About pet insurance
With an estimated 6m dogs and
8m cats in the UK we are very much a nation of
pet lovers.
But just like all animals,
pets are not immune from illnesses or accidents.
Almost 50% of UK pets will require medical
treatment this year at an average cost of £220.
The cost of unexpected veterinary bills can be
hard to swallow and a simple accident or tummy
upset can put a serious dent into a household’s
monthly budget.
Including pet insurance
as part of planning for a pet could save many
owners from financial heartache. So many owners
disregard pet insurance
and see it as unnecessary until they receive
their first large vet’s bill. No one can predict
an accident or period of illness but it is best
to be prepared before taking the pet on.
It is important for pet owners to investigate
the different pet insurance
policies on offer and not just be lured by
the cheapest price. Cover can vary significantly
between the different pet insurance providers.
For many responsible pet owners, pet insurance
is one of the many ways of caring for their pet.
For a fairly modest premium
you can have your pets insured against the cost
of veterinary treatment so that in the event of
an accident, infection or serious disease you
don't have to worry about the cost of the
treatment. Pet insurance policies sometimes also
pay a lump sum on the death of the animal under
specific conditions.
Make sure that the Policy
covers the on-going, long-term treatment of
chronic conditions, and that your cover is
guaranteed if you renew the Policy every year.
Some pet insurance policies
exclude pets over specified age - check how this
will affect your pet as it gets older.
Most Pet
Insurance policies carry an "excess" which
means that you have to pay a small sum towards
the cost of any treatment claimed for under the
policy.
Premiums will normally be paid
monthly by direct debit to make paying and
budgeting for your pet insurance easier.
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