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.