With pet owners across the UK facing increasing costs, and animal shelters working hard to rehome abandoned pets, new research today reveals over a third (35%) of UK adults said they would be put off from adopting a rescue dog or cat due to worries over potential high medical costs.
The research from Co-op Insurance comes at a time when some charities are still seeing record numbers admitted, with Dog’s Trust, the UK-based dog charity, reporting to have received over 45,000 enquiries last year alone from owners regarding possibly having to relinquish their beloved pet.
Furthermore, with costs playing such a pivotal role for consumers when deciding to rehome an animal, the research also shows that over 1 in 10 (11%) would be reluctant to adopt a dog or cat due to the belief they would not be able to get pet insurance for a rescue.
And with almost two fifths (38%) of those that have rescued a dog or cat admitting they currently don’t have pet insurance, owners risk being financially out of pocket, as the latest data from Co-op Insurance shows the average treatment cost for claims to be over £690, with some dog claims topping over £1200, and cats even higher at over £1300.
However, for those that may be concerned about the medical history of a rescue pet, FirstVet, a 24/7 independent digital veterinary clinic partnering with the member-owned Co-op Insurance, advise that there are processes in place.
“Most animals have a vet check before being adopted. So, if they have had a clean bill of health, then adopting shouldn’t be of concern.” says FirstVet Lead Vet, Emma Bower.
“Adopting from a reputable rescue charity will ensure that the pet has had a full health check both on arrival at the shelter and prior to going to their new home, while most homes will ensure that the pet is fully vaccinated, and that flea and worming treatment is up to date.
“Any potential health or behaviour concerns relating to the animal will be discussed prior to adoption, meaning owners have full visibility to make an informed decision.”
And with the research revealing that over half (54%) of those that do not have pet insurance for their rescue dog or cat believing it would be too expensive, Co-op Insurance offers an introductory discount on policies for those insuring a pet rehomed from a recognised animal charity or rescue centre, with a 7.5% discount for Co-op member owners and a 2.5% discount for non-Co-op member owners, to help make adoption more affordable.
Andrew Nevitt, Head of Co-op Pet Insurance, said: “With animal shelters across the UK continuing to see an influx of abandoned pets, it’s heartening that our research shows over a quarter of dog and cat owners had adopted their pet from a rescue centre or animal charity.
“And whilst having pet insurance can provide peace of mind for people should their pet be faced with a difficult medical situation, the research also tells us that there are some misconceptions surrounding insuring a rescue pet.
“With our partner, FirstVet, we want to reassure people who may otherwise be keen to adopt a rescue but have concerns over being able to get insurance cover for them. Also, in offering a discount on first-time policies to our member owners and customers that have adopted pets, we hope it can go some way in helping them find their forever home.”
For more information about how Co-op pet insurance, visit: www.coop.co.uk/insurance/pet-insurance
