In the show ring, appearance matters—and behind every polished, professional turnout is the skill and artistry of a braider. As a professional equine braider, you’re one of the unsung heroes of the competition world. Your early mornings, long hours, and eye for detail help horses and riders step into the spotlight looking their best. But while you focus on presentation, who’s protecting you?
Let’s get started with this application; it doesn’t take long, and it doesn’t cost that much. Please select Horsesdaily’s Mary Phelps on the application. I’m available and here to help.
cell/ text 859-940-8517 – office – 1-800-572-3286
mary.phelps@markel.com

With the same attention detail and personal service I provide for all my clients, horses, trainers, owners, grooms, and equine health workers, I can help you have the peace of mind and protection which is often required by farms and show facilities.

Whether you’re braiding at hunter/jumper shows, breed circuits, or three-day events, your work comes with risks. You’re handling horses you don’t own, working in unfamiliar barns or showgrounds, often under tight deadlines. A misstep, equipment loss, or unexpected accident could leave you exposed.

That’s why Markel’s Equine Service Professional insurance is essential. With over 50 years of experience in the horse industry, Markel understands that behind every great mane or tail is a professional who needs reliable protection.

Why Braiders Need Specialized Insurance

From injury claims to damaged tack trunks to unexpected legal disputes, professional braiders are vulnerable to liabilities most people don’t see. Even with years of experience, things can go wrong:

A horse spooks while you’re braiding, injuring you or someone nearby.

You accidentally damage a client’s saddle or custom equipment.

A client alleges that their horse developed skin irritation due to a grooming product you used.

Markel’s insurance is designed to handle these kinds of real-world situations so that you can focus on your work, not worst-case scenarios.

Coverage Highlights for Braiders

Equine Liability Insurance

Choose liability limits from $300,000 to $1 million, with aggregate limits up to three times the occurrence limit. This covers bodily injury, property damage, and legal costs—on or off premises anywhere in the U.S. and U.S. territories.

No Liability Deductible

That’s right—zero deductible on liability coverage, so you don’t pay out of pocket when claims happen.

Care, Custody, and Control (CCC)

If you’re handling or grooming a horse that’s not yours, this optional coverage is critical. CCC covers defense and judgments (within policy limits) if something happens to the horse in your care.

Equipment Coverage

From shears and grooming totes to travel trunks and personal tools, your gear is your livelihood. Optional equipment coverage protects against theft, loss, or damage to essential items.

Excess Liability

For added protection, you can opt for excess liability coverage when your general liability policy is written with Markel. This gives you peace of mind with an additional layer of financial protection.

Professional Support for a Professional Role

You may work behind the scenes, but your work is front and center when a horse enters the ring. Markel’s mission is to ensure your business is just as polished and protected as the horses you prepare. Our policies are crafted with your profession in mind—whether you braid full-time, seasonally, or while traveling the show circuit.

When you work hard to make horses look their best, your insurance should help you feel your best—confident, secure, and ready to shine.