Dedicated insurance launched for pet industry

British Pet Insurance Services (BPIS) has announced the launch of a dedicated insurance for those running a pet business or service in the UK. The new offering, entitled ‘Professional’, tailors insurance to cover those in pet-specific businesses, such as dog walkers, pet sitters, home boarders, pet groomers, pet taxis, pet trainers and pet microchippers. The insurance also covers a range of animals including dogs, cats, and small mammals such as rabbits, guinea pigs, degus or ferrets. The new offering comes as the BPIS predicts a likely “boom” for pet businesses as lockdown continues to ease, with pets heading back to daycare, grooming and holiday boarding. In addition, it notes the pet care industry has “remained resistant” during the crisis, with recent statistics from Mintel revealing that UK pet owners will spend over £2bn on pet care and services by 2023. The new insurance offering allows business owners to tailor the policies to their own business. Coverage includes up to £5m in public liability, including cover for four shows or events per year in connection with the business. It also offers up to £30,000 in care, custody, and control of animal negligence cover, including injury or loss of an animal. Tailored options include loss of business stock or equipment; theft of keys, care, custody and control of animals; employers’ liability, professional indemnity, personal accidents and the loss of business cash. Andy Pearce, CEO at British Pet Insurance Services, said: “We want to help pet businesses in the UK have the best possible protection. “The impending return to work for many, as lockdown relaxes will inevitably lead to an increased demand in pet related service requirements and as part of the new measures pet businesses are putting in place they should also look at their business insurance to ensure it is right for them.” He added: “Pet businesses can tailor our insurance to their business. We want to provide a safety net, for example should the worst happen and a pet escapes or injures themselves or others; as a business owner if you are held responsible costs could run into thousands. “Having insurance provides peace of mind and financial assistance. Pet owners want the best for their pets so it’s essential to safeguard your reputation and business.”