Pet insurance needed this Bonfire Night

Posted : 01-11-2005

Pet owners are being urged to take extra special care of their animals over the next few days as Bonfire Night approaches – the most traumatic time of year for many pets.

Sainsbury's Bank claims around 5,000 animals are treated for firework-related injuries each year, with annual vets' fees adding up to £1.6 million as pets are often left distressed and traumatised by the bright flashes and noise.

"Our research shows that during the course of a year, as many as 40 per cent of pet owners will see their cats and dogs suffer from behavioural problems such as depression, moodiness, fatigue and loss of appetite," said David Pickett, pet insurance manager at the bank.

Mr Pickett added that some vets have to issue sedatives to calm down anxious and scared pets over the firework period, adding to more costs for the owners of uninsured pets.

Pet owners are urged to keep their animals inside as soon as the light begins to fade outside, although are warned against too much cuddling and attention to comfort scared animals.

Some pets can see this as rewarding their fearful behaviour, making matters worse.

Experts suggest playing with pets to help distract them, as well as shopping around for cheap pet insurance to help cover the cost of any Bonfire Night accidents should anything go wrong, or treatment for its after-effects.


© Adfero Ltd

The views expressed within the article are entirely those of Adfero Ltd and are not those of BDML Connect Ltd