Having pets at home is very common since they can be great companions. Dogs and cats are the most popular pets that people have. Dogs come in hundreds of different breeds and mixed breeds. Each species and mix has a certain temperament, and some are prone to barking or biting. Does insurance cover dog bites? What kind of insurance should you get for dog bites? When is it important to have such an insurance?
What is dog liability insurance?
Dog liability insurance is a special clause that is covered under most homeowner’s insurance. When buying a homeowner insurance plan, ensure that you mention to the insurance company that you own a dog. They will be able to give you a plan that covers bites and attacks by your dog.
If you have adopted or bought a dog after you got your insurance, approach your insurance company and inform them about the presence of a dog in your home. They will either update your policy, or give you a new one to replace the one you already have so that dog liability is covered under the insurance.
Who should get dog liability insurance?
Although you may love your pet dog and may not consider it a liability, many people do. Certain breeds of dogs are considered more of a liability since they have been known to bite and attack people more often than other breeds. Rottweiler, pit bull and certain other breeds are believed to be the more aggressive ones are usually excluded from liability insurance. Even if you do get coverage, it will be a very minimal amount.
What is covered under a dog liability insurance?
These are a few general parameters that are part of almost every major dog liability insurance plan:
- An insurance cover of anywhere between $100,000 and $300,000 is usually included in most homeowners insurance plans.
- Certain breeds that are known to be overly aggressive dogs may not be covered under most insurance plans.
- Most insurance plans only offer dog liability insurance if the attack occurs on your property.
- If you have claimed insurance for dog bite once and have the same dog at the time of renewal, your dog liability cover may be reduced or altogether removed.
It is important to ensure that you have an active dog liability insurance plan at all times to avoid having to pay up hefty medical bills in case your dog bites or attacks someone.
