Woman loses insurance because of dog

MARSHALL, Ill. (WTHI) - When News 10 arrived, Buddie the German Shepherd, was there to greet us.

Dee Ashburn reassured that he's family, and her security.

"Living out here in the country and no one around that's the reason I put the fence up, this is his ground and as far as I'm concerned, unless I tell the person to come in that gate, this is my place and his place," Ashburn said.

Her insurance provider saw the situation differently and inspected her home.

"Not one time have I had trouble with this dog until my insurance company decides to say I got a bad dog, well I'm scratching my head going I didn't know that," she said.

She received a letter afterward that read the dog is vicious, and her coverage will be dropped if she doesn't get rid of him.

"No one has ever been bit or mauled or knocked over or anything," said Ashburn.

Insurance companies said they can take coverage away based on a home inspection, complaint, or previous bite.

Their plan is to prevent the problem before it happens.

"As long as he doesn't hurt anyone well who's business is it? It's my business," said Ashburn.  "I'm doing it for the people out there that have pets, don't be scared like I was."

We spoke with a local insurance provider.

They stated that although it varies, companies don't usually insure homes with pit bulls, rottweilers, and chows.

Having a Fencing structure also plays a big role. The front door should not be tied into the fence, so visitors can walk up without being in danger.

Ashburn resolved her problem and switched insurance companies.  She wanted to relay her story so others knew they're not alone.