments?
3. Add-ons: Do they offer extra coverage like grooming, pet taxi services, or house sitting?
4. Customer service: Are they easy to reach if something goes wrong?
5. Fast claims process: Read reviews—how quickly do they pay?

Top Providers to Consider:

Company	Pros	Best For
Pet Care Insurance	Affordable, made for solo sitters	New pet sitters
Pet Sitter’s Associates	Offers bonding, broad coverage	Sitters with multiple services
Business Insurers of the Carolinas	Trusted by pet pros	Long-term professionals
Verifly (Thimble)	Flexible, short-term coverage	Sitters with seasonal gigs

🔗 Tip: Always read the fine print and make sure your services are fully covered.

🤔 FAQs: Pet Sitters Ask, We Answer

1. Do I really need insurance if I only sit for friends or neighbors?

Yes. Accidents can still happen, even if you know the pet well. A bite, lost key, or property damage can still result in expensive claims.

2. Is pet sitting insurance expensive?

Most solo pet sitters pay $15–$30/month for basic coverage. That’s less than a daily coffee habit, and way cheaper than a lawsuit.

3. What if I walk dogs too?

Most policies cover walking, feeding, and basic care. If you offer training or grooming, make sure to check your policy.

4. Do I need bonding too?

Bonding is useful if you’re entering homes unsupervised. It protects you if a client accuses you of theft, even falsely.

💡 Real-Life Tips for Pet Sitters Buying Insurance

Here’s what experienced sitters say they wish they knew sooner:

• Keep records of your visits (time in, time out, pet behavior, photos). It helps if there’s a dispute.
• Inform your clients that you’re insured. It builds trust and sets you apart.
• Update your coverage as your business grows, especially if you hire helpers.
• Bundle your coverage if you offer multiple services. It can save you money.

🔍 Pet Sitting Insurance vs General Liability Insurance

Feature	Pet Sitting Insurance	General Business Liability
Tailored for pet care	✅ Yes	❌ No
Covers animal injuries	✅ Yes	❌ Not usually
Includes lost key & bailee	✅ Often	❌ Rare
Cheaper for solo sitters	✅ Usually	❌ More expensive

👉 Bottom line: Pet-specific insurance gives you better protection for the work you do.

📝 Action Steps: How to Get Insured Today

Ready to protect your business? Here’s what to do:

1. Make a list of your services (walking, overnight care, grooming).
2. Get 2–3 quotes from trusted providers.
3. Compare coverage, look beyond the price.
4. Check reviews from other sitters.
5. Apply online, many policies take less than 15 minutes to activate.

Pro Tip: Bookmark your provider’s certificate and keep it on your phone. Clients love to see it!

🐕 Final Takeaway: Protect Yourself, Your Clients, and the Pets You Love

Pet sitting is more than a side hustle, it’s a service built on trust, love, and responsibility. Having the right insurance means you can show up with confidence, knowing you’re covered if anything goes wrong.

So take the step. Protect your work. Let insurance be your silent partner, always there, just in case.

✅ Your Next Step

🔒 Ready to get covered? Compare top pet sitting insurance plans now and protect your business in minutes.

Read more about 🐾 The Legal Side of Pet Sitting: Insurance, Contracts & Safety Tips