Home and Umbrella Insurance – Dog Bites Concerns
I have a small dog who weighs under 20 pounds and has a history of biting. One incident occurred at the vet when they attempted to treat him in an area that was painful for him. While he has drawn blood, I believe he is unlikely to cause significant harm due to his size. His breed is not typically known for aggression, and I’m actively working on his behavior with a veterinarian behaviorist and trainer.
I currently hold a home insurance policy with GEICO, and I’m uncertain if it inquired about any previous dog bites. Even if it did, such questions can be subjective, as many dogs — especially puppies — may bite without inflicting serious harm.
Additionally, I have specialty umbrella insurance which didn’t specifically ask about dog bites. However, the application did include a question regarding any potential claims or lawsuits related to incidents involving anyone in my household, regardless of validity. This, too, feels quite subjective, as countless everyday occurrences could potentially lead to claims.
I’ve noticed a range of opinions from agents on this forum, and I’m looking for some objective advice regarding my situation. I want to ensure I’m adequately covered should my dog bite someone and cause injury. Even with his low likelihood of inflicting serious damage, people do tend to pursue lawsuits when given the chance.
It’s commendable that you’re taking your dog’s behavior seriously and working with professionals to manage it. Given your concerns, here are a few steps you might consider:
Review Your Policies: Carefully go through your home and umbrella policies to see if there are any specific exclusions related to dog bites. Some insurers have breed restrictions or specific clauses regarding dogs with a history of biting.
Communicate with Your Insurer: It’s always a good idea to reach out to GEICO and your umbrella policy provider directly. Explain your dog’s history and ask for clarification on how that might affect your coverage. Be honest about his previous biting incidents, even if they were minor. Transparency is key in these situations.
Document Everything: Keep detailed records of your dog’s training, behavior assessments, and any incidents (no matter how minor). This documentation can be helpful if you ever need to defend your case or show that you’re taking proactive steps to manage your dog’s behavior.
Risk Mitigation: Continue working with a trainer and professional behaviorist, and consider measures to reduce risk, such as securing your dog in specific situations (like when visitors come over) to prevent potential issues.
Seek Expert Advice: If you’re still uncertain, consulting an insurance agent specializing in pet-related liability can provide clarity on your coverage and any steps to enhance it.
Consider Additional Coverage: If it feels necessary, look into additional liability coverage specifically for dog-related incidents. Some pet owners choose to add this to their policy for peace of mind.
Ultimately, while you can’t predict every potential outcome, being proactive about communication with your insurance and taking steps to manage your dog’s behavior will serve you well in the long run.