Pet grooming is essential for almost all pets. Professional pet grooming has various health benefits, including early detection of diseases and specific conditions. However, accidents can occur that may be out of your control. Here are common pet groomer insurance claims you need to know, and some tips on how you can avoid them. We’ll also go into which types of insurance coverages will best help pet grooming businesses, keeping you and your business safe.
1. Nail Trims
If a pet’s nails are too short, they can bleed profusely if you cut a blood vessel. This can leave an animal in pain, the owner with a hefty vet bill, and your business with an insurance claim against you.
To avoid cutting the “quick,” the pink part of the pet’s nails, use several small, precise cuts. You can also use nail clippers with a guard and invest in non-slip mats to help pets keep their footing during trims.
2. Dog Fights
It’s not uncommon for dogs not to get along with other dogs, but the results of a fight can be severe. Even minor injuries can have lasting effects on a dog. If two animals fight while in your care, or even while on your property, you could be held responsible for the altercation if an insurance claim is filed.
Keep pets on their leashes while in your grooming facility or keep them separated completely to keep yourself and all dogs safe. If possible, schedule groomings with a little wiggle room in between appointments to avoid potential altercations between clients.
3. Falls
It’s possible for a dog to fall off your grooming table and get hurt. Some dogs are more uneasy around strangers than other dogs, so they will be anxious and try to jump out of the tub where you’re washing them. Some dogs have more energy than other dogs, which can also make grooming a challenge. From broken legs to choking, there are a number of ways a fall could end in disaster.
To avoid injuries because of falls or slips, purchase guard rails and similar equipment to keep pets safe on the table. If you find that a dog is having a difficult time calming down, invest in aromatherapy shampoos that can help calm them down.
4. Car Accidents
Car accidents are always a risk if you operate a mobile grooming service. To prevent these accidents, if your client has a driveway, ask if you can park your vehicle there. If no driveway is available, find a safe location to perform your services. You can also leave your hazard lights on or use traffic barriers to make your vehicle more visible.
5. Skin Issues
Skin issues can occur because of the wrong shampoo or other products, especially if the pet has sensitive skin or certain allergies. If not cared for properly, the pet in question may develop a rash or infection based on the grooming.
To help prevent skin issues with the pets you care for, ask your clients about their pet’s special care needs, such as allergies to specific scents or ingredients. Certain breeds will also require special grooming practices, so knowing which breeds are more likely to have skin issues is a must.
Types of Insurance Policies for Pet Groomers
There are four types of insurance policies that pet groomers can get.
1. General Liability Insurance
General Liability Insurance protects against claims that are made by other people, including damage to property and bodily and personal injury. Having a General Liability policy is essential for you as a pet groomer because it protects your business from the most common risks.
2. Professional Liability Insurance
Professional Liability Insurance, also known as Errors and Omissions (E&O) Insurance, is a must-have for pet groomers. This type of coverage is ideal because it protects you from loss of earnings, disciplinary proceedings, and regulatory expenses. E&O Insurance also provides pre-claims assistance, working with business owners before a claim is even filed.
3. Commercial Auto Insurance
Commercial Auto insurance is ideal for mobile pet groomers. You will need commercial auto insurance if you use your vehicle for business purposes, such as picking up and dropping off pets. If you operate a mobile pet grooming business you will need a commercial auto insurance policy because you are operating your business out of a mobile pet grooming van or vehicle.
Commercial auto insurance helps your business cover the costs from auto accidents, helps pay for damaged vehicles including conversion (if noted on the policy), property, and medical expenses.
4. Business Owner’s Policy (BOP)
A business owner’s policy helps protect your business from unforeseen expenses that pertain to medical payments, property, and lawsuits. This type of insurance policy is ideal for small businesses whether they are new or have been around for a while.
Don’t End Up In the Dog House: Get the Insurance Coverage You Need
We at Bethany Insurance want to make sure you’re protected. Contact us today to see how our agents can give you peace of mind for your pet grooming business. We look forward to helping you!
