Keeping A Dog, Liability Issues and Tips For Cheaper Home Insurance PDF Print E-mail
Written by Chimezirim Odimba   
Wednesday, 21 April 2010 13:15
Do you have a dog? If so, have you checked if your dog is really covered by your homeowners or renters' insurance policy? Let's share tips that will help you stay adequately covered at dirt cheap rates if you have a dog breed that is known for aggression...
by ChimezirimOdimba


Are you a dog owner? If you checked YES, have you taken time to ensure that your policy truly gives you adequate protect? We'll give you tips that will help you avoid pitfalls that will make cheap rates very difficult...

Generally, expect the average insurer to balk at the thought of including personal liability coverage by default for you, a dog owner. This become even more so if your dog is a breed notorious for aggression. And when they do, expect to pay very high rates. Is there anything you can do? Yes! Here they are...

1. Take every precaution to ensure that your dog does NOT ever bit anyone. Once your dog has it on record that it has bitten someone in the past, it becomes really tough for you to get insurance on it. The following steps are recommended...

i) Make sure your dog completes obedience classes. You'll be at an advantage if it gets Canine Good Citizen certification.

ii) Make sure your male dogs are neutered. This step helps to lower aggression and such problems. And you know that these lead to biting.

iii) Make sure your dogs are never unleashed once you're outdoors. As much as possible, restrict them to fenced areas. This measure makes it impossible for them to run after anyone.

iv) It's wrong to leave kids alone with your dog. Avoid it!

2. Go ahead and get your home insurance policy even if it has little, or even does NOT include, coverage for canine-inflicted injuries. In addition, however, you must ensure you get an umbrella policy. It will protect you from the craziest of law suits. And, don't forget: Your umbrella policy does NOT cover only liability issues that affect your home. It goes even further.The added advantage that an umbrella policy gives is that you are sure of protect for all liability claims whether they relate to your car, home or much more. To know how far it goes, discuss with your agent.

For just $300 a year, you can get an umbrella policy with a coverage amount of $2 million. If you factor in what it could cost you in liability claims if your dog bites a neighbor or the mailman, you'll agree that it's quite a good deal.

3. Get a dog-friendly insurance company and you'll get better rates. To find out, ask other dog owners and get a wide range of quotes from reputable quotes sites. As you get and compare quotes, you'll easily see those insurers that are favorably disposed to dog owners -- They'll offer you the best price/value.

DISCLAIMER: This article is provided as information only and is not to be taken as financial advice.