Doggy Day Care: When a Dog Bites

Leaving your canine at a doggy daycare can benefit your dog and help them grow into amazing and social dogs that can flourish. Of course, there are situations where things can go wrong.

Scenario

Jenn had to go on a business trip, but she could not take her dog Harvey, a Lab mix, with her. She searched for doggy daycare services to watch Harvey while she was away. Jenn finds a service called Dana’s Doggy Daycare, where she makes a reservation to have Harvey stay there. 

While Harvey was at the daycare, a new independent contractor, Bob, meaning that the person was not a true employee, was trying to leash Harvey when Harvey resisted. Because of this, none of the Day Care’s insurance protected him, 

Although Bob had assured Dana that he had years of experience, it became evident that he did not. 

Bob cornered Harvey and got down on his knees, and approached Harvey straight on. Typically, Harvey is easygoing, but he is in a new situation, away from his owner, and very stressed.

Bob eventually got to Harvey and reached up to put the collar on, but then Harvey bit Bob in the face.

The Claim 

Since Dana’s Daycare did not cover Bob, he sued Jenn simply because Harvey bit him and he needed plastic surgery. Fortunately, Jenn had a canine liability policy as her homeowner’s policy did not cover off-premises incidents. Even though Harvey was not under the control of Jenn, the canine liability policy paid the $75,000 in medical bills, an attorney to defend Jenn, and a settlement since the bite left permanent scarring.

Possible Solutions 

Find the best doggy daycare with a good reputation. Reviews would be one place to start. Ensure the daycare company has true employees covered under workers’ compensation. 

Confirm that they do not have independent contractors handling your dog.

Takeaways

• Make sure you have off-premises liability on your homeowners’ or renters’ policy.
• Confirm that you are covered if your dog is being handled by anyone other than yourself or family members.

About Dog Bite Quote

At Dean Insurance Agency, we’ve provided dog owners protection since 2012, with over 10,000 policies issued. Our underwriting criteria and years of experience providing this coverage enables us to offer competitive and fair policy premiums. Our policies are available in every state except Alaska & Kentucky. The quote is free and there is NO obligation to purchase!