Pet-loving Brits are prepared to leave money in their will to ensure their animal is cared for, but many still fail to take out adequate pet insurance, reveals research.
A pet insurance company Saga has found that one in five pet owners are intending to leave money to their dog or cat in the event of their death and almost half of owners treat their pet as one of their own children.
Yet, according to the insurance company, less that half these pet owners have any insurance cover in the event of an accident or emergency.
Andrew Goodsell from the insurance company commented that with cats and dogs being valued members of the family, it is essential to consider taking out insurance to cover expensive vet bills in case of illness or accidents.
“We know that, for many, the company of a beloved cat or dog can really make a difference to their quality of life,” he commented.
Further investigations into the UK’s love of pets also highlighted that at least two in five pet owners would rather spend time with their cat or dog than another human being. This was a particularly prevalent trait among the over 50s.
Pets also get included in family celebrations such as birthdays and at Christmas, with 64 per cent of dogs receiving a gift every year and 45 per cent of cats getting treated to presents.