Equine Law & Horse Insurance in Southern California: A Guide for Equestrian Owners

Originally featured in the 2014 Equine Almanac

Owning a horse is both a passion and a significant responsibility. Whether you're competing at the highest levels, operating a training facility, managing an equestrian property, or enjoying recreational riding, understanding equine law and insurance is an important part of protecting your investment.

From liability coverage and equine health insurance to legal contracts and business protection, Southern California's equestrian community has long relied on experienced professionals who understand the unique risks associated with horse ownership.

The 2014 Equine Almanac highlighted several insurance agencies and attorneys serving horse owners, trainers, farms, and equestrian businesses throughout California and beyond.

Understanding Equine Insurance: What Horse Owners Should Know

Every horse, owner, and insurance policy is different. Choosing appropriate coverage requires considering the horse's value, health, training program, competition schedule, and individual circumstances.

An experienced insurance agent can help explain available policies, identify potential gaps in coverage, and recommend options suited to your needs.

The original Equine Almanac emphasized three important areas of protection: liability, health, and personal insurance.

Equine Liability Insurance

Liability is an important consideration for anyone who owns, trains, boards, or handles horses.

The Almanac recommends using liability releases when participating in equestrian activities. These documents are intended to acknowledge the risks involved and may provide a defense if an accident occurs.

Horse owners should also review their homeowners' or renters' insurance policies to determine whether incidents involving their horses are covered.

Because equestrian activities present specialized risks, additional equine liability coverage may be appropriate.

The effectiveness of liability releases and the availability of insurance protection depend on applicable law and individual policy terms.

Equine Health & Medical Insurance

Proper maintenance, safe stabling, and responsible transportation are important parts of protecting a horse's health.

However, accidents and medical emergencies can happen unexpectedly, sometimes resulting in substantial veterinary expenses.

When evaluating equine health coverage, horse owners should consider:

• The horse's value

• Age and medical history

• Pre-existing conditions

• Competition and travel schedule

• Physical demands and training level

• Potential veterinary and surgical expenses

These factors can help guide discussions with an equine insurance professional about the type and amount of coverage to consider.

Personal Insurance & Equestrian Property Protection

Beyond insuring the horse itself, the Almanac encourages owners to review their personal insurance policies annually.

Horse owners who maintain private equestrian properties or operate equine businesses may need to consider additional protection for their facilities, operations, and related liabilities.

Regular conversations with an insurance agent can help ensure coverage continues to reflect changing circumstances.

Equine Insurance Agencies in Southern California

Taylor, Harris Insurance Services | Equine Insurance Specialists

Founded in 1987 by Michael Taylor, Taylor, Harris Insurance Services established itself as a specialized insurance provider for equine risks.

The company focused on understanding the needs of horse owners and equestrian professionals, drawing on its team's firsthand experience within the horse industry.

In 2013, equine insurance agent Al Schlom joined the company, bringing extensive experience in equine and personal insurance.

A lifelong horse enthusiast, Schlom combined his knowledge of the insurance industry with his passion for riding and training.

Taylor, Harris offered coverage for horses across different breeds and stages of life, as well as property and casualty insurance for homes, equestrian businesses, and facilities.

The company also supported equestrian competitions and events throughout the United States.

“Our goal is protection for your horses at all stages of life for your peace of mind.”

Equine Insurance | Parker General Insurance

Equine Insurance, a division of Parker General Insurance, was featured as a provider of equine and farm-related insurance throughout the Western United States.

Parker General Insurance began as an independent agency in Fresno, California, in 1964.

In 1993, the company acquired Equine Insurance and appointed Donna Chopp to manage its equine division.

The agency developed its reputation through knowledgeable staff, customer service, and experience working with horse owners, farms, trainers, and equestrian organizations.

Its insurance services included coverage for:

• Horses and livestock

• Farms and equestrian properties

• Equestrian businesses

• Competition horses

• Other farm-related risks

The agency also supported the equestrian industry through sponsorships of riders and horse shows.

