Pets not just for Christmas, insurance company warns

Mon, 05 Dec 2005

The 1.4 million Britons who are considering getting a new pet this Christmas are being warned that they should not underestimate the time and financial commitment that goes into buying a four-legged friend.

Pet insurance company, Sainsbury's Bank, has expressed its concern that people do not realise exactly how much time and money their purchase will cost them.

During a cat's average lifespan of 14 to 15 years, the insurance company estimates that it will cost its owners up to £9,500 in inoculations and food.

Dogs, living an average 13 to 15 years, cost owners up to £1,000 every year, the bank warns, adding that rising vet fees add to the financial burden.

Vet fees are expected to increase by 20 per cent over the next year, which is something potential pet owners should consider, the insurance company says.

David Pickett, pet insurance manager at Sainsbury's Bank, says it is important that potential pet owners not only weigh up the costs of the feeding and housing of a new pet.

"They also need to bear in mind how much it would cost to treat their pet if it were to have an accident or become ill," he says, adding that with increasing vets' fees rising, the need for adequate pet insurance is "paramount".

At this year's Your Money award ceremony, Sainsbury's Bank pet insurance was named the Best Pet Insurance Provider for the second consecutive year.

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