Your family can grow in many ways, and sometimes your new baby can be a fur baby. Perhaps it's time to get a pet. They are, after all, beloved additions to your home.
But having a new pet in your home does raise your risks as a homeowner. The pet could cause injury and property damage risks to you, your family and your visitors. With the right attention, you can introduce your pet to its new life in a way that can keep risks low.
Homeowners Insurance and Pet Risks
Often, your home insurance policy addresses how it will help you following pet-related damage.
Usually, your insurance only covers pet damage to others, not to you and yours. If your pet bites you or your family, or damages your property, your policy won't likely provide payment. This is the case because insurers often expect you to consider this degree of risk when taking a pet into your home.
However, if your pet bites another person or damage their property, you might get sued. Your home insurance might contain pet liability protection. This coverage can help protect you from financial losses associated with third party damages.
Keep in mind that standard homeowners insurance might not contain pet liability protection. Even if it does, it may still contain exclusions, such as breed restrictions. Therefore, before you get a pet, check your policy to see how it addresses pet risks.
Preparing for a New Pet
Once your new pet comes home, you should make sure it adjusts well to its new surroundings. Providing a safe, loving home for the pet can help reduce the chances of harmful behavior.
- Give the pet its dedicated space for food, rest and toys. Your pet should have a safe space in which to retreat in times of stress.
- Consider obedience training. A well-behaved pet often has a better understanding of acceptable behavior.
- Keep an eye on your pet to learn its habits. You may notice that certain events trigger stress in the pet. This might increase the chances that the pet causes harm to someone else. During such times, you should arrange your home to help the pet remain comfortable.
- Confine the pet to your property. Invest in fencing, leashes or other items to keep the pet from running free. You might have to adjust these practices as your pet ages.
- Vaccinate your pet. Doing so can greatly reduce health-related threats to both the pet and others.
Adjustment takes time. Make sure you devote enough love and attention to the pet to ensure it becomes at home with your family.
Do you have optimal home insurance coverage for life with a pet? Amco & Remco Insurance can help you determine the answer to that question. Contact us today to learn more.