“Specializing in equine & farm related coverages.”

Momentous Insurance Brokerage | Van Nuys

Momentous Insurance Brokerage was featured as a full-service insurance and risk management company serving clients across a variety of industries.

Its specialty practices included equine insurance, high-net-worth personal insurance, entertainment, professional athletics, restaurants, and hospitality.

The company offered customized insurance programs designed around the specific needs of individuals and businesses.

Momentous emphasized a collaborative approach to client service, combining industry knowledge, carrier relationships, and technology.

In addition to its insurance services, the company was recognized in the Almanac for its philanthropic involvement.

“We take care of your insurance so that you can focus on what you do best.”

Equine Law Attorneys in Southern California

Equine law encompasses a wide range of legal matters involving horses, owners, trainers, facilities, and equestrian businesses.

Contracts, insurance disputes, liability claims, veterinary malpractice allegations, and business transactions can all require specialized legal knowledge.

The 2014 Equine Almanac highlighted attorneys whose professional experience included equestrian-related legal matters.

Robert Scapa | Scapa Law Group

Robert Scapa developed a legal career combining civil and business litigation with his personal passion for horses.

After attending California State University, Northridge, he pursued law school and established his own practice.

Scapa Law Group operated as a boutique firm, emphasizing close relationships and personalized attention to clients.

An active polo player, Scapa brought firsthand equestrian experience to his legal work.

His practice included matters involving:

• Equine contracts

• Equestrian facility development

• Insurance disputes

• Veterinary malpractice claims

• Civil and business litigation

• Representation involving the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF)

At the time of publication, Scapa had represented notable equestrian clients and handled numerous jury trials.

His approach combined legal experience with an understanding of the complexities of the horse industry.

“You're only as happy as you allow yourself to be.”

Bing I. Bush, Jr. | Law Offices of Bing I. Bush, Jr.

With lifelong ties to the horse industry through his roots in Lexington, Kentucky, Bing Bush, Jr. developed a legal practice encompassing equine law, personal injury, business matters, and estate planning.

Based in Del Mar, California, Bush represented a broad range of clients, from individuals to businesses.

His professional background included extensive litigation experience, business transactions, and equestrian-related legal matters.

Before establishing his own firm, Bush worked as an associate and partner at Mullen, Plummer, Badger & Bush in San Diego.

His practice also included arbitration and mediation, helping clients evaluate disputes and explore potential settlements outside the courtroom.

Bush emphasized experience, personal attention, and a practical approach to resolving legal challenges.

“Experience, integrity & passion = results.”

Why Specialized Equine Legal & Insurance Professionals Matter

The equestrian industry presents unique circumstances that may not be fully addressed by general insurance policies or legal services.

Horse ownership often involves multiple parties, including trainers, boarding facilities, veterinarians, farriers, transport companies, and competition organizers.

For equestrian business owners, additional considerations may include facility operations, employee responsibilities, contracts, and property-related risks.

Professionals familiar with the horse industry can help owners better understand these relationships and the potential responsibilities involved.

Protecting Your Horse, Property & Equestrian Lifestyle

From purchasing a horse to operating a private barn or competing on the national circuit, protecting your equestrian interests requires thoughtful planning.

Reviewing insurance coverage, maintaining appropriate agreements, and developing relationships with knowledgeable legal and insurance professionals can help horse owners make informed decisions.

The Equine Almanac emphasizes the importance of working with an agent who understands your needs and can explain insurance matters clearly.

As Mark Twain famously said:

“If you tell the truth, you don't have to remember anything.”

Editor's Note: This article is adapted and condensed from the 2014 Equine Almanac. Professional affiliations, services, and business information reflect the original publication and may have changed. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or insurance advice. Consult a qualified attorney or licensed insurance professional for guidance specific to your circumstances.