Pet insurance could save you a fortune

According to a major UK pet insurance company having some form of pet insurance in place could help some pet owners to save a fortune on the cost of caring for their beloved pets over the course of their lifetime.

Britain is known to be a nation of animal lovers, and most pet owners want the best for their pets, particularly when it comes to their health. However, those with no form of insurance cover in place could face crippling costs or a heartbreaking decision if their pet is injured or falls ill and required surgery or expensive treatment.

According to the UK pet insurance specialists Petplan, a dog, with a typical lifespan of twelve years, could cost around £14,750 over its lifetime, and a cat, with a typical lifespan of sixteen years, could cost around £14,230. The insurance company goes on to state that the rising cost of veterinary consultations and treatments is why many decide to take out pet insurance cover, and for many this acts as a real life saver – literally in some cases – when their pets need surgery or treatments following accidents, injuries, and illness.

Figures indicate that there are many more claims made on pet insurance each year in the UK compared to other types of insurance cover. Around 34% of pet insurance policyholders make a claim each year compared with around 9% of other types of insurance policyholders. However, it is important for pet owners to ensure that the cover that they take out is comprehensive and will provide them with the necessary protection for their pet.

Premiums can vary based upon the type of pet, its health and medical history, and its age, so consumers are urged to shop around and check the cost of cover as well as the level of protection provided.

Tom Smith
27th September 2007

Related links:

• Insurance : Do You Care More About Your Pet Than Yourself?
• How Do Insurance Companies Work Out Premiums?

Tags: dog, vet, cost, pet, treatments, cover