Anyone have advice re claiming insurance for back problems?

[Jericho]

Have just been thinking - as a couple of things have happened with my new horsey which indicates that he may or may not have a back or hip problem. I have him insured but the terms of the insurance say that vet fees are only covered "for an injury or illness that
has happened or started during this period of insurance." If it is a back problem then surely this is likely due to wear and tear / longer term issues than as a result of any accident so would he be covered for this?? If I had been riding him etc but suspected there was a problem and called the vet to come out and the vet says stop riding, he has kissing spine etc then what happens? Anyone with any experience of this?

 

[scotsmare]

Back problems are totally subjective and could have happened the day you bought him - you're not to know that and frankly neither are the insurance company. Kissing spines is a longer term diagnosis - the vet won't pitch up and tell you that's his problem on the spot.

Ultimately, it depends on your vet and the insurance company. What is actually the problem with your horse?

 

[Jericho]

well he is fine being ridden / jumping / stands still to be mounted but seems touchy around his loins / hips and was really upset when the farrier did his back feet (lifting them high/out) and not keen on having his saddle on. I know there is a history of bad saddle fitting which might explain some of it but I am beginning to worry there is more to it. Old owner had back checked every year with no problems (so she said) and he passed 2 stage vetting but he doesnt have great hind leg conformation - slightly sickle hocked, plaits with one hind leg and just about tracks up which may be why he looks a bit awkward and this is just a seperate issue from the touchiness and wariness to pick up back feet high (but I am feeling not...)
Hes insured with E&L which reading some posts here may be a big big mistake -argghhh