Protect Your Pet Business from Online Threats

Running a pet business is a labour of love, whether you’re grooming pups, managing a pet shop, or running a boarding kennel. Your days are filled with wagging tails and happy customers. But have you thought about the risks lurking online?

Cybercrime is on the rise, and pet businesses aren’t immune. One cyber-attack could lead to financial losses, reputational damage, or even force your business to shut down - just like it did to M&S recently, causing them to pause online trading.

That’s why Cyber Insurance is so important - it protects your business from digital threats so you can focus on what you do best: caring for pets. Let’s break down why it’s essential, the risks of going without it, and how it acts as a safety net for your business.

What is Cyber Insurance?

Cyber Insurance is like a digital shield for your business. It’s designed to protect you from the impacts of cyber-attacks and online threats. Whether it’s a hacking attempt, ransomware, or a data breach, Cyber Insurance can help cover the costs of recovery, legal fees, and even reputation management.

If your pet business relies on tools like online booking systems, payment processors, or customer databases, Cyber Insurance is a must-have.

Why Do Pet Businesses Need Cyber Insurance?

You might think, “I’m just a small business... why would hackers target me?” The truth is that small businesses are prime targets. Hackers know that many small companies don’t have strong security measures in place.

In fact, over 40% of cyberattacks target small businesses. [¹] Pet businesses, in particular, use systems that handle sensitive data like payment information and customer contact details. A single attack could cost you thousands, not to mention the time and stress involved in recovering.

The Growing Cybercrime Threat

Cybercrime is becoming increasingly sophisticated. For all businesses, the risks are real.

Common Cyber Threats:

• Phishing emails
  Someone on your team clicks a fake email, giving hackers access to your systems. Cyber Insurance can cover the costs of investigation and recovery.
• Ransomware attacks
  Hackers lock you out of your systems and demand payment to restore access. Cyber Insurance helps with IT support and can cover the cost of ransom payments.
• Customer data breaches
  Sensitive client information is leaked, leading to potential legal consequences. Cyber Insurance covers notification costs, legal fees, and PR advice to help repair trust with your customers.
• Malware and downtime
  Malware infects your systems, halting operations. Cyber Insurance covers restoration costs and financial losses from downtime.

What Happens if You Don’t Have Cyber Insurance?

Without Cyber Insurance, recovering from a cyber-attack can be overwhelming for a business owner. You may face unexpected expenses for cybersecurity experts, data recovery, and compensating customers. Rebuilding trust with customers could take months, or even years.

For many small businesses, the costs of a severe cyberattack are simply too much to handle, and some never reopen. Cyber Insurance means that you have the financial and operational support needed to get back on your feet quickly.

What Does Cyber Insurance Cover?

• Investigating cybercrime: Figuring out what went wrong and how to stop it from happening again.
• Recovering data: Getting back important business and customer info.
• Managing your reputation: Dealing with the aftermath of hacks or bad press.
• Handling ransom payments: Covering extortion demands if it's the only solution.
• Notifying customers: Staying compliant and letting affected clients know what’s going on.

How You Can Reduce Cyber Risks

Cyber Insurance is a must but taking a few proactive steps can help prevent attacks from happening in the first place.

• Educate your team: Teach your team to spot phishing emails and use strong, secure passwords.
• Keep software updated: Regular updates can fix security gaps before they become a problem.
• Backup your data: Make it a habit to back up important files to a secure cloud system every week.

Combine these steps with Cyber Insurance, and you’ll have a solid defence against cyber threats.

Protect Your Pet Business Now

Cyber threats are a growing concern, and no pet business can afford to ignore them. Whether you run a grooming salon, boarding kennel, or pet supply shop, relying on digital tools increases your exposure to cyber risks.

A single attack could jeopardise everything you’ve worked so hard to build. But with Cyber Insurance, you’ll have the support you need to recover quickly and avoid long-term damage.

If you’re already a Brooks Braithwaite policyholder, adding Cyber Insurance to your policy is simple. Get in touch with our pet business insurance experts today on 0345 982 5499. We’re open weekdays 8am–8pm, and weekends 9am–6pm.

Peace of mind is just a call away!

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[¹] Cyber Security Breaches Survey 2025 – GOV.UK