Dogs best avoid sticks and ponds

Analysis of Sainsbury's Pet Insurance claims data indicates that our four legged friends' favourite pastime could be fraught with danger. The Bank is warning dog owners of the risk of letting their pets play in ponds and chase sticks. These activities not only carry a health warning, but worryingly, can even be life-threatening.

It is estimated that every year, insurers settle some 25,800 pet insurance claims, worth around £4.92 million, linked to lacerations, and a number of these will be caused by chasing and catching sticks. This can cause scratches or cuts to the skin or damage the lining of the mouth, which can lead to serious illnesses such as septicaemia, due to the foreign bacteria carried on sticks.

In addition to this, dogs playing in ponds can be exposed to poisonous algae which can lead to vomiting and diarrhoea. Sainsbury's Finance estimates that insurers pay out £9.30 million in claims settlements linked to pets vomiting and suffering from diarrhoea, some of which is undoubtedly linked to being exposed to bacteria, for example from drinking pond water.

Lucy Hunter, Sainsbury's Pet Insurance Manager said: "Rover may well think ‘what's the world coming to, is nothing safe these days'?! And of course he'd be right, dogs do need to be able to run around, but simple steps can be taken to reduce the chances of them being injured or picking up an illness. For example, keep them away from pond water and use a rubber stick or toy as opposed to a stick when playing "catch".

"Also, make sure you have adequate pet insurance so that unforeseen ailments and resulting veterinary care should be covered. A simple bout of diarrhoea resulting in a trip to the vet and prescribed medicine could cost you as much as £240."

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.