Livestock Insurance

If you own a farm, you’ll know that animals are integral to the success of its operations. Whether you’re breeding prize-winning horses or raising cows for dairy, the best way to protect these assets is with livestock insurance. Oegema Nicholson and Associates can help you determine which coverages are best for you.

What is livestock insurance?

This important coverage is found under a broader farm insurance policy. It essentially covers against losses to farm animals, such as cattle, horses, sheep and pigs. Although usually reserved for domesticated species, it can protect exotic and aquatic animals, too. Livestock insurance will help pay to replace any livestock that is stolen, dies or has to be put down. Some policies, however may exclude deaths resulting from disease or old age. If you’d like these perils to be covered, you may have to pay an extra premium to cover these risks as well. Certain insurance providers will even cover animals that are hit by vehicles or killed in an accidental shooting. Benefits can apply to losses that happen while the animal is on-site or in transport. It’s crucial to understand the limitations of your livestock coverage. Insurance providers will cover the animal only up to a certain amount. For instance, a policy might cover up to $50,000 per animal and up to $1 million in losses for the entire farm. Thus it’s important you purchase enough coverage to protect the entire value of your livestock.

Should livestock be listed individually or as a herd?

Livestock may be scheduled individually or as a herd, like 50 head of sheep. It’s usually up to the owner as to what he or she feels is most convenient and efficient. However, a good rule of thumb is this: Animals that are high in value, such as those used for breeding, should be listed individually. Livestock may be identified in the insurance policy with a unique written description, an ear tag, or some other marking mechanism. It’s important to note that the term ‘livestock’ does not include birds. They are usually covered separately as ‘poultry’.

Is liability protection necessary?

If you run a farm in Canada, liability coverage is mandatory. This important coverage will protect you if someone is injured on your property. Liability protection will also cover medical expenses or legal defence costs should your livestock cause bodily harm. No matter how cautious you may be, accidents can happen — especially due to the unpredictability of animals. As the farm’s owner, you are responsible for the actions of your livestock. Speak to an associate at Oegema Nicholson to ensure you’re adequately insured for liability.

Does coverage exist for livestock producers?

Although rare, coverage certainly exists for feedlots and other livestock producers. These businesses can safeguard themselves against a sudden drop in livestock prices by purchasing risk protection insurance. This type of coverage is popular among businesses that sell cattle, swine or lambs to slaughterhouses.

How much does livestock insurance cost?

Oegema Nicholson is dedicated to bringing you the most affordable insurance premiums on the market. The cost of livestock insurance will depend on the number of animals you’d like to insure, the rarity of the species and whether they’re costly to replace. The location of your farming operation will also be a determining factor. Allow one of our trusted insurance brokers to shop around on your behalf for the best rates.

Why trust Oegema Nicholson?

Family-owned and operated since 1961, Oegema Nicholson has decades of experience catering to the needs of Canadian farmers. Because our brokerage doesn’t work for individual insurance firms, we’re able to protect our clients’ best interests at all times. With six office locations in Ontario and Quebec, Oegema Nicholson is well-equipped to offer you the best customer service in the region. So rely on our expertise to protect your livestock, so you can continue to focus on other areas of your business. For more information on livestock insurance, call us at 613-224-1455 or contact us here.

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Saul Mendoza (Salty)
Saul Mendoza (Salty)
2023-06-02
My broker Bill C. from ONA has helped me over the years now with my vehicle insurance. He is very cautious and detail oriented when processing documentation, and ensures I understand everything whenever there are any changes. He recently helped me cut my premium almost in half just by improving my record and shopping around at the appropriate time. I am grateful to him and the team for being there for me when I need them.
RMP Tutoring
RMP Tutoring
2022-05-14
I was assisted recently by Greg, who did a wonderful job in not only answering all of my questions and helping me to review pre-existing insurance plans, as well as advising me to look into my credit card/group insurance before needlessly purchasing more. This to me speaks highly of the character of the employee and business of a whole, and it is certainly the one I will be going to for any future needs.
Bobby SHARKS
Bobby SHARKS
2022-05-02
They get back to you fast an excellent insurance agent
lise sevigny
lise sevigny
2022-03-07
Have been with Oegema for over 30 yrs. Always great service!
Jamie C
Jamie C
2022-01-10
Friendly, knowledgeable and professional. They take care of all my insurance needs. Commercial, Home and Auto.
Bob Bent
Bob Bent
2022-01-10
Great service on both commercial and personal lines.
Jennifer Bardwell
Jennifer Bardwell
2021-06-04
I purchased commercial insurance with this company. Very professional service throughout, and a good price on the policy. Would highly recommend!
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Oegema, Nicholson Financial Inc.
1453 WOODROFFE AVENUE
613-686-6338
Ottawa
1451 Woodroffe Avenue
Ottawa, Ontario K2G 1W1
Manotick
5526 Manotick Main Street P.O. Box 149
Ottawa, Ontario K2G 1W1
Almonte
154 Bridge Street P.O. Box 749
Almonte, Ontario K0A 1A0
Russell
243 Castor Street
Russell, Ontario K4R 1B8
Orleans
3-3809 St. Joseph Blvd.
Orleans, Ontario K4A 0Z8
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