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Insurance © - Excerpted from Practical Horse Management ©

Excerpted from Chardy Shealy's new book entitled, Practical Horse Management^©.

Low Risk	Greater Risk
Proven broodmares, 4-14 years Stallions being pasture-bred Horses over age 2 years (except those in "greater risk" category) Horses staying in one location most of the time Horses living in closed groups Horses owned longer than 6 months by same owner	First time foaling mares, especially if aged or in poor physical condition Stallions being hand-bred Horses under age 2 years Horses being transported Horses housed in commercial boarding facilities Horses owned less than 6 months

Shopping around for insurance is worthwhile. A company 1000 miles away may offer better coverage than a local firm. The firm's reputation for customer service is critical. An equine veterinarian often has experience with insurance companies and may be able to make a recommendation. Sometimes the same company that covers a person's homeowner insurance will insure the horses. Some insurers prefer certain breeds to others. Some insurance companies are helpful in working out a policy that meets the owner's needs best. Some offer "herd policies" and other special services.

Some insurers have been badly burned by horse owners with illegal claims that have cost insurers (and eventually the insureds) considerable time and money. Most insurance companies require that a dead horse be autopsied; that a live, ill or injured horse be examined by their choice of veterinarian before the horse is euthanized.

Accident insurance may or may not be cheaper than full mortality coverage. In most circumstances, full mortality coverage is a wiser choice. Find out what the policy covers and does not cover. Sometimes customers are tempted to leave one insurer providing satisfactory service to sign up with another on the basis of an advertised offer. Beware. The "deal" of today could be cancelled next month.

If the agent makes an offer that meets the owner's needs, is helpful and open about the details, and comes well recommended, chances are this will be a long-term, satisfactory business arrangement, providing the owner peace of mind, and the agent a reasonable fee.