08 January 2008 09:16
I have been offered an 18-year-old Welsh x TB gelding on permanent loan as his owners want him to retire to a light hacking home. I know the horse well, love him to bits and he hasn’t had a day off sick in his life, although he is now getting a bit stiff and doesn’t jump any more. I’m just worried I won’t be able to get insurance and will end up with expensive vet’s bills.
Answer
By Your Horse
It can be surprising to discover the lack of cover available for your apparently hale and hearty veteran. Most insurance companies deem the older horse a greater risk. ‘Mature’ and ‘veteran’ policies exist, but check the benefits carefully – vet’s fees cover is often restricted to ‘external accidental visible injury’ and rarely covers colic.
If you own a horse in his early teens, start thinking ahead. If he’s insured by his 16th year, a number of companies such as Equestrian Direct, Petplan Equine and AmTrust Equine will continue illness and injury cover until the age of 20.