When I first started out as an independent relief vet, I thought my brainpower, scrubs, and stethoscope were all I’d need to run a successful business. Turns out, there’s one more thing every relief vet should have in their back pocket: solid insurance.
Relief vets are small business owners, not just fill-ins for someone else’s team. That means you carry more risk than you might realize, and having the right insurance can protect your career, your finances, and your peace of mind when things don’t go as planned.
Let’s break down what you really need, why it matters, and how to choose coverage that makes sense for you. It’s not the most thrilling topic: but trust me, you don’t want to skip this one.
Professional Liability Insurance
This is the big one. Professional liability protects you against claims related to mistakes in medical care: misdiagnosis, treatment complications, or unexpected outcomes.
Even great vets can face a complaint. We’re human, and medicine isn’t always predictable. Add in the reality that clients can file board complaints or lawsuits easily, and you’ll see why this coverage is non-negotiable. Working relief makes this even more important since you’re stepping into new clinics with new patients every day.
Many clinics cover their employees under a practice policy, but that coverage often doesn’t extend to independent contractors. The good news? Most professional policies follow you wherever you practice. Personally, I carry the highest limit offered and always include license defense: because a board complaint can happen to anyone. License defense coverage gives you access to experienced legal help if you ever need it.
How much do you need? I carry the maximum that AVMA PLIT offers. Many vets aim for at least $1–2 million per claim, with a total annual limit of $3–5 million. Always check your state’s requirements and ask a vet-focused rep if you’re unsure.
General Liability Insurance
General liability covers accidents that have nothing to do with treating a patient. Think slip-and-falls, damage to property, or injuries related to your gear or vehicle. It’s surprisingly easy to drop an expensive piece of equipment or have something break while you’re on-site.
If you do mobile work, farm calls, or bounce between clinics, this extra layer of protection can save you a huge headache. Some clinics may even require proof of general liability if you’re not on their payroll.
Workers’ Comp and Disability
This part trips up a lot of relief vets. If you’re an independent contractor, the clinic usually isn’t responsible for your workers’ comp. If you get bitten, kicked, or injured on the job, you could be on your own for medical bills and lost income.
That’s why many self-employed vets carry short-term disability coverage. If an injury or illness keeps you from working for a stretch, it can help cover your living expenses while you recover.
Health Insurance
One of the biggest shocks for new relief vets is realizing they’re in charge of their own health insurance, too. It can feel overwhelming at first, but you have options.
- You can buy a plan through the Affordable Care Act marketplace.
- Look into veterinary associations that offer group health insurance- although this is less common since the Affordable Care Act, there still may be some group options!
- Work with a private broker if you want more flexibility and personal guidance.
- If you have a spouse with a plan, that can be the simplest option. That’s what I do, and it works great.
Shop around during open enrollment every year to make sure you’re still getting the best plan for your situation.
Business Insurance
Running a true mobile practice? Carrying expensive gear like an ultrasound, chiro table, or even a work vehicle? You should consider a Business Owner’s Policy (BOP). A BOP bundles coverage for your tools, business vehicle, and even things like your laptop if it’s used for work.
Depending on your services, you might want to add extra riders to cover specialty equipment, a mobile van, large animal work, or loss of income if your gear is stolen or breaks down.
How to Choose and Save Money
Insurance doesn’t have to drain your profits. Look for companies that specialize in covering veterinarians: they understand your risks better than general providers. AVMA PLIT and AVMA Insurance are good starting points.
Bundling policies like general and professional liability can help you save. A good broker can compare quotes and find discounts you might miss on your own.
Always read the fine print. Ask questions. Your goal is to protect yourself, not get stuck paying out of pocket when you thought you were covered.
You Deserve to Feel Protected
Do you carry your own insurance as a relief vet? What coverage do you think is most important? I’d love to hear how you handle it: share your experience in the comments so other relief vets can learn too.
If you’re setting up or refreshing your relief business, my Ultimate Relief Vet Planner can help you track your contracts, shifts, income, and coverage details all in one place. It’s the tool I wish I’d had when I started.
Stay safe, stay covered, and build a relief career that works for you: not against you.
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