Even the most experienced, skilled practitioners aren’t immune to risk.

Equine bodywork professionals provide the critical support horses need to stay sound, balanced, and at their best. Whether it’s a weekend warrior needing relief after a strenuous trail ride or a top-level competitor preparing for a major show, your hands-on techniques are essential to their care and performance.

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Equine Professional Services Application with Mary Phelps and Markel

It’s Not Just a Precaution—It’s A Necessity

As a hands-on, mobile profession that often involves working in ever-changing environments, accidents can happen. A horse might react unpredictably during a session. Expensive equipment could be damaged in transit. A client might allege negligence if a horse experiences discomfort after treatment.

That’s why Markel developed equine liability insurance designed specifically for bodywork professionals.

Equine Bodywork Is a Profession

Blending a deep anatomical knowledge, physical skill, and emotional intuition. You work in a space where trust is everything: between you and your clients, and between you and their horses.

That’s why we offer coverage that’s as specialized as the work you do. Our Equine Service Professional insurance program is built for professionals who provide services to horses—but don’t own the animals themselves—making it a perfect fit for equine massage therapists, bodyworkers, PEMF providers, craniosacral therapists, and others in the field.

Liability Protection That Moves With You

Whether you’re working out of a stable, at a showground, or making barn calls across multiple states, your coverage should follow you wherever your work takes you. Markel offers:

• Commercial general liability coverage that applies both on and off premises throughout the United States and U.S. territories.
• Liability limits ranging from \$300,000 to \$1 millionper occurrence, with general liability aggregate limits up to three times the per-occurrence limit—giving you flexibility based on the size and scope of your business.
• No liability deductible, so you’re not caught off guard with unexpected out-of-pocket costs.

This means you’re protected if a horse is injured during a session, if property is damaged while you’re working, or if a client alleges that your services led to harm—helping you navigate potential lawsuits with confidence.

Additional Coverages That Fit Your Practice

In addition to robust general liability, Markel’s policy offers **additional coverages that are especially relevant for bodyworkers**:

Care, Custody, and Control (CCC)

If you temporarily care for or handle a horse that you don’t own—even for a few hours—this optional coverage provides protection. It includes defense costs and coverage for court-ordered judgments (within policy limits) if a horse is injured, becomes ill, or dies while in your care. A **per-animal limit applies**, making it especially useful if you work on high-value or performance horses.

Equipment Coverage

Your equipment is more than just tools—it’s your livelihood. PEMF machines, massage tables, laser therapy devices, and other modalities represent significant investments. Our equipment coverage protects those assets from loss, theft, or damage—so you’re not sidelined by an unexpected replacement cost.

Excess Liability

For professionals with larger operations or higher-value clients, excess liability coverage is available. This extends your protection beyond your base liability limits and offers peace of mind in the event of a serious claim. To qualify, your **primary general liability policy must be written with Markel**, ensuring seamless integration of your coverage layers.

Your Reputation Is Your Business—Protect It With Confidence

In the equine world, your reputation travels fast. A single lawsuit—even if unfounded—can disrupt your business, damage client trust, and drain your finances. Insurance doesn’t just protect your bottom line—it protects your name, your relationships, and your ability to keep doing what you love.

At Markel, we don’t offer one-size-fits-all coverage. We work closely with you or your insurance agent to craft a policy that reflects your services, your scope of work, and your specific needs. Whether you’re just starting your practice or have an established clientele, we help ensure that your insurance evolves with your business.

Why Equine Bodywork Professionals Trust Markel

You’re passionate about horse health. We’re passionate about protecting the professionals who make that possible. When you choose Markel, you’re backed by a team that understands horses, knows the industry, and stands ready to support you when it matters most.

Let us help you build a stronger foundation for your business—so you can keep your focus where it belongs: on the horse in front of you.