Affidavit
What Is an Affidavit?
An affidavit is a written promise that what you’re saying is true, signed in front of a notary.
Insurance companies, landlords, or city permit offices might ask for one when they need the facts in writing and under oath.
Think of it like telling the truth with your hand raised, but on paper.
Why You Might Need It
- A dog nips a neighbor, and you describe what happened.
- A client’s key goes missing, and you explain the steps you took.
- Your van gets broken into, and you list the stolen grooming tools.
- A park permit asks for a sworn statement that you’ll follow the rules.
A quick note: This glossary entry shares general information. For specific legal questions, it’s always best to check with an attorney.
When Do Pet Pros Need an Affidavit?
You’ll know you need an affidavit when the request specifically says “affidavit” or “notarized statement.”
Here are some people and organizations who might ask a pet business for an affidavit (and why):
- Insurance adjuster: Wants a sworn description of an incident, like a pet injury or theft
- Insurer: Needs you to confirm ownership, proof of loss, or no other insurance during the claims process
- Park permit office or landlord: Needs a sworn commitment or fact summary of what happened on their premises, or confirmation that you met specific requirements
- Court: Requires facts in a sworn, notarized format for lawsuits related to your business
Is It Hard, Expensive, or Time-Consuming to Get an Affidavit?
Thankfully, an affidavit is typically none of those things. Here’s what to know about getting one:
- The person asking for an affidavit will often supply the document for you to sign and get notarized. We suggest consulting an attorney if you have to write an affidavit from scratch.
- Most affidavits need a notary. You can usually find one at banks, libraries, mail and photocopy shops, or courthouses. Make an appointment, bring your ID and your form, and then just sign in front of them.
- A basic notary witness and stamp costs a few dollars and is done while you wait.
- Many places offer online or mobile notarization with a small fee.
- If you’re asked to attach exhibits (proof like photos, invoices, or vet bills), label them.
- Sometimes a declaration under penalty of perjury may be accepted instead of a notarized affidavit. Just follow the requester’s instructions.
Big takeaway: They might sound intimidating, but affidavits are actually simple. They just put your version of events in writing.
What’s Included in an Affidavit?
Every affidavit follows a similar format, even if the details change.
These are the major parts of an affidavit:
- Title: The document’s title often includes the case name or affidavit’s name
- Affiant’s identification: Identifies who’s making the statement (the affiant, aka you), with your full name, address, and occupation
- Statement of facts: The main section that lists the evidence and states the facts based on your knowledge, usually in numbered paragraphs
- Oath or affirmation: A statement that you’re promising the information is true to the best of your knowledge
- Signature: Signed in front of a notary public or authorized official
- Notary section: The notary adds their signature, stamp, and date to make it official
- Exhibits (optional): Attachments like photos or invoices that support your statement
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Stretching the truth. Lying can mean you’re guilty of perjury, a serious crime.
- Including opinion or hearsay. Stick to what you personally know to be true. Leave out assumptions or secondhand information.
- Skipping the details. Be specific. For example, instead of “I saw the dog was neglected”, write “On [date], the dog appeared to be underweight with visible ribs, and his coat was severely matted.”
- Getting emotional. The most persuasive affidavits are factual and clear. Too much emotion can hurt your credibility.
- Being vague. Use names, dates, and precise descriptions whenever possible.
Why you should care: Once you’ve done one, you’ll see how straightforward they are. A good affidavit helps keep your business professional, credible, and ready for anything.
Keep Sniffing Around
- Proof of Loss
- Indemnification
- Subrogation
Kyle Jude | Program Manager
Kyle Jude is the Program Manager for PCI, where he helps design and maintain liability coverage specifically for pet professionals. With 10+ years of insurance industry experience, he works closely with carriers, underwriters, and compliance teams to ensure PCI coverage stays accurate, responsive, and relevant to real-world risks. At home, he puts that same expertise to use wrangling his four beloved dogs
Kyle Jude is the Program Manager for PCI, where he helps design and maintain liability coverage specifically for pet professionals. With 10+ years of insurance industry experience, he works closely with carriers, underwriters, and compliance teams to ensure PCI coverage stays accurate, responsive, and relevant to real-world risks. At home, he puts that same expertise to use wrangling his four beloved dogs