Pet insurance could be the best present you buy this Christmas

Nearly a third of people (31%) would consider giving a pet as a Christmas present, according to research commissioned by the ABI. Yet worryingly, many pet owners may not realise how expensive vets' bills can be should their pet have an accident or become ill. Responsible pet ownership means looking after your animals in every way, and that includes having insurance in place. Anyone giving or receiving a pet this Christmas should look at taking out pet insurance in case the worst happens and their pet need veterinary care.

Pet insurance gives pet owners the peace of mind that as well as being able to take advantage of expensive veterinary treatments that are constantly advancing, they should also be able to enjoy having healthy pets with longer lives.

Nick Starling, Director of General Insurance and Health at the ABI said: "Owning a pet can be very rewarding. Pets often become part of the family. However, if they need veterinary treatment, bills can run into hundreds or even thousands of pounds. Having pet insurance in place means that pet owners can have the confidence that their pets will get the best treatment without having to find money to cover large bills. This is even more important during hard economic times when household finances are already stretched."