Make Sure Your Pet Is Insured
In each of the last two years (2015 and 2016) the number dog bite claims rose 16 percent annually. In 2016 alone, insurance companies paid out more than $600 million in claims. These claims, along with other dog-related injuries, now account for more than one-third of all homeowner liability-claim dollars.
Not surprisingly, insurance companies are tightening up homeowner insurance products related to our furry friends. In some cases, homeowners (and condo owners) can be denied insurance if they own a certain type of breed or if their pet has already been involved in an incident. In almost all cases, premiums will be higher under these circumstances.And in a worst-case scenario, a homeowner may be totally liable for all costs related to a claim if their pet was never identified and added to a policy. Making matters more difficult for dog owners is that procedures, policies and regulations vary by insurance company and municipality or state. However, the breeds that are more likely to draw negative attention include the following:
- Pit Bulls
- Rottweilers
- Chow Chows
- German Shepherds
- Siberian Huskies
- Alaskan Malamutes
- Doberman Pinschers
- Presa Canario Bulldogs
- Great Danes
- Boxers
- Akitas
- Wolf-hybrids
For dog owners, that’s the bad news no matter how wonderful and gentle their particular pet is. It is also the reason dog owners need to work with an independent insurance agent like Muller, who has access to a large number of carriers and can help you negotiate the maze of regulations to find the right insurance for your pet.Sounds advice and expert support is your best protection for you, your home and family and even your pet.
