Why do I need pet insurance?

If your cat or dog were unfortunate enough to break a leg you could be left to pick up a vet’s bill of up to £1,000. Since there is no NHS equivalent for animals, owners often have to make a financial sacrifice to protect their pets’ health and well-being.

As vet's fees continue to rise, and advanced veterinary care allows pets to live longer, pet insurance is an increasingly sensible way to save significantly in the long run.

Find the best pet insurance plan for your needs.

What can pet insurance cover?

1. Vets fees
   Generally insurance policies cover surgery, hospitalisation and treatment as a result of an accident or illness.



2. Holiday cancellation costs
   If your pet has to have emergency surgery within 14 days of your holiday departure date or whilst you are away, your insurance policy could cover your holiday cancellation costs.



3. Boarding kennel/cattery fees
   Apart from boarding fees when necessary, this can also provide home care if you are hospitalised for more than three days.



4. Third party public liability
   Provides coverage in the event that your pet causes injury or damage to someone else or their property.



5. Advertising and reward
   If your pet is lost, local advertising and a reward could be covered.



6. Death from illness and loss by theft or straying
   Your insurer will recompense you up to the current market value or the original cost of your pet should it die or go missing. Your pet may have to be under 8 years old for this to apply.



7. Pet psychologist/counselling costs/alternative therapies
   Some comprehensive polices cover the cost of pet psychologists, owner counselling and/or alternative therapies, such as acupuncture, for your pet.

Exclusions to be aware of

Pet insurance will generally not cover the cost of the following:

• routine vaccinations, worming or flea control
• any treatment not directly related to illness
• spaying or castration
• having your pet put down or cremated