IN the first part of this article, we looked at ways to save money during this economic downturn on day-to-day pet expenses.

In this second part I’ll discuss ways that you can help protect yourself against unexpected veterinary bills.

Pet Insurance.

Unfortunately there is no NHS for pets and so any healthcare, whether routine prevention or illness, has to be borne out by the pet owner. Complicated illnesses or surgery such as orthopaedic fracture repairs can run into many thousands of pounds and for many pet owners paying for this is not a realistic option.

Just as with human healthcare, there is private health cover (or ‘Pet Insurance’) available, which can cost from as little as £6 per month for a basic policy. This health insurance does not cover routine costs such as feeding, vaccinations or worm/flea treatment, but instead is there to cover bills for sickness or accident.

There are many different policies available and unfortunately as pet insurance is governed by the Financial Services Authority, vets aren’t allowed to give specific advice on which policy may be best for you.

Do read the small print and ensure that the policy meets your requirements. In particular ensure that you opt for a minimum of £3,000 cover for cats and £5000 cover for dogs. Additionally ensure that your policy will continue to pay for the same condition year after year rather than place an exclusion clause after twelve months.

It has been shown that pets who have pet insurance cover are likely to recover from illnesses quicker as the owners are not influenced by financial constraints when deciding what level of treatment protocol, as recommended by their vet, is appