Horse insurance

I am thinking about getting Paul insured within the next month or two. I don't even know where to start. I could use any and all help. I am thinking about going with Markel Insurance as recommended by AQHA. What coverage should I get and what is an average cost. He is just a western trail horse. Thanks so much.

The premium is normally 10% of your horse's value. For example, if he's worth $5,000, your yearly premium would be $500. I have the whole smash, major medical, accident and mortality. I purchased insurance mostly to cover the cost of colic surgery should it ever happen. I don't have that kind of money lying around. I've already used it twice for major medical claims. If I didn't have insurance, I'd be out about $4000 to date.

I would suggest calling a few companies for quotes. Confirm what it covers. Be aware that once you file a claim on something, they will never cover anything in that category ever again. I filed for EPM last year, so now I can never get anything neurological covered in the future.

If you're financially challenged, I highly recommend having insurance. There's just too much that can go wrong.

How is value of your horse determined?

Usually by how much you paid for it or if you're valuing it more than you bought it for they normally ask why and need you to provide proof that it is worth more.

Now, I haven't found the cost to be near so high. I have theft and mortality with colic surgery coverage on my two Arab mares, and I need to get it on my stallion as well. It is $150.00 a year for the first $5k of coverage. They will not cover less than $5k, and unless you need around 10k or more in coverage, you just tell them you paid $5K for the horse or whatever, and they will accept that.

Plamp-Keen Agency

They are very helpful and personal service oriented at that agency. Highly recommended to me from my mare's breeder as well.

Quick and easy - one form to fill out - and that is it. No vet needed or anything unless you're talking a lot more than $5k in value.

A couple of years ago, a horse in GA was bought as a 2 year old colt, insured for $5,000. Colt was started, and owner started showing the colt successfully - won 5 major shows - is now refusing to sell the animal for 25K. Horse is injured and dies! Guess what the insurance paid - 5K. If the value of your animal goes up, you have to adjust your policy! Food for thought!