Worker’s Comp for Volunteers & Interns
Worker’s Comp for Volunteers & Interns
Volunteers and interns are the backbone of many pet businesses, including shelters, grooming facilities, adoption centers, and pet therapy programs. They assist with animal care, administrative tasks, events, and daily operations, often without direct pay. While invaluable, their work comes with risks that can result in injuries or accidents.
Workers’ Compensation Insurance for Volunteers & Interns provides protection for those helping your business, covering medical expenses, rehabilitation, and lost wages (if applicable), ensuring safety and peace of mind for both the organization and the individuals involved.
Why Volunteers & Interns Need Workers’ Comp
Even though volunteers and interns may not be salaried, they face real workplace hazards:
Handling animals that may bite, scratch, or behave unpredictably
Cleaning, feeding, or caring for animals
Lifting or carrying heavy equipment, crates, or food supplies
Slips, trips, and falls in kennels, grooming areas, or offices
Transportation of animals or supplies
Accidents during events, adoption days, or outreach programs
Without proper coverage, your organization could face liability claims or expensive medical bills if a volunteer or intern is injured on the job.
General Liability Insurance for Worker’s Comp for Volunteers & Interns
General Liability Insurance safeguards your pet business against claims arising from bodily injury, property damage, or negligence involving third parties.
Key benefits include:
Coverage for injuries to clients, visitors, or inspectors on your premises
Protection against property damage caused by pets or staff
Legal defense costs for covered claims
Coverage for offsite events such as adoption days, pet expos, or mobile services
For any pet business, general liability insurance is fundamental, ensuring that accidents do not threaten your financial stability or reputation.
Workers’ Compensation Insurance for Worker’s Comp for Volunteers & Interns
Employees and volunteers in pet businesses face daily risks. Handling animals, lifting supplies, walking dogs, or cleaning cages can all lead to injuries. Workers’ Compensation Insurance provides protection by covering medical costs, rehabilitation, and wage replacement if an employee or covered volunteer is injured on the job.
Common incidents covered:
Animal bites, scratches, or allergic reactions
Strains, sprains, or back injuries from lifting animals or equipment
Slips, trips, and falls within the workplace or during offsite duties
Injuries sustained during transportation of animals or supplies
Workers’ compensation protects both your employees and your business from legal disputes, ensuring compliance with state labor regulations.
Business Owners Policy (BOP) for Worker’s Comp for Volunteers & Interns
A Business Owner’s Policy bundles essential coverages into one cost-effective package, providing broad protection for pet businesses.
BOP typically includes:
Property Insurance – Covers your facility, cages, equipment, and supplies
General Liability Insurance – Protects against third-party claims for bodily injury or property damage
Business Interruption Insurance – Replaces lost income if operations are disrupted due to a covered event
A BOP simplifies insurance management, providing comprehensive coverage for day-to-day operations as well as unexpected incidents.
🐾Frequently Asked Questions
Got Questions? We’ve Got Answers
Yes—any business interacting with clients, animals, or the public should carry liability coverage.
Coverage varies by state. Many policies allow volunteer endorsements for additional protection.
Yes—BOP policies can be customized to protect more than one facility or location.
Yes—injuries caused by animals while performing job duties are typically included.
Yes—policies often cover adoption events, mobile services, or community outreach.
