What does bonded/insured mean for dog walkers?

"Bonding" in this context usually means that the company has completed a background check on each employee and has determined that the person has no criminal charges pending or in the past. While a background check does not guarantee an employee's honesty, it does provide the assurance that each person has been screened more thoroughly than is typically done by an employer.

 "Insured" means that the company carries liability coverage for personal injuries and property damage, as well as worker's compensation insurance.

Deb W.

The first reply by Deb W. is correct on explaining Bonding and Insured. However, I would question the ethics of your current dog walker. She is working for this company and going behind their back to steal you as a customer. I believe in saving money when we can, but personally, I would question this offer from that person on these grounds.

brandy76

Since she's not bonded & insured what does this mean for me & my dog??

What it means is, if you give your dog walker a key to your home, a bonded individual has had a background check. Although it is no guarantee chances are they won't rob you or copy your key. I personally think insurance is more important. If your dog is injured or lost, or injurers another dog/person/property while in the care of the walker, the walker's insurance will cover the expenses.  

Vee

However, I would question the ethics of your current dog walker

 I agree with this statement 100%. Very unethical.

 Workman's compensation insurance is very important too, IMO.  If the dog walker is hurt and they don't have coverage then you could end up paying the tab or your insurance company. 

denise m

If your dog is injured or lost, or injurers another dog/person/property while in the care of the walker, the walker's insurance will cover the expenses.  

I'm insured, meaning if I hurt their dog or damage their property I'm covered. But- if their dog hurts someone, a dog, or damages someone's property the owners are actually responsible. I have a contract they have to sign agreeing to this before I begin my services. IMO, it's a way to protect myself; some people don't want to fess up about their dogs "quirks". But honestly, I've never had an incident.  

BlackLabbie

But- if their dog hurts someone, a dog, or damages someone's property the owners are actually responsible. I have a contract they have to sign agreeing to this before I begin my services.

My guess is the law may vary depending on your area. Here, the liability lies with the professional who has the care/custody of the dog as they assume the responsibility (by receipt of fee) of control of that dog. The fact that you have your clients sign a contract to the contrary may not be valid if the owners can show negligence on your part. However, as I said before it may vary from area to area. That is just how it is here.