Potential horse owners should seek to comprehend the liabilities associated with horses
. Be committed to developing quality interactions with other horse owners in an effort to learn from their experiences. Seasoned equestrians can be effective counselors helping you to fully understand the scope of your commitment. Talk to local veterinarians to learn what you need to do to optimize your horse's health. Look for educational resources about your horses comprehensive veterinary care and management of tackle and stalls. The upkeep of horses and the associated property is quite expensive and requires an investment of your time and money.
Many horse owners incorporate their love of horses into service of their community. Horse devotees have developed therapeutic riding programs to help those with disabilities or learning challenges. These farms provide many a chance to serve as volunteers. There are opportunities such as helping with riding activities or maintaining the horses and facilities. Many times horse owners offer riding lessons or board horses as a method to support their strong interest and promote this same passion in those who cannot yet afford to take on horse ownership duties.
If your venture is open to the public, make a call to your state Attorney Generals office. Forty-four states expect specific wording on signs and contracts in order to protect horse professionals from liability claims. If you give riding instruction or therapeutic therapy, confer with an attorney in drawing up the proper agreement for participants to review and sign. Make sure to post signs in a conspicuous place so that all patrons will see and read it prior to entering horse activity areas.
Although posting appropriate signs and creating written contracts may aid in protecting you, phone your insurance agent about extra liability insurance. For example, you may have a participant's signed contract acknowledging the inherent risks associated with equine-related activities. Be that as it may, a child is injured and the parent is insistent that you are at fault. A commercial equine liability policy will help you pay those legal expenses and will pay on claims that are processed-even if it is a frivolous accusation.
Your horse business can be an encouragement to your life, but not if you fail to take the appropriate precautions. A call to your insurance agent is a logical first step toward guarding your venture. Your agent can help you assess your liability risks and find suitable protection for your individual circumstances. Looking out for the welfare of your clients, volunteers, horses and your family is paramount. You will be gratified you have invested time and energy in this endeavor.