Veterinary medicine has, in recent years, become increasingly sophisticated. We can diagnose and treat many conditions that a few years ago would have remained undetected with often fatal consequences. The down side of these advances is cost, with many cases running into many hundreds of pounds with complex cases running into thousands. Equine specialisation has allowed access to levels of equipment, facilities and veterinary expertise only dreamed of twenty years ago. Similarly, modern equine drugs are far more effective, but this technological improvement is reflected in the cost.
One of our most distressing situations is where the owner’s financial situation puts constraints on the level of treatment that we can offer, resulting in reduced clinical success or reduced life expectancy.
That’s where horse insurance comes in! Veterinary fee cover can help you to avoid such situations. When choosing an insurance policy, there are several features that you should consider carefully:
If your horse can no longer do the discipline for which it was purchased through injury or disease, you will only be able to claim for it’s worth if you have previously paid for cover called ‘loss of use’.
Like your household or car insurance, horse insurance also has a small excess which you will have to pay on a claim. Vaccinations and routine treatments such as worming are also excluded. If specialist care is required, many insurers will not pay for transport or time in livery.
Just as the British Equine Veterinary Association, our practice endorses the concept of horse insurance and we thoroughly recommend it to our clients. Our interest is to ensure that we do not have to compromise the quality of veterinary care on the basis of cost.
We believe that all horse owners should carry ‘third party’ insurance, irrespective of age, type or usage of the horse or pony. It appears to be a misconception that your household policy will cover all eventualities. If your horse escapes from its field and causes a road accident you may well not be covered and more than likely at risk of being liable!
Many companies offering equine insurance but, in our experience, some have proven to be more efficient and understanding than others. Recommendation of good, prompt, claims settlement from friends is a good way to choose, once you have examined and evaluated several competing companies’ policies. If you are still unsure one of our vets may be able to give you guidance in these areas by telephoning the surgery on 01481 723863.