Horse care insurance: strategically managing veterinary costs after the GOT adjustment
08.08.2025
5
Minutes
Katrin Straub
Managing Director at nextsure
Veterinary bills for your horse have risen by over 50 per cent since the new fee schedule for veterinarians (GOT). A well-considered horse insurance policy protects you from unpredictable costs of several thousand euros. Find out how to find the right cover and avoid financial shortfalls.
The topic in brief and concise terms
The fee schedule for veterinarians (GOT) from 2022 has increased treatment costs for horses by up to 60 per cent and more.
A horse care insurance policy should cover at least three times the GOT rate to provide adequate protection in emergencies or for complex treatments.
In addition to health insurance, horse owner’s liability insurance is essential, as under Section 833 of the German Civil Code (BGB) you are liable for all damage caused by your horse.
Rising costs in the stable: The impact of the new veterinary fee schedule
The schedule of fees for veterinarians (GOT) from 2022 has fundamentally changed the cost structure for horse owners. A general examination became almost 60 per cent more expensive, rising to 30.78 euros. Veterinarians can, depending on the effort involved and the time, charge up to four times the standard fee rate, making the final bill unpredictable. In particular, in weekend emergencies, an additional flat fee of 50 euros is charged before the actual treatment begins. These new regulations make forward-looking financial planning essential for every horse owner in order to ensure care. The right horse health insurance specifically cushions these peak costs. This turns a financial risk into a predictable monthly expense.
Surgery cover versus full cover: defining the right protection
An equine insurance policy offers different levels of cover for different needs. The basic horse surgery insurance covers only the costs of surgical procedures, which can quickly exceed €5,000. By contrast, comprehensive health cover also includes outpatient and inpatient treatment, such as lameness diagnostics or medication-based therapies. Monthly premiums for comprehensive cover start at around €235, which, compared with a single expensive treatment, is a manageable investment. The decision depends on your personal risk tolerance and financial reserves. Comprehensive cover offers extensive security, while surgery cover specifically addresses the biggest cost risks. Analysing your individual needs is the first step towards the right level of protection.
Scope of cover in detail: What a good policy should cover
A comprehensive horse health insurance plan goes far beyond merely covering the cost of operations. It should cover a wide range of treatments to ensure seamless care. Make sure that horse owner's liability insurance is also in place as a separate but necessary form of cover. A good health insurance policy for your horse usually includes the following:
Outpatient and inpatient treatment with free choice of vet.
Operations under standing or general anaesthesia, including ancillary costs, for up to 20 days of aftercare.
Modern diagnostic procedures such as MRI, CT and scintigraphy up to a sum of €1,500.
Reimbursement for medication, dressings and laboratory tests at 100 per cent.
Contribution towards preventive measures such as vaccinations and deworming treatments of up to €100 per year.
Regenerative therapies and dental treatments in accordance with specific tariff benefits.
This comprehensive cover ensures that, in an emergency, you can always make the best medical decision for your horse.
Expert knowledge: Understanding GOT rates and the legal framework
For horse owners, understanding the legal basics is crucial. The GOT allows veterinarians to charge the standard fee up to four times the amount, depending on the complexity and time involved. A high-performing horse care insurance policy should reimburse at least three times the rate, so that you are not left with high out-of-pocket costs for emergency call-outs or complicated procedures. Our expert tip: check the insurance terms carefully for the maximum GOT cover. In addition, as a horse owner you are liable under section 833 of the German Civil Code (BGB) for all damage caused by your horse – liability irrespective of fault. This comprehensive responsibility underlines the need to protect against financial risks both in the event of illness and for liability claims. Knowing these details enables a well-informed choice of insurance cover.
Finding the optimal tariff: Five key criteria
Choosing the right horse insurance requires a careful review of the policy details. To find the right protection, you should consider five key points that go beyond the premium alone. These criteria will help you separate the wheat from the chaff and make a long-term, sustainable decision for your horse and your wallet. A look at our guide to pet health insurance can provide additional guidance.
GOT rate cover: Choose a policy that covers at least three times, ideally four times, the GOT rate so you are prepared for emergencies.
Benefit limits: Check the annual maximum reimbursement limit; many good policies offer unlimited cover.
Waiting periods: Note the waiting times that must pass before full entitlement to benefits applies, often three months for treatments and only seven days for colic.
Excess: Work out whether a higher excess makes sense for you in order to reduce the monthly premium.
Additional benefits: Look out for cover for preventative care, alternative treatments or stays abroad.
A thorough analysis of these factors will lead you to the best possible protection.
Conclusion: Investing proactively in your horse's health
The rising veterinary costs pose a serious financial challenge for horse owners. A comprehensive horse care insurance policy turns unforeseeable risks into predictable expenses and secures the best possible medical care for your animal. It is an investment that, in an emergency, not only saves thousands of euros, but above all protects your horse's health. With the right knowledge of GOT, liability and tariff details, you can make an informed decision. Request an individual risk analysis now: Have your insurance situation reviewed free of charge and receive concrete suggestions for improvement.
More useful links
The Bundestierärztekammer provides comprehensive information on the fee schedule for veterinarians (GOT), specifically for pet owners.
A press release from the Bundestierärztekammer provides information about the amendment to the GOT (fee schedule for veterinarians) in August 2022.
Statista provides data on existing and desired horse insurance policies.
The Deutsche Reiterliche Vereinigung (FN) provides figures and facts on the topic of equestrian sport.
The Verbraucherzentrale examines in an article the usefulness of health insurance for pets.
The GDV (Gesamtverband der Deutschen Versicherungswirtschaft) provides an overview of statistics on the German insurance industry.
FAQ
What does horse care insurance cover?
Comprehensive horse care insurance covers the costs of operations, outpatient and inpatient treatment, diagnostic procedures such as X-rays or MRI scans, medication and often also a contribution towards preventive measures such as vaccinations.
Is there a waiting period for horse care insurance?
Yes, most plans have a general waiting period of three months. For emergencies such as colic operations, a shortened waiting period of just seven to ten days often applies.
Can I still insure my old horse?
Yes, many insurers offer policies with no age restriction at the time of enrolment. However, premiums for older horses may be higher, or certain age-related conditions may be excluded from cover.
Is free choice of vet included in the insurance?
Usually, yes. Good plans guarantee you the free choice of vet or veterinary clinic, so you can always place your horse in the hands of a specialist you trust.
What is the Fee Schedule for Veterinarians (GOT)?
The GOT is a nationwide regulation in Germany that specifies which fees veterinarians may charge for their services. It sets out a fee range (from one to four times the standard rate) that is applied depending on the effort involved and the circumstances.
Why is horse owner's liability insurance also important?
As a horse owner, under the law (§ 833 BGB) you are liable without limit for all damage caused by your animal, regardless of your own fault. Horse owner’s liability insurance protects you against these financial claims, which can run into the millions.
