You just finished grooming a poodle when the owner rushes back in, panicked.
The dog’s reacting to the shampoo you used. They head straight to the vet and hand you the bill.
Would your current insurance cover this?
If not, you’re not alone, and you may be missing a crucial safeguard: animal bailee insurance.
I’m Zach Davis, founder of Pet Business Insurance, and this is one of the most common questions I hear from groomers, pet sitters, and daycare providers. Let’s break down what this coverage is, what it protects, and what happens if you don’t have it.
What Is Animal Bailee Insurance?
Animal bailee insurance protects your business if a pet in your care is injured, lost, or dies.
“Bailee” is a legal term. It means you’re temporarily responsible for someone else’s property,in this case, their beloved pet. The moment that animal is in your custody, you’re legally accountable for what happens.
Why it matters:
If a dog escapes, is injured during grooming, or suffers heatstroke while in your care, you’re liable, even if you did everything right.
What Does It Cover?
Animal bailee can help cover expenses tied to incidents like:
- Grooming accidents (nicks, cuts, clipper burns)
- Allergic reactions to shampoos or products
- Lost pets during transport
- Injuries from pet fights or rough play
- Accidental death due to heat, stress, or oversight
Key takeaway: This policy can respond even when there’s no negligence involved, unlike general liability.
Who Needs Animal Bailee Insurance?
If you’re paid to care for someone else’s pet, you likely need bailee coverage. High-risk roles include:
- Pet groomers (mobile and storefront)
- Dog walkers
- Pet sitters
- Kennel operators
- Daycare facilities
- Pet transporters
Mobile groomers are especially vulnerable, think pets jumping from vans or reacting to products en route.
What Happens If You Don’t Have It?
Here’s the truth: Most general liability policies don’t cover animals in your care.
That means:
- Vet bills? Out of pocket.
- Lawsuits? You’re on your own.
- Legal fees and emotional damages? That too.
Just one incident, a bite, a lost dog, a reaction, and your business could be on the line.
Common Myths (That Put You at Risk)
- “I’ve never had a problem.”
→ Until you do. One mistake can change everything. - “Doesn’t my general liability cover this?”
→ Only if it’s endorsed for bailee, which is rare. - “I only work with friendly dogs.”
→ That won’t hold up in court. Even the sweetest pets can panic under stress.
How Much Does It Cost?
Most bailee policies run less than a cup of coffee a day.
Rates vary by:
- Number of pets in your care
- Mobile vs. on-site services
- Breed-specific risks
- Business location and offerings
Compared to a $4,000 vet bill? It’s a no-brainer.
Do You Really Need It? Use This Quick Checklist
If you answer yes to even one of these, bailee coverage might be essential:
- Do you handle pets without their owners present?
- Do you use grooming tools, chemicals, or kennels?
- Are you mobile or do you transport pets?
- Do you allow pets to interact with each other?
- Could you cover a $5,000 lawsuit today?
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
We’ve all had close calls with unpredictable pets, especially when we’re solo, mobile, or juggling multiple clients.
Now that you know what animal bailee insurance covers, and what it doesn’t- let’s make sure your business isn’t one emergency away from a financial hit.
I’m Zach Davis, and I’ve helped thousands of pet professionals protect their livelihoods.
Let’s make sure you’re one of them.
