With average vet fees reaching £715*, pet owners could end up with a hefty bill if their pet falls ill or is injured. However, having adequate insurance cover in place can give pet owners peace of mind that their animal will receive medical assistance and the bill will be settled without making a further hole in their pocket.
Chris Price, Head of Direct Line Pet Insurance, comments: "Pet owners should remember to safeguard themselves against hefty vet bills by taking out insurance for their pets. Sadly many dogs and cats have to be put down every year because owners are cutting back on insurance and then cannot afford to cover the costly vet bills associated with an accident or illness."
To help with the cost of owning a pet, Direct Line is offering 12 months pet insurance for the price of 10**, until 20 May 2009. New customers can take advantage of this offer by quoting "Pet 12 for 10" over the phone or by visiting www.directline.com.
Direct Line's pet insurance policies include the following:
* Cover per condition for vet fees up to a maximum of £6,000 under the Advanced policy, and £4,000 for a total of 12 months under the Essential policy.
* Up to £2m third party liability cover (applies to dogs only.)
* Pet bereavement counselling and legal help lines.
Optional additional cover includes:
* Up to £1,000 for advertising and up to £200 reward if your pet is stolen or strays.
* Cover for death from accidental injury.
* Up to £1,000 boarding fees if you have to stay in hospital.
* Holliday cancellation cover of up to £5,000 if you have to cancel or cut short a trip because your pet goes missing or needs unexpected medical treatment.
