Animal Work
Insurance
Animal Work
Insurance
Tailored protection in less than 5 minutes, from just £7.49
- Public Liability
- Professional Indemnity
- Medical Malpractice
- Products Liability
Established since 2003
Recommended by training, accreditation and membership bodies.

Insurance for Animal Work businesses
The animal work sector encompasses a broad spectrum of services, from veterinary care and pet grooming to animal-assisted therapy. Your dedication to the well-being of animals and their human companions is invaluable. Westminster provides comprehensive insurance solutions tailored to the unique risks of working with animals. Our policies cover veterinarians, animal therapists, and pet care professionals, offering the peace of mind you need to focus on compassionate care. Easily updated to accommodate new services and growth, our coverage ensures you remain protected in this rewarding field.
Practices we cover in this sector
See the list of practices we feel would be of most interest to you. If you can't find what you're looking for or offer a more diverse range of services check out our full list.
IMPORTANT TIP: You may find that the business practice name differs a little from what you may call it, but provided that the description matches what you do, this will provide the cover you require.
Animal Assisted Therapy
Animal Assisted Therapy encourages animal interaction (walking, petting etc) which evokes feelings of relaxation, happiness, laughter and stress release. It uses animals to help children and adults with mental health needs, physical or learning disabilities to achieve increased health, wellbeing and quality of life. Typically uses dogs but a wide range of small animals can be used including fish, reptiles, rabbits, ferrets etc. all of which are assessed by a trained professional for their suitability, behaviour and temperament. Animals kept on leads when required. Can also facilitate listening therapy.
Animal Care (T2)
Animal care workers look after animals in different settings such as kennels, rescue centres, sanctuaries, catteries and other animal-related establishments. This would typically include checking animals daily and monitoring their health, cleaning out kennels, enclosures, cages or stables, preparing food and helping out at feeding times, cleaning and grooming animals, looking after sick or distressed animals, updating records and dealing with questions from colleagues or the public, and making sure animals are exercised regularly. Insured must comply with industry standards, requirements, ethics, policies and relevant statutes.
Conditions:
- For domestic, personal or leisure related animals only, excludes agricultural farm animals, livestock and cattle.
Animal Grooming (T2)
Provision of hygienic care, bathing and trimming services for animals, including but not limited to washing, clipping, drying, grooming, eye/ear cleaning, teeth brushing etc.
Animal Healing / Communicator
Hands on healing, communication with, channeling healing energies and the use of any other holistic therapies (insured by Westminster Insurance Ltd) used to help benefit the animal.
Animal Massage
Using knowledge of anatomy, physiology and massage techniques, this is the practice of applying structured or unstructured pressure, tension, motion, or vibration manually or with mechanical aids to the soft tissues of the body, including muscles, connective tissue, tendons, ligaments, joints and lymphatic vessels, to achieve a beneficial response. Includes evaluation of needs, assessment of progress and consultation with other professionals, veterinarians and animal owners.
Animal Microchipping
Microchipping is the process of injecting a tiny chip between the shoulder blades.
Animal Nutrition and Health Management (T2)
Animal Nutrition and Health Management practitioners promote, educate and increase understanding of how an animals food intake, activity and weight management can affect the animals health, well-being, and productivity. The work revolves around coaching, consultation, advice and creating individualized, breed-specific nutritional, fitness/exercise, lifestyle, weight management/control plans and menus for animals, home-prepared cooking recipes etc. The practitioners may work with all types of animals, including domestic and zoo animals, but exluding animals which are in anyway involved in the food consumption chain.
Animal Reiki
Reiki is a non-invasive complementary therapy which involves channeling Reiki energy into the animal to activate their natural healing process, restoring physical and emotional wellbeing. Reiki is delivered hands on or hands off.
Animal Yoga (T2)
Animal Yoga is the activity of incorporating animals with the regular yoga practice. It combines standard physical poses, postures, breathing exercises, and meditation with animal interaction or just animal presence to improve overall health. Popular animals included in such sessions are goats, alpacas, lamas, dogs, cats etc.
Conditions:
- Excluding horses, livestock, wild animals, cattle.
