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Petplan Equine, the equine insurance specialist, has launched the nominations for the Equine Vet of the Year Award 2009. This is the perfect opportunity to nominate the vet that goes above and beyond with his care of horses and also their owners.

The Petplan Equine Equestrian Vet of the Year Award reflects both Petplan Equine's involvement with the veterinary profession and the huge contribution made by local vets to the equine community. You can nominate online by visiting www.petplanequine.co.uk/events

Andrew Dobson of The Barn Equine and Large Animal Practice in Great Wakering, Essex, is the current 2008 Equine of the Year. He was nominated by a number of his grateful clients and their glowing testimonials impressed the judges enough to give him the edge over his closest rivals for this coveted title.

The 37 year old qualified in 1999 and for the last four and a half years has run his own practice. His involvement with horses evolved from a desire to work with large animals and the outdoor life it would bring.

Andrew comments on his win, "I was absolutely stunned. I'm so honoured and amazed to have received the Petplan Equine Vet of the Year award. I really enjoy what I do and would like thank all my clients, Petplan Equine and The Animal Health Trust for their support."

If you feel you know a vet that displays equine clinical excellence and fantastic customer care you can nominate online by visiting www.petplanequine.co.uk/events/. Nominations close 3rd October 2009. An independent panel will judge the nominations and the winning vet will be announced at the prestigious Animal Health Trust UK Equestrian Awards in London, in November 2009.

Notes to Editors:

For further information please contact: Kate Mallett on 0208 580 8194 or email [email protected]

• Petplan Equine was founded in 1988
• It is part of Allianz Animal Health, the largest provider of animal health insurance in the world and part of Allianz - one of the largest general insurers in the UK
• In addition to horse and pony insurance options, Petplan Equine provides dedicated products for veteran horses and rider only insurance cover
• It is the sister brand of Petplan, the largest provider of small animal insurance in the UK
• Allianz Animal Health handled more than 375,000 claims in 2006, over 7,200 per week and paid out approximately £2.4 million in claims per week
• Petplan Equine believes in supporting the equine community and provides more financial support to equestrian sports and activities than any equine insurance provider in the UK
• Sponsorships for 2008 include the Petplan Equine National Riding Festival, the British Dressage Area festivals, Lucinda Green "Cross Country the Safe Way" clinics
• The Pet Plan Charitable Trust was founded in 1994 to raise much needed funds for animal welfare and veterinary projects. Money is raised by Petplan and Petplan Equine customers giving an optional £1.50 to the Trust when they take out or renew their policy. To date, almost £5 million has been awarded by the Trust
• Petplan and Petplan Equine are specialist insurers. As such, the company employs more horse riders and owners than any other and more former veterinary practice staff than any other to ensure the provision of specialist knowledge
• Petplan Equine is committed to promoting responsible horse ownership. It has produced a useful guide for horse owners or those thinking about owning a horse to help with everything from feeding to travel

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