I’m looking to buy my first horse and will be insuring him. What are the most common features in an insurance policy and what do they mean?

Typically, horse insurance policies can include the following types of cover…

• death, theft and straying This is also known as mortality or loss of animal cover. It means if the horse is sadly killed, dies or has to be put down buy a vet, you will receive back the value you have insured him for, providing the terms are met to allow you to submit a claim
• veterinary fees Depending on the vet fee cover you choose, this will allow you to claim for any new incidents that happen, meaning the vet bills are paid by the insurance. Full cover will include any accidents, sickness and disease, whereas more limited cover may just be for open wounds or, in some cases, specific surgeries, too
• public liability This section provides cover against any damage or injury your horse may cause to third parties. For example, your horse may escape from a field and end up causing an accident on the road
• personal accident This is cover for your own serious injuries caused by the insured horse. The cover available on a horse insurance policy can be more limited than a standalone one, but often protects you or anyone else that rides or handles the horse with your permission
• permanent loss of use Choosing to include permanent loss of use cover means you’ll receive back a percentage of your horse’s value in the event he becomes ill or injured and consequently, is never able to do the activities he was insured for

As always, insurance companies will be more than happy to discuss all of the options with you so that you can work out the cover that is best for you – give them a call!