Behaviour Modification & Learning Theory - Animal
Behaviour Modification and Learning Theory - for human/animal relationship improvement & understanding reasons for problem behaviours especially those created by human error/lack of understanding. Functional analysis assessment. Learning theories applied to help humans better communicate with their animals in order to work with them more safely. Understanding how animals learn and about various reinforcers used to modify behaviour. An understanding of basic human psychology and learning is also helpful.
Dog Behaviour Training
Training dogs for competition and/or appropriate everyday behaviour using a knowledge of animal behaviour.
Dog/Cat Boarding
Offering a home boarding service where people can leave their dogs/cat as an alternative to kennels.
Dog/Cat Breeding (T3)
Dog/Cat breeding can involve the provision of a male dog/cat or a female dog/cat. Includes selection of appropriate healthy animals, care during pregnancy, supervision and care during whelping, early training and the sale of litter.
Conditions:
- Insured must comply with all licensing, local authority and legal requirements.
Equine/Alpaca Assisted Therapy/Guided Development (T2)
Equine/Alpaca Assisted Therapy uses horses, donkeys or alpacas to help children and adults who may have mental health needs, physical or learning disabilities to achieve increased health, wellbeing and quality of life. Interaction evokes feelings of relaxation, happiness, stress release and healing for the client, breaking down barriers and enabling them to release blocked emotions. Guided Development can help: increase personal confidence, courage and awareness. build effective relationships through trust and authenticity develop skills work through uncertainty and uncomfortable emotionally charged situations experience different leadership positions and the associated impact face fears and expand emotional, social and team intelligence. Animals are assessed prior to their participation in the assisted therapy to ensure their suitability, behaviour and temperament.
Fertility Testing and Artificial Insemination in Animals
Fertility Testing services include sperm collection from the donor animal, semen analysis and chilling if required; Vaginal swab collection and analysis; blood analysis; blood collection; progesterone testing etc. The act of artificial insemination involves installation of semen into the cranial vagina or uterus of the recipient animal.
Conditions:
- The insured must work within the legal regulations and industry requirements and guidance.
Hippotherapy (T3)
Physiotherapy treatment using a horse to facilitate movement in the client. Client can be placed in different positions on a horse supported by a physiotherapist plus 2 assistants and encouraged to perform exercises. The sensory motor feedback from the horse promotes normal movement patterns in the client. Balance reactions are stimulated which helps strengthen the core muscles, improve balance and help restore function.
Pet Sitting and Dog Walking
To feed, give water and clean waste for pets which may include dogs, cats, rabbits, rodents, birds, reptiles and fish in the owners houses only. To walk their dogs on a lead locally for exercise.
Conditions:
- Dangerous Dog Exclusion The following dogs, as outlined in the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, and/or any dog crossbred from these, are specifically excluded from cover under any section of this Policy: Pit Bull Terrier, Japanese Tosa / Tosa Inus, Dogo Argentino (also referred to as Argentine Dogo and Argentinian Mastiff), Fila, Brasileiro. Including any type, as defined in the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, considered to match the description of a prohibited type, any breed crossed with the above, and any other breed or type deemed be dangerous by the Secretary of State and subsequently added to the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991
Pet Ultrasound
Ultrasound scanning of pets to confirm pregnancy or not. There is no medical diagnosis or anything prescribed, it is just to confirm pregnancy.
Conditions:
- Subject to no equine unless for personal use and pleasure only (not competition horses).
Pony Party Practice (T2)
It is a service that includes activities such as grooming, pampering and decorating the ponies with bows, coloured hair clips, bands for the mane and tail, glittering hooves. The parties may include arts and crafts sessions such as but not limited to creating decorations for the ponies, horseshoe crafts etc. Animals are assessed prior to their participation in the assisted therapy to ensure their suitability, behaviour and temperament. The ponies are to be supervised at all times by a qualified and experienced staff member.
Conditions:
- Excluding pony rides. Maximum £2,000,000 limit.
