Pet loving nation - 42% would choose dog or cat over partner

The extent of the nation's love for our furry friends is undoubted. A survey by M&S Pet Insurance has 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.

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 almost two-thirds (63%) of cat and dog owners would cancel a date if their pet was ill.

Yet despite the nation's love for their dogs and cats, take-up of pet insurance is still relatively low. Only 42% of dog owners and 26% of cat owners have insurance for their pet.

New customers can save 15% when buying M&S Pet Insurance online and a further 10% when purchased before 28 February.

Andrew Ferguson, M&S Head of Insurance, said: ‘Our survey shows that Britain is truly as a pet-loving nation. It is surprising, therefore, that ownership of pet insurance remains relatively low. Taking out insurance can avoid the need for large payments when your pet needs treaent.

‘Pet owners should make sure the policy they choose offers the appropriate level of cover. M&S Premier Pet Insurance offers up to £7,000 a year in vets' fees for illness and injury.'

M&S Pet Insurance not only provides cover if your dog or cat needs treaent. There are a range of other benefits, including access to a 24-hours advice line. Vetfone nurses provide concerned animal lovers with immediate advice on a pet's condition and can decide whether emergency medical treaent is required.'

M&S Money was named ‘Best Pet Insurance Provider' at the 2011 Consumer Moneyfacts Awards.

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 treaent

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 treaents

Unlimited telephone access to a vet nurse 24/7 with vetfone

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.