Professional Liability

Why Professional Liability Insurance Is Critical for Veterinarians

As a veterinarian, your work is rooted in compassion, skill, and trust. But even with the highest standards of care, adverse outcomes or client misunderstandings can lead to professional disputes or legal claims. Professional Liability Insurance, also known as Malpractice Insurance, is a crucial safeguard for your practice, your license, and your reputation.

What Is Professional Liability Insurance?

Professional Liability Insurance protects veterinarians from claims related to errors, omissions, or negligence that occur while performing their professional duties. Whether you’re performing surgery, diagnosing a complex condition, or offering routine care, this policy helps cover the legal costs and damages if a client believes you’ve made a mistake—even if that claim is unfounded.

Why It Matters in Veterinary Medicine

  • Emotional Clients = Higher Risk
    Pet owners often view their animals as family. When outcomes aren’t ideal, even routine procedures can trigger emotional—and legal—reactions.
  • Complex Procedures = Greater Liability
    From orthopedic surgeries to specialized treatments, today’s veterinary services involve advanced medical techniques that increase exposure to risk.
  • Rising Legal Costs
    Defending against a malpractice claim—even one without merit—can cost tens of thousands of dollars. Professional liability insurance ensures you’re not paying those fees out of pocket.
  • Licensing Protection
    Claims can sometimes trigger board reviews. Some policies also help cover the legal costs of defending your veterinary license.


What Does It Typically Cover?

Most Professional Liability Insurance policies for veterinarians include:

  • Negligence or malpractice claims
  • Misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis
  • Surgical or treatment errors
  • Failure to obtain informed consent
  • Legal defense costs
  • Board complaint representation
  • Coverage for veterinary technicians and staff
  • Defense against allegations even if you’re not at fault


Optional endorsements may include:

  • Coverage for mobile practices
  • Telemedicine services
  • Emergency or relief vet coverage

Real-World Scenario

A pet owner sues after complications from a routine spay procedure, claiming the veterinarian failed to inform them of the risks. Even though the vet followed protocol, the claim required expert legal defense. Professional Liability Insurance covered all defense costs and settlement fees, protecting the vet’s finances and license.

Why Choose VISC for your Professional Liability needs?

At Veterinary Insurance Services Company (VISC), we specialize exclusively in commercial insurance for veterinarians. We understand the unique risks of your profession and offer policies tailored to your practice size, specialty, and services. With access to multiple carriers and a team of experts who speak your language, we’re here to protect your passion.

Get Covered Today
Don’t wait until a claim threatens your livelihood.
Contact us today to review your current coverage or get a no-obligation quote!

Contact Us
info@visc-ins.com

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Call: 916-922-2260