Pet Liability Insurance

Owning a pet should not be a trial, but some animals create more stress for their owners than others. Dogs probably rank #1 on the list of animals around which you should exercise extreme caution. If you own a dog that does not do well around strangers, you might want to consider pet liability insurance, also known as third party liability insurance.

This type of policy covers any damage done by your dog (or other type of pet) to another person or property. If your dog tends to bite other people and/or animals, you will need to properly restrain the animal, typically in a fenced pen with chain link that is at least 6 feet high. You will also likely be required to post a warning about your animal, displayed prominently and in large lettering.

Taking such protective measures BEFORE your dog attacks another person or animal is a wise decision. It can also lower the cost of a pet liability insurance policy if the measures are in place prior to the need - this demonstrates responsibility on the part of the owner and a genuine concern for the welfare of others.

Eliminating the need for lawyers becoming involved is another benefit of taking precautions in the kenneling of your dog, and making sure that the public and other animals are protected against attacks and injuries.

What would happen to your dog if it should bite a person or damage their property, or even another dog? It would depend upon whether or not this was your dog's first offense. Typically, the first time a dog bites someone, the owner is required to confine the dog for a period of time and a report is filed with the local animal control officer.

Subsequent offenses can mean lifetime confinement for the dog (a secure penned area) and restrictions as to where the dog is allowed to walk and in what manner the dog is to be walked. An example would be that the dog, having bitten a person, is now required to wear a muzzle at all times when being walked by its owner - and that the dog must also be on a leash at all times when being walked.

As this type of coverage is less common than, say, a liability policy for automobiles, it can be quite expensive. Shopping around for coverage is a good idea and the Internet is an excellent tool.

Another option in terms of insurance is health insurance for your pet. This typically does not cover as much as a human health policy, and can also be expensive. If you have a pet that has multiple health problems, this may be a good option for you.

Ultimately, though, pet liability insurance is a good idea, if for no other reason than to protect your assets against any potential harm done by your dog or other pet.