Soul Care for Pets End of Life Doula
There is very little personal help and support for pet owners when it comes to facing the potential loss of their beloved pet. Not knowing what options there are with regard to what happens when their pet passes. This course provides the practitioner with the skills to enable and empower them to help and guide clients through this highly emotional and distressing time. This course covers numerous areas that a person/family facing the loss of their pet will face, giving them comfort and knowledge that they do not have to go through this process on their own. As long as the practitioner is qualified to provide therapies (if not they can signpost others), the pet, with the owners consent, will receive healing. Being able to provide various types of healing (e.g. Reiki, spiritual healing), massage, animal communication, animal healing energy, chakra healing is something that the practitioner would, again if qualified, be able to provide. Being able to liaise in a professional manner with any professional body (e.g. vet) family, and friends that may also be affected during this emotional period is also something the practitioner will be skilled to provide. Grief is very personal and the practitioner will be trained in recognising the various stages of grief and will be able to provide the client with emotional support. This course will enable the practitioner to aid the client through the grief process, manage their pain through healing and help them to accept the loss of their pet in a way that will help them through this stressful and emotional period.
Veterinary Medicine (T4)
This service involves diagnosing and treating sick or injured animals. In general veterinary practice you could: diagnose and treat sick and injured animals, carry out blood analyses, X-rays and scans, provide care for animals in veterinary hospitals, carry out regular health checks and give vaccinations, supervise veterinary nurses and support staff, keep records of treatments, communicate with pet owners and insurers, put severely injured or terminally ill animals to sleep, follow public health and hygiene laws.
Conditions:
- Excludes surgery. Insured must be suitably qualified/trained, and comply with industry standards, requirements, ethics, policies and relevant statutes. Can only deal with domestic animals, not farm animals, livestock or cattle
Approved Practitioners:
- Qualified Veterinarian
Veterinary Medicine and Surgery (T5)
This service involves diagnosing and treating sick or injured animals. In general veterinary practice you could: diagnose and treat sick and injured animals, perform operations, carry out blood analyses, X-rays and scans, provide care for animals in veterinary hospitals, carry out regular health checks and give vaccinations, supervise veterinary nurses and support staff, keep records of treatments, communicate with pet owners and insurers, neuter animals to stop them breeding, put severely injured or terminally ill animals to sleep, follow public health and hygiene laws.
Conditions:
- Insured must be suitably qualified/trained, and comply with industry standards, requirements, ethics, policies and relevant statutes. Can only deal with domestic animals, not farm animals, livestock or cattle.
Approved Practitioners:
- Veterinary Surgeon with minimum 2 years experience
Veterinary Nursing (T3)
Veterinary Nurses support vets by caring for sick and injured animals. Typical tasks include but are not limited to keeping the practice and equipment clean and hygienic, preparing animals for treatment and assisting vets during procedures, giving injections, medication and removing stitches, taking x-rays, taking care of in-patient animals, supporting and talking to pet owners about treatment and care of their animals, and performing reception and administrative duties.
Conditions:
- Must comply with industry standards, requirements, ethics, policies and relevant statutes. Can only deal with domestic animals, not farm animals, livestock or cattle.
Approved Practitioners:
- Veterinary Nurse
Zoopharmacognosy (T2)
Zoopharmacognosy facilitates self-medication of domesticated and captive animals by offering them plant extracts that would contain the same, or similar constituents to those found in an animals evolutionary history which are then inhaled, ingested or topically applied. The extracts offered include a variety of essential oils, absolutes, infused oils, tubers, clays, algae, seaweeds and minerals.
How our insurance protects you
Combined Business Insurance provides crucial protection. This core bundle is at the centre of every policy, offering comprehensive protection by combining Professional Indemnity, Medical Malpractice, and Public Liability insurance in one policy. So you can grow your business with confidence, while you are protected for the following:
- Public Liability Protection.
- Professional Indemnity.
- Medical Malpractice.
- Product Liability.
- Breach of confidentiality.
- Defamation, Libel & Slander.
- Dishonesty of employees.
- Your work as a subcontractor.
- Subcontractors work for you.
- Loss of documents.
- Breach of intellectual property.
- Public relation expenses.
Extra protection available
The beauty of our insurance is that you can choose exactly what you need and have as little or as much cover as your individual requirements dictate.
Why do businesses in the Animal Work industry need Insurance?
The animal work industry is filled with unique challenges and responsibilities. Working with animals inherently comes with risks, including potential injuries to the animals in your care and the possibility of accidents involving clients or staff. Unforeseen incidents such as animal bites, misdiagnoses, or even property damage caused by animals can lead to significant financial and legal repercussions. Additionally, the theft or loss of essential equipment can disrupt your operations. Having comprehensive insurance is crucial to safeguard your business against these unpredictable events, allowing you to focus on providing quality care without constant worry about potential liabilities.

