insurance

You can now view the new BEVA Leisure and Sports Horse Insurance Guide - FAQs relating to Vets Fees and Death here.

Even though it is perceived as being costly, insurance is essential in the long term to ensure that your horse receives the veterinary care it requires, as well as to cover the possible loss of the horse. Colic and orthopaedic surgery are inevitably expensive and you need cover for up to at least £5,000 for these important problems. Insurance companies are becoming more flexible and there are now a wide variety of policies whatever your or your equine’s requirements. The many types of cover available include:

Third party insurance

This is essential, as personal injury claims can amount to large sums of money. If you are a member of an equestrian association, such as the British Horse Society, your membership may include public liability insurance.

All risks mortality

This covers an animal if it is found dead or has to be destroyed on humane grounds, e.g. irreparably fractured leg.

Veterinary fees

This covers the owner for non-routine treatment of their horse or pony following accident or illness. Current figures suggest that you should insure your horse or pony for up to £5,000 per incident.

Loss of use cover

This provides a level of reimbursement if your horse or pony develops a permanent disability (e.g. navicular disease, bone spavin). It is inevitably more expensive to insure for this.