Are you a Texas pet groomer unsure if your current insurance would actually protect you when an accident happens?
What if a routine session leads to a $2,000 vet bill, or a client falls in your salon?
This article outlines the five most common injuries that occur in Texas grooming businesses—and explains exactly which type of insurance protects you in each case. By the end, you’ll know where your coverage might be lacking, and how to close those gaps before they cost you your business.
1. Dog Bites and Scratches — The Most Expensive Grooming Injury
Even well-trained dogs can panic on the grooming table. One quick reaction can result in a serious bite or scratch.
Risk:
Groomer is injured by a pet during grooming
Typical Outcome:
Medical bills, lost time at work, possible liability exposure
Coverage Needed:
Workers’ Compensation and General Liability
Dog bites are the most common—and most expensive—claims we see. Without the right protection, these costs fall entirely on you.
2. Clipper Cuts and Burns — Small Mistakes, Big Costs
Even with the best tools and training, clippers can cause nicks or burns if a pet moves suddenly. These incidents are more common than most groomers expect.
Risk:
Skin injury from clippers
Typical Outcome:
Vet bills, negative reviews, emotional distress claims
Coverage Needed:
Professional Liability Insurance
If your policy doesn’t include this specific coverage, you’ll be responsible for the vet care and the damage to your reputation.
3. Slip-and-Fall Accidents — Inside Salons or Mobile Vans
Slippery floors, tight spaces, or distracted movement around pets can all lead to someone falling—whether it’s a client, a pet, or a delivery person.
Risk:
Someone slips or trips on your property
Typical Outcome:
Injury claims, legal costs, business interruptions
Coverage Needed:
General Liability and Commercial Property
Most standard property or auto insurance policies won’t cover this. Make sure your grooming coverage includes slip-and-fall liability.
4. Reactions to Grooming Products — When High-Quality Isn’t Enough
Even gentle or vet-recommended products can cause allergic reactions. Clients will hold you responsible if their pet has a rash, eye irritation, or worse.
Risk:
Pet has a reaction to grooming product
Typical Outcome:
Vet treatment, refund demands, formal complaints
Coverage Needed:
Product Liability or Professional Liability
Document the products you use and follow any client instructions carefully. That documentation can make or break your defense in a claim.
5. Heatstroke and Overheating — A Real Danger in Texas Heat
Grooming vans and salons can quickly overheat, especially in Texas. If a dryer is left on too long or ventilation is poor, pets are at serious risk.
Risk:
Pet overheats or suffers from heatstroke during or after drying
Typical Outcome:
Emergency vet visits, lawsuits, emotional distress claims
Coverage Needed:
Animal Bailee Coverage (specific to pet care businesses)
Many grooming policies don’t automatically include animal bailee coverage. Confirm your plan does—before it’s too late.
Is Your Coverage Really Complete?
Each of these five injuries can happen at any grooming business. When they do, they can quickly escalate from an unfortunate incident to a legal and financial crisis. The right insurance policy is what separates a manageable situation from a devastating one.
Final Thought
Texas groomers face unique risks every day. These injuries aren’t rare—and when they happen, the financial impact can be severe without the right coverage in place.
Now that you understand the most common accidents and the insurance that protects against them, your next step is simple: review your current policy or get expert help designing one that actually fits your business.
A single incident shouldn’t be what ends a successful grooming career. With the right protection in place, you can focus on what matters most—providing safe, expert care for every pet that walks through your doors.
