I hosted a Goat Yoga event. A goat chewed on a student’s hair, then bit her ear, causing bleeding and infection. She sued me and the goat owner. My insurance denied it based on the “Animals” exclusion.
Key Takeaways
- Animal Exclusion: Most GL policies exclude injury caused by animals.
- The Goat Owner’s Policy: The farm must have “Agritourism” or “Animal Bailee” liability. You need to be an Additional Insured on their policy.
- Sanitation: Goats poop. E. coli risk. Waiver must mention “Animal waste and behavior.”
- Waiver: “I accept the risk of animal bites.”
The “Why”: The Biological Hazard
The Trap:
Animals are unpredictable.
Insurance hates unpredictable.
Exclusion: “Bodily injury arising out of any animal.”
If you host Puppy/Goat Yoga, you are conducting a “Special Event” that needs a specialized policy.
The Investigation: I Quoted 3 Major Carriers
1. The Event Helper
- My Analysis: They can write a “Special Event” policy for Goat Yoga. It overrides the animal exclusion for that one day.
2. Farm Family Insurance
- My Analysis: The farm likely has this. Verify it covers “Off-Premises” events if the goats came to you.
3. Standard Yoga Policy
- My Analysis: 99% chance of denial.
[IMAGE: Photo of Goat Yoga waiver highlighting “Animal Behavior”]
Comparison Table: Animal Liability
| Carrier | Covers Bites? | Cost |
| Event Helper | Yes (Event) | $ |
| Farm Policy | Yes | |
| Standard | NO | N/A |
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Vendor COI: Get the Goat Owner’s insurance. Ensure it covers bites.
- Special Event Policy: Buy one for the day ($100).
- Waiver: Specific to animals. “Bites, scratches, waste.”
- Hygiene: Hand sanitizer station mandatory.
FAQ
What about Puppy Yoga?
Same. Teeth = Liability.
Is it safe?
Generally yes, but insurance requires paperwork.
Can I bring my own dog?
If it’s a “Shop Dog,” check with your agent.