Read our guide for Qualification Requirements
Having the correct level of experience or qualifications necessary to offer a service is...
Read Here >>How things can go wrong
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Why Westminster
Why Westminster
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Comprehensive Protection
Safeguard against claims for accidental injuries, illnesses, or property damage, keeping your business secure.
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Flexible Coverage
Tailor your insurance to fit your unique needs, whether you're flying solo or part of a larger team.
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Confidence and Trust
Offer peace of mind to yourself, your team, and your clients, knowing that you're prepared for whatever comes your way.
Full support in the event of a claim
Giving comfort and removing the hassle and stress.
First class friendly help on the phone
No salesmen, no gimmicks! We just make insurance easy.
Fast, easy online quote, 24/7
Get your quote and insurance document - within minutes.
Penny Parker
Animal Groomer and Therapist
An Insurance that personalises your needs Cover for Microchipping, Nail clipping, Animal Therapy, Animal Reiki.
Christine Janet Kenny
Animal Healer
Only a phone call away, all queries are replied to with speed, whether by call or email. Only humans no automation.
FAQ's
Why do you want to know my income?
We require this for one reason - in order to gain an indication of the size of the business.
We are able to provide insurance to business practices where the total income is up to a maximum of £1,2500,000 pa. This is not profit (after taxes and expenses), but the total revenue of your business.
The income we discuss here is the income generated from the business practices to be covered by this insurance. That may NOT be the total business income if the business engages in some practices NOT covered by this insurance.
Your income level will have an impact on the premium. Please see the ‘How much will it cost’ section for more details.
Can I pay monthly?
Yes, you can.
When you proceed to purchase you will be given the choice of paying monthly or annually. However, it is an annual policy and you are expected to maintain the monthly payments. You should regard this as spreading the cost rather than purchasing monthly coverage.
I have just qualified and am looking to set up my own business. I was wondering do I need to have my company set up before I get insurance or start taking on clients?
We do not offer business advice. However, we can add a few comments that might be helpful in answer to your question.
You do not need to have a 'company' in place before starting to take on clients or to obtain insurance. But, you should have insurance in place as soon as you start to take on clients. If, at a later date, you form a company the policy can be altered to take that into account and will cover you before the company was formed and thereafter.
Insurance cover provides you with the comfort that in the event of something 'going wrong' with the service you provide you are covered against a valid claim.
The Financial Regulator and our professional standing.
The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) is the regulatory body charged by UK law to regulate the financial markets in the UK. This, of course, includes the entire insurance market and this firm.
Westminster Insurance Limited is duly authorised and regulated by the FCA registration no: 439023.
For ease of reference you may use this link direct to the FCA Register - CLICK HERE where you may check the registration of this firm - or any other regulated by the FSA.
It is a criminal offense to undertake any regulated activity (as those activities and markets regulated by the FCA are called) without the appropriate FCA authority.
The financial regulation standards in the UK (enforced by the FCA) are probably the toughest in the world, and the process to become regulated takes into account all factors appropriate to the running of a business.
Where Westminster Insurance Limited does business in other parts of the EU - such as Eire - it remains under the same stringent regulatory conditions as if it were in the UK.
Professional bodies are usually set up to protect the interest of members and set professional and ethical standards for practitioners. The FCA is set up to protect the consumer. The conditions for authorisation are stringent, appropriate and thorough as is the ongoing monitoring of every person or firm regulated by the FCA. Accordingly, there is no professional body that Westminster Indemnity Ltd could belong, or subscribe to, that would further enhance the protection our customers receive.
How do I get a quotation and apply for cover?
We are a fully automated process and provide all the information needed for you to make an informed decision online.
A quotation is available 24/7 online. Anywhere on our website simply click on the ‘Get a Quote’ button. That will take you through the questions necessary to generate a quotation. It’s all straightforward and simple and once produced you have the option to save the quote for later or proceed direct to purchase.
If you choose to proceed to purchase, you have the option to pay monthly or for the whole year by Credit or Debit Card and once the transaction is authorised your policy is issued immediately. Your documents will be emailed to you for you to print and save.
For more details on this click on the ‘How it Works’ tab under Help and Support and if there’s still anything that remains unclear, simply give us a call, we always love to chat.
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