South East has most high maintenance pets

The South East is the most expensive part of the country for pet owners who may have to take their animals to the vet, according to Saga Pet Insurance. The average vet bill in the South East is £98.64 (30%) more expensive than in the cheapest region, Wales.

Whatever the reason your pet goes to the vet, many owners could be unprepared for the medical expenses. According to Saga, the average bill, per condition, is £258.16 for a cat and £320.92 for a dog, a much higher fee than most pet owners may expect to pay for their little companions’ injuries and ailments.

Regionally, the South East (£347.89) is the most expensive area to be a dog owner and the North West for a cat owner (£321.36). In contrast Wales (£227.24) has the cheapest vet fees for a dog and the South West (£209.14) for a cat.

With ever more sophisticated technology and procedures being used to treat our pets, the costs have considerably increased, meaning owners are sometimes having to dig deep to come to their pet’s rescue. Owners can expect to pay up to £4,000 if their pet fractures a bone and up to £10,000* over several years if their pet has a more complicated condition like a tumour or spinal disorder. Therefore, where you live could dramatically affect the amount you pay.

Andrew Goodsell, Chief Executive, Saga Group Ltd, said: “Every pet owner knows how important it is that their pet receives medical treatment if and when they need it. Without appropriate pet insurance in place, owners could be faced with the nightmare prospect of having to withhold care because it’s simply too expensive.”

Saga Pet Insurance have also put together a free booklet which focuses on aspects of keeping your cat or dog in good health, providing information on preventing illness and the requirements of food, exercise and healthcare. For a free copy or more information on Saga Pet Insurance please call 0800 056 5096 or visit saga.co.uk/pet.