Night-time danger for dogs without pet insurance

Posted : 27-10-2005

Pet owners are advised to be "extra vigilant and adequately insured" when walking their pets in the evening this winter.

The likelihood of dogs causing a serious accident increases in winter, as owners tend to walk them in the dark when they can be invisible to motorists.

A recent change to the law means that owners of uninsured dogs are personally liable for damages claims if their pet causes accident or injury, irrespective of whether they have been negligent or not.

Pet insurer Tesco warns it has seen an increase of 25 per cent in the volume of personal injury claims over the past year, with claims now up to eight times higher than those for vet fees.

The company's highest claim was for £40,000, caused by a dog running out into the road and colliding with a motorcyclist.

Allan Burns, head of Tesco Pet Insurance, said: "Many dog owners still seem unaware that this change to the law means they could find themselves facing massive costs from third party claims."

He added: "All dog owners should consider pet insurance as even well trained dogs can be unpredictable in their behaviour. Nowadays, pet insurance need not be expensive, it's all about shopping around for the right type of cover at the right price."


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