More and more farmers are insuring working dogs

For farmers, working dogs are valued as an important working tool. Farms can keep teams of up to 10 such livestock animals, with the cost of each ranging from $5,000 and above, especially when it comes to elite dogs with good pedigrees. Gisborne veterinarian Dr. Robin Haasebroek from VetEast notes that approximately half of the 200 farmers she serves have insured their dogs, yet the specialist considers this figure insufficient.

The cost of treatment and surgeries for injuries varies greatly. For example, a livestock animal may fall off a cliff, break bones, and get a bruised chest, which will cost a minimum of $5,000 to $6,000 even without taking into account a specialized clinic. Insurance helps reduce financial stress for owners, although policies for working dogs and house pets are completely separated. When concluding agreements, the specialist advises studying the details carefully: whether the insurance covers death or loss of ability to work, and whether the payout in the event of death applies only to injuries or includes natural diseases.

Rural insurer FMG offers policies for farm dogs aged from six months to nine years. For specifically named animals in the contract, a fair market value is paid, and for others — up to $3,000 in case of death from accidents, diseases, and theft. Compensation of 75% of the cost is also provided if the dog loses its ability to perform its duties. According to FMG loss prevention manager Abby France, over the past five years, the number of insurance policies has decreased by 6%, which can be explained by changes in land use and a reduction in the number of working dogs. At the same time, owners of valuable animals have always willingly resorted to insurance.

The chairman of the meat and wool committee of Federated Farmers reported that approximately half of the association's members take out insurance policies for working dogs. Such insurance is often part of the compensation package for stockmen and is provided as a bonus to employees. According to his observations, insurance is more often taken out in large cattle herds, where livestock animals can be kicked, or on large plots with rugged terrain where dogs risk getting lost or injured.