If you run a pet business, you already know—there’s no such thing as an “easy” day.
You’re fielding client questions, making animals feel safe, managing a team, keeping up with the books—and somewhere in between, hoping nothing goes wrong. I’ve worked with grooming salons, boarders, mobile groomers, trainers, and more. And if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: even the best-run businesses face real risks.
This isn’t about scaring you. It’s about helping you stay prepared—because when you’ve got the right systems in place, you can breathe a little easier and focus on what you love.
Let’s dig into five insurance-related risks that every pet business owner should have on their radar.
1. Injuries to Pets in Your Care
This one hits close to home for most of us. A dog slips on a grooming table. A pet escapes from a kennel. A cat panics during handling and ends up with a minor injury.
You do everything right—secure equipment, gentle handling, trained staff—but pets are unpredictable. And when something happens under your watch, emotions run high.
What You Can Do:
- Document pet condition at drop-off (use photos or written notes).
- Walk pet parents through your service protocols and safety measures.
- Create and train your team on emergency response procedures.
- Keep your communication with pet parents clear and compassionate.
2. Customer Accidents at Your Facility
Wet lobby floors, tangled leashes, or an overexcited dog pulling its owner—these scenarios might seem minor until someone falls or gets hurt.
I’ve seen it firsthand: one slip in the wrong spot can lead to medical bills, negative reviews, and claims that eat up your time and energy.
How to Stay Ahead:
- Post clear signage: wet floor signs, restricted area markers, etc.
- Keep entryways and hallways clean and clutter-free.
- Review safety walkthroughs weekly—ideally before your busiest days.
- Have a documented process for reporting and following up on incidents.
3. Staff-Related Injuries and Mistakes
Your team is often your greatest asset—and sometimes, your most overlooked risk.
From strained backs while lifting large dogs to handling aggressive pets, employees face risks daily. Without regular safety checks and proper training, even simple mistakes can become costly.
Protect Your Team (and Your Business):
- Provide formal onboarding and regular safety refreshers.
- Post protocols in staff areas as quick-reference guides.
- Encourage team feedback about unsafe practices or burnout.
- Rotate physically demanding tasks to avoid repetitive strain.
4. Equipment Damage or Facility Shutdown
What happens if your grooming dryer shorts out mid-day? Or a burst pipe floods your daycare space overnight? Even with great coverage and a tight ship, these disruptions can cost you time, revenue, and client trust.
One of my clients had a fire start from a washer in their laundry room. Thankfully, no pets were harmed—but it took weeks to get back to full operation.
Be Ready With a Plan:
- Know who to call: electrician, plumber, contractor, IT support.
- Back up your appointment system and client files.
- Review your emergency shutdown process with your team.
- Have a backup workspace in mind—even if it’s temporary.
5. Online Reputation Damage
In today’s world, one bad review can spread faster than any flier or ad. Whether it’s warranted or not, how you handle a public complaint can make or break future bookings.
One pet trainer I worked with received a harsh, one-sided review after a canceled appointment. Their response—calm, professional, and empathetic—actually won them new clients who admired how they handled it.
Manage Your Reputation Proactively:
- Monitor reviews on Google, Yelp, and social media weekly.
- Respond to every review—especially negative ones—with grace and facts.
- Document client interactions to back up your side of the story.
- Train your staff to flag and forward any public feedback quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions from Pet Pros Like You
Here are some of the top questions I get from grooming salons, boarding facilities, and mobile businesses.
Why do I need insurance for my pet business?
Because you’re dealing with people, pets, property, and unpredictability. A small accident can lead to a big disruption. Insurance helps protect your time, money, and reputation.
What kinds of businesses do you work with?
We cover pet groomers, boarders, mobile groomers, pet shops, trainers, and vet clinics—anyone who works with animals professionally.
Is the process complicated?
Not at all. Our quote process is fast and customized. You fill out a short form, and we’ll guide you from there—no jargon, no pushiness.
Can I adjust my policy if my business changes?
Absolutely. New services, new staff, or a second location? We’ll work with you to keep things aligned.
What if something happens—how do I file a claim?
Simple. Call or email us right away. We’ll help you document it, submit it, and get it resolved quickly. We’re with you the whole way.
Final Thoughts from Zach
Running a pet business is rewarding—but it’s not easy. You’ve built something important. You deserve to protect it with confidence, not confusion.
That’s why I started Pet Business Insurance. Not to sell policies, but to stand beside professionals like you—people who care deeply about their clients, their team, and their work.
If you’re unsure whether you’re covered the way you should be, let’s talk. Even if you don’t need anything from me today, I’ll gladly help you get some clarity.
Zach Davis
Owner, Pet Business Insurance
Need a hand reviewing your risks?
Schedule a consultation with me. We’ll go through it together—no pressure, just peace of mind.
