Running an animal shelter or rescue requires a big heart. One of the best parts of volunteering for an animal welfare organization is matching previously neglected animals with families that are ready to love and care for them. In some ways this is also the most challenging part of being a volunteer since it is common to develop a bond with the dogs, cats, and other animals. A lot more goes into managing an animal shelter. Directors in charge must also make sure the organization is adequately insured.
Buying the right insurance begins with finding an agent that understands the unique activities involved in shelter life. And it requires understanding what to look for on an insurance policy in regards to coverage and exclusions. Shelters often have insurance in place such as general liability, volunteer, and commercial property if they have a building, but the policies may have exclusions that place the organization at risk.
- Breed Exclusions
If you own a home and have a dog, you may remember having to answer what breed the dog is or even be aware that it is difficult to find homeowners insurance when you have certain breeds. Some insurance companies insure animal shelters and rescues but exclude what they refer to as high-risk breeds. Breeds most commonly excluded include Pit Bull Terriers, Staffordshire Terriers, Rottweilers, German Shepards, Chow Chows, Doberman Pinschers, Great Danes, Mastiffs, and Siberian Huskies. Breed exclusions may not be a concern if you only care for cats or a specific breed not on this list, but if you are an all-breed rescue and accept any of these into your care, the insurance could be void as a result.
- Are Animals Covered?
Unfortunately, another common exclusion is animals altogether which means that any claim resulting from one of the animals will not be covered. This includes bites, if they cause another injury, or even if they get loose and cause an automobile accident. Since animals are the center of your mission, this is an exclusion you should ask about immediately.
- Dog Bites
Dog bites are often an exclusion because of the high cost of medical care and settling these types of claims. Since most nonprofit animal shelters don’t have the funds to afford these types of expenses, making sure your insurance includes protection against dog bites is essential.
- Designated Locations
Some insurance policies limit coverage to specific locations listed in the policy. This limitation should be a concern for organizations that attend adoption events or utilize foster homes for care. If an incident were to occur at any location other than the listed one, the insurance policy would not pay the costs associated with it.
Animal shelters are a vital part of their local communities. To provide care in the long-term, it is essential that you have the right insurance in place. If you find any of the exclusions mentioned above on your insurance policy, it may be time to contact an agency that specializes in animal welfare organizations for guidance.