Although it is seen as being costly, insurance is absolutely essential in the long run to ensure your horse does receive the care it requires and to cover the possible loss of it.

Colic and orthopaedic are extortionately expensive and you might need cover for up to a minimum of £5,000 for these crucial problems. Insurance companies are offering more and more flexibility and there are now a range of policies whatever your requirements.

The main types of cover available include:
• Third party insurance – this is vital as personal injury claims can and do often amount of huge sums of money. Should you be a member of an equestrian associate, most notably the British Horse Society, your membership may already include public insurance.
• All risks mortality – this covers your horse if it’s found dead or has to be put to sleep on humane grounds e.g. irrecoverably fractured leg
• Veterinary fees – this covers you for non-routine treatment of your horse following illness or accident. Current figures suggest you should insure your horse for up to £5,000 per incident.
• Loss of use cover – this offers a degree of reimbursement if the owner’s horse develops a permanent disability. It’s naturally more expensive to insure.