This article was originally printed in the May/June 2025 issue of the California Veterinarian magazine.

Owning a veterinary practice is not just about making a living—it’s about making a difference in the lives of your patients and their owners. But running a successful practice also involves managing the risks that come with caring for animals and interacting with clients. That’s where business insurance comes in. You can’t predict every possible outcome, but you can certainly prepare for it!

In this article, we’ll examine the essential types of insurance coverage that every veterinarian needs and explain why it’s a great idea to reach out to our business insurance experts at Veterinary Insurance Services Company (VISC) to help you navigate it all.

General Liability Insurance: Your First Line of Defense

First and foremost, general liability insurance is like a superhero cape for your practice. It protects you from a variety of claims, including customer slip-and-fall accidents or property damage. Picture this: A client hurts their ankle by tripping in your lobby. General liability insurance steps in to cover medical costs, legal fees, and other damages.

Business Personal Property Insurance: Protecting Your Equipment

Your practice is full of expensive equipment and technology, from surgical tools to computers and exam tables. If anything gets damaged or destroyed—whether by a fire, flood, or even theft—business personal property insurance helps cover the replacement or repair costs.

Professional Liability Insurance: When Things Don’t Go as Planned

Even the most skilled practitioners can make mistakes. Professional liability insurance (aka malpractice insurance) protects you if a client sues over claims of professional negligence, errors in diagnosis, or treatment mistakes.

Workers’ Compensation Insurance: Protecting Your Team

Your team is your practice’s backbone. Workers’ compensation insurance ensures that if one of your staff members is injured on the job—whether by lifting heavy equipment or getting scratched by a feisty cat—they’re covered.

Cyber Insurance: Protecting Your Digital World

We live in a digital world, and veterinary practices are no exception. With client data stored on computers and online systems, a cyberattack or data breach could be devastating. Cyber insurance protects against these risks, covering the costs of restoring systems, legal fees, and even notifying affected clients.

Employment Practices Liability (EPL) Insurance: Avoiding HR Headaches

Managing people can be tricky, and conflicts can arise. Employment Practices Liability (EPL) insurance covers you in case of claims like discrimination, harassment, or wrongful termination.

Umbrella Insurance: Extra Coverage When You Need It Most

For those moments when you need extra protection beyond the limits of your other policies, umbrella insurance is a safety net that covers the big stuff. If a lawsuit exceeds your general liability or professional liability coverage, umbrella insurance helps fill the gap.

Commercial Auto Insurance: Protecting Your Practice’s Wheels

If your practice involves using vehicles to transport animals or supplies, commercial auto insurance is essential. It covers accidents, damages, and injuries that may occur while driving for work purposes.

Health Benefits for Employees: Taking Care of Your Team

Attracting and retaining top talent is key to the success of your practice, and offering health benefits to your employees is one way to do that. Providing insurance shows that you value your team and helps keep them happy and healthy. After all, a healthy staff means happy patients and satisfied clients.

Why You Should Reach Out to the Experts at VISC

Now that you know why business insurance is a must, you might be wondering where to start. This is where VISC comes in. Our team of experts understands the unique needs of veterinary practices and can help you customize a policy that fits your exact requirements. Whether you’re looking for comprehensive coverage or specific protection, VISC is here to guide you. We will help you navigate the complexities of insurance, ensuring you get the right coverage at the right price. By reaching out to us, you can rest easy knowing that your practice is in expert hands!

Insurance might not be the most glamorous part of running a veterinary practice, but it’s one of the most important. With the right coverage in place, you can protect your practice, your employees, and your clients, allowing you to focus on what truly matters: providing excellent care to your patients. With VISC by your side, you’ll have the peace of mind you need to continue doing what you love.