Sainsbury’s Pet Insurance sees rising trend in handbag dogs

As demand for small pedigree dogs, made all the more popular by celebrities such as Paris Hilton, Kate Beckinsale, Alexandra Burke and Geri Halliwell, increases, Sainsbury's Pet Insurance warns of the importance of having adequate insurance for these pets to cover the cost of veterinary bills.

The number of these dogs insured by Sainsbury’s Pet Insurance in 2009 was 13% higher than in 2008 and significantly, 15.5% of those insured made claims on their policies during 2009.

The most popular "handbag" size pedigree breeds insured by Sainsbury’s Pet Insurance is the King Charles Spaniel, followed by the West Highland White Terrier and then the Jack Russell Terrier. 

More than a quarter (28.4%) of the Pugs insured made a claim in 2009, making this the breed with the highest number of claims. The second highest was the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, where 17.6% of policy holders had to make a claim.

Lucy Hunter, Sainsbury’s Pet Insurance Manager, said: “A number of high profile celebrities have been regularly pictured in the media with their "handbag" size dogs, and we believe this has fuelled demand for these animals. 

“Given the rising cost of veterinary treatment, it is now more important to have pet insurance than ever before.  This is especially true for pedigree dogs, which can suffer from hereditary medical conditions that can require veterinary treatment. For example, King Charles Spaniels can be prone to heart and eye problems, and West Highland Terriers can suffer from skin problems and deafness."  

Sainsbury's shoppers are rewarded with double Nectar points on their shopping in store, online and in petrol filling stations for two years when taking out Sainsbury’s Pet Insurance. Customers who spend £50 a week with Sainsbury’s and have Sainsbury’s Pet Insurance as well as a Nectar card would receive £52 worth of Nectar points a year.

Quality pet insurance does not need to be expensive, good cover at a competitive price can be found by shopping around for the best deal, and it is essential to compare policies on a like-for-like basis – comparing on price alone could be disastrous. Sainsbury’s Pet Insurance offers an extensive range of benefits at a competitive price.  For further information, visit sainsburysfinance.co.uk.