08 January 2008 09:28
When my new horse was vetted it was noted that he had a small bony lump on his lower leg which is not expected to cause any problems at all. However, that leg is now excluded on my insurance, and I feel I have been penalised for being honest and admitting to getting the horse vetted in the first place.
Answer
By Your Horse
Exclusions are the bane of many a horse owner’s life, and identify an area, or eventuality, that is not insured. This is usually a particular part of the horse, such as a leg, and can seem unfair – especially if the exclusion is wide ranging or because of an injury or illness suffered some years back.
Insurers claim the placing of an exclusion is often necessary because the condition has far-reaching implications, and that insurance is designed to cover the unexpected – not something likely to recur. Occasionally, an exclusion is placed just for a year, then waived if no further trouble arises. You can challenge an exclusion with your insurer. Most companies will reconsider if your vet submits appropriate evidence.