Demand for "handbag dogs" rockets

Sainsbury's Finance believes that the publicity around celebrities such as Paris Hilton, Britney Spears, Jessica Simpson and Geri Halliwell and their small pedigree pets has fuelled demand for ‘handbag dogs'.

Indeed, between 2006 and 2008, the number of these animals insured by Sainsbury's Pet Insurance has increased by 41.3%. This includes a 417% increase in the number of Chihuahuas it now insures and a 248% increase in the number of West Highland White Terriers.

However, Sainsbury's warns against choosing a pet on the basis of fashion or trends and says that carrying a pet in a handbag could actually become distressing for the animal.

Neal Devine, Pet Insurance Manager for Sainsbury's said: "A pet should never be seen as an accessory and people should not be guided by fashion trends when purchasing a pet. It's important that you understand the physical and mental needs of a particular breed, such as how much exercise it needs, when you purchase it, and that your lifestyle enables you to accommodate this."

Of the 10 most popular small pedigree dogs insured by Sainsbury's Pet Insurance around 23.7% are Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, the highest for any small dog breed. This is followed by the West Highland White Terrier (11.3%) and the Yorkshire Terrier (11.22%).

Neal Devine said: "Generally speaking, the cost of looking after a pedigree animal is more expensive than for a cross breed. Indeed, the most frequent claim for a small pedigree dog is for cardiac disease, which can run into thousands of pounds."

Good quality pet insurance does not need to be expensive, good cover at a competitive price can be found by shopping around. Sainsbury's Pet Insurance is designed to offer some of the widest range of benefits available at a competitive price. For further information, visit sainsburys.co.uk