Sporting animals insurance

For more on this part of the insurance industry: 

1. visit our Animals Insurance page for a look at all products in this sector 
2. or focus in on all of the sporting animals insurance products available on IB Markets! 

What is sporting animals insurance? 

Sporting animals insurance protects businesses, individuals, and organisations involved in competitive and recreational animal sports. The insurance covers many incidents that can happen in these industries, such as: 

• injuries to animals during competition or training 
• theft or loss of high-value animals like sport horses and falcons 
• public liability claims if an animal injures someone or damages property 
• equipment loss, including stolen tack, falconry gear, or fishing rods 
• event cancellations due to unforeseen circumstances 

From horse racing at Cheltenham Festival to pigeon racing in northern England, sporting animals play a major role in the UK's sports industry. Ensuring financial protection for these animals and their owners is essential. 

Why sporting animals insurance in the UK matters 

The Cheltenham Festival in 2024 recorded a rise in equine injuries, with multiple horses sustaining serious accidents during races.  

Some owners had insurance covering veterinary fees and loss of use. Others without proper coverage struggled with huge bills and lost their racehorses entirely. 

Sporting animals insurance: industry trends and emerging risks 

Greyhound racing’s 100th anniversary has increased demand for event liability, injury cover, and track insurance. Insurers now offer discounts for sustainable pet care which reflects eco-friendly trends.  

AI-driven risk assessments help tailor policies based on health, breed, and activity. This improves pricing and coverage. Sporting animals insurance brokers must be aware of hazards like: 

• greyhound racing injuries: despite welfare efforts, racing still causes injuries which increases vet costs 
• tick-borne diseases in hunting dogs: rising cases raise vet bills and sporting animals insurance claims 
• game bird habitat loss: farming changes reduce populations which affects hunting and insurance 

The illegal wildlife trade threatens falconry birds which adds the need for theft and loss coverage. Pigeon paramyxovirus is also rising. This leads to higher illness claims. 

Sporting animals insurance FAQs 

Who needs sporting animals insurance coverage? 

Entities that require this economic safety net are those involved in sporting activities with animals. Stakeholders include: 

• racehorse owners and trainers  
• greyhound racing teams 
• falconers and bird handlers  
• game bird breeders and shooting clubs  
• angling instructors and fishing clubs  

Even those who do not directly handle the animals like sponsors and event organisers face legal and financial risks in sporting events. This makes sporting animals insurance necessary for everyone involved. 

Are hobby and professional sporting animals insured differently? 

Hobby sporting animal owners often get basic policies covering accidents, liability, and theft. Professional handlers need comprehensive coverage for competitions, public events, and high-value animals. 

What are common sporting animals insurance coverage options? 

Sporting animals insurance offers various coverage options to shield against sudden events and monetary losses. Common coverage options include: 

• veterinary fees: covers costs of medical treatments due to illness or injury 
• death or theft: provides compensation if the animal dies or is stolen 
• public liability: secures against legal claims if the animal causes injury or property damage 
• loss of use: compensates if the animal can no longer perform its intended function 
• equipment cover: insures against loss or damage to equipment like saddles or falconry gear 

These sporting animals insurance coverage options help manage financial threats associated with owning and managing these creatures. 

How does sporting animals insurance help protect clients? 

Below are examples of how this insurance can support clients: 

Accidental injury 

If a racehorse is injured during training, insurance can cover veterinary expenses. This reduces the financial burden on the owner. 

Third-party liability 

Should a hunting dog cause property damage or injure someone, liability coverage safeguards the owner from legal costs and compensation claims. 

Event cancellation 

If an animal show is cancelled due to unexpected circumstances, event insurance can reimburse organisers for lost income and expenses. 

Which animals are used for racing? 

In the UK, common racing animals include: 

• horses 
• greyhounds 
• pigeons 
• whippets 

Each racing animal needs training and care for safety and performance. The Animal Welfare Act 2006 ensures proper treatment and protection in sports.  

Sporting animals insurance, from equine cover to pigeon racing policies, provides financial protection for owners and trainers. 

How do sporting animal disciplines impact insurance pricing? 

Sporting animals insurance costs vary based on the specific risks of each sport:  

• equestrian sports: high injury risks lead to higher premiums 
• dog sports: activities like flyball and canicross may have moderate premiums due to possible injuries 
• pigeon racing: lower premiums reflect fewer physical dangers 
• falconry: specialised care requirements can increase insurance costs 
• angling: minimal animal-related risks result in lower premiums 

Insurers assess these factors to find out the proper coverage and pricing.