Hot Topics

Are there different levels of cover for pet insurance?: Levels of cover for pet insurance are usually put into three sections:
Can I insure a pet of any age?: Most pets can be insured from 8 weeks of age right up to their 8th birthday – although if you have a select breed dog you must insure your pet by their 5th birthday. Once insured, cover will continue for your pet's lifetime as long as you renew your policy each year.
What do I do when my pet dies?: You are covered if your pet dies from accident or illness – although you are not covered if your pet dies from old age.
Am I covered for boarding fees?: Most standard pet insurance policies will cover you in this instance. If you are hospitalised and cannot be at home to look after your pet, you will be covered for the cost of boarding your pet at a licensed kennel. Alternatively your insurance company will contribute towards the cost of homecare with a friend if you are hospitalised for more than 4 days.
Is my horse too old or too young to insure?: All companies differ with regard to the age of horses and ponies they will insure – so the only way to find out is to speak to each one individually.

Glossary of horse insurance terms

Asset - An item of value e.g. Horse, saddle or trailer

BEVA - British Equine Veterinary Association

BVA - British Veterinary Association

Euthanasia - The deliberate ending of life in order to relieve incurable pain and suffering

Excess - The amount you have to pay in the event of a claim

Insurance benefit - A specific area of cover that offers protection against financial loss or damage, e.g. for Death or Personal Accident

Market value - the price generally paid for a horse of the same age, breed, bloodline, sex and ability

Policy period - the length of your insurance contract, usually 12 months

Premium - the cost to you for your insurance policy

Sum insured - the amount you choose to insure your horse for, usually the same as the market value