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Love me, love my dog this Valentine’s Day

12th February 2010 Print

Almost two thirds (63%) of cat and dog owners would cancel a date if their pet was ill, according to a new survey by M&S Pet Insurance. So if your date gets cancelled on Valentine's Day, it may not be about cold feet, but more a case of a doting animal lover. 

The survey found that if it came down to "it's me or the pet", 42% of people would always choose their cat or dog over their partner.

Married vs. Never married

Only 11% of people who have never been married said they would definitely give up their cat or dog if they had a partner who didn't like them

Just over a fifth (21%) of married adults, or those in a civil partnership, would always put their relationship before their cat or dog

12% of co-habiting adults said they would definetely say ‘goodbye' to their cat or dog forever for the sake of their relationship.

Men vs. Women

Over half (52%) of women would always choose their pet over their partner

Just over a quarter (26%) of men would always choose their relationship over their cat or dog

David Wells, M&S Head of Insurance, said: ‘These findings are not surprising as Britain is well-known as a pet-loving nation.  Pet-owners often have a close bond with their animals as they are often a predictable presence in our ever changing lives; providing unconditional love, emotional support and companionship. Therefore, when a new partner comes along it is not surprising that they need to love the pet as much as the person!'

M&S Pet Insurance policyholders know that if their cat or dog does fall ill before a date this weekend, they have access to a 24-hour advice line.

VetfoneTM nurses provide concerned animal lovers with immediate advice on a pet's condition and can decide whether emergency medical treatment is required.

M&S Pet Insurance - Key Features

Cover from 8 weeks with no upper age limit

M&S Premier Insurance offers up to £7,000 a year in vets' fees for illness and injury

No 12 month time limit on treatment

You can claim up to your annual limit each year, for as long as your policy is in force

Premier and Standard cover available

M&S Pet Insurance Premier Cover has been Five-Star Rated for features and benefits by Defaqto, an independent research company

M&S Pet Insurance Premier Cover even covers behavioural disorders and complementary treatments

15% new business discount when you apply online (available to new customers only)

Unlimited telephone access to a Vet Nurse 24/7 with Vetfone.

Customers receive a 5% discount from Bestpet pharmacy.

5% multi pet discount (for each additional pet that you insure when you apply over the phone)

M&S Cardholders will earn 250 M&S points, when they take out a new policy