Chances are, Pennsylvania residents have caught wind of the insurance policies designed specifically for pets. Perhaps you even have health insurance policies for your furry, four-legged friends to protect your finances in the event that they become ill or injured.
It's great to have protection for your pet. But do your friends and neighbors need protection from your pet? Did you know that the kind of pets you have can actually affect your home insurance premium?
Picture this: Your eccentric neighbor stops by to drop off a batch of cookies, and Herman, the family hound, unexpectedly bites him. Your neighbor is shocked, offended, injured, and (gulp) litigious. He sues you. Because the scuffle between dog and man took place on your property, your home insurance covers it and your premium probably goes up.
Home insurance agents see scenarios like these all the time. That's why some home insurance policies now adjust their premiums according to the types of dogs homeowners keep. Different insurance companies have varying lists of so-called "dangerous breeds," but there are certain breeds that generally show up on most lists. These include: Huskies, Dobermans, Rottweilers, German Shepherds, Malamutes, Chow Chows, and Pit Bulls.
Of course, many of these breeds are favored by homeowners, as their protective natures tend to deter burglars and other trespassers. But as a side-effect, homeowners who have these types of canines may have a more difficult time obtaining home insurance, or may end up paying higher premiums, even if the dog has never injured anyone.
What is a dog lover to do? If you don't yet have a dog but plan on getting one, consider a breed that hasn't been deemed "dangerous." The local animal shelter is an ideal place to find a sweet natured mixed breed, or mutt, who is unlikely to show up on any home insurance providers' list of undesirable dogs.
If you do have a dog, whether it's a "dangerous breed" or just a happy-go-lucky Lab who has never displayed any aggression in her life, consider the four S's: Separate, Sign, Socialize, and Spay/Neuter.
Separate your dog from strangers who may potentially rub her the wrong way. Install fences on your property to create boundaries and keep your dog in a separate area.
Signs are appropriate tools for keeping neighbors and unfamiliar visitors from entering the dog's space and putting themselves at risk. Hang signs that let people know there is a dog on the property and, if you know your dog has a tendency to nip or bite, make sure the signs say "Beware."
Socialize your dog to promote a love of humans and fellow animals. Teach your dog that people and animals are not to be feared, and encourage her to be comfortable in a variety of situations. Take your dog on errands, visit dog parks, and participate in obedience or training courses.
Spay or Neuter your dog to minimize aggressive tendencies and make him or her mellower, as well as less likely to roam. Doing this has the added benefit of lessening the number of new puppies born, so that all the dogs who are already alive and in need of good homes have a better shot of finding one.
Taking these steps will minimize the chances of your dog ever hurting anyone on your property, protect you from lawsuits, and keep your home insurance premium down.
For more information about pet insurance, Call or contact Richard B. Ryon Insurance.