Information for Owners

Vaccinations

Why should I vaccinate my pet and how often?

Fleas and Worms

Why and how often should I use preventative treatments?

Neutering

Why is this beneficial and what does it involve?

Microchipping

What is microchipping and what does it involve?

Nutrition

How to choose the best food for your pet

Insurance

Why should I insure my pet and how do I choose the best policy?

Pet Passports

Why are they needed and how do I get one for my pet?

Pet Insurance

Why take out pet insurance

Unfortunately we never know when our pets will become ill or be injured, and when it involves extensive, complicated or long-term treatment this can create a lot of financial pressure. By taking out pet insurance you can remove this pressure and have peace of mind knowing should there be a problem with your pet you can give them the best treatment with no worry about cost.

How does it work?

Pet insurance works in the same way as normal insurance, you pay a monthly premium which gives you an agreed level of cover. There are varying options which affect factors such as the maximum payout and the excess you must pay for each claim etc. See below for details of the main types of policy.

Cover for life policies

These provide the best option. These policies have an annual benefit which is renewed each year and provides continuous cover for long term and recurring conditions.
For example if the Company pays out up to £7000 in a policy year the full £7000 benefit is reinstated as soon as the renewal date is reached. If the policy is "with penalties" then premiums may increase in line with claiming.

Maximum benefit policys

These policies provide a fixed maximum benefit for each condition claimed.
For example the company may pay out £7000 for each illness over your pet's lifetime. The downside is that some conditions can be very costly and affect your pet for many years (For example heart or skin conditions); in these cases if the maximum benefit is reached the ongoing costs fall to the owner to pay.

12 month policies

These policies only provide limited long-term cover.
A condition is only covered for a maximum of twelve months from the first symptom, not just from the first claim. Any fees occuring after the 12-month period will be declined by the insurance company. It is therefore possible to be excluded from claiming for a condition without ever submitting a claim or even having any treatment.

Remember!

Always read the small print and make sure you fully understand all the terms and conditions before taking out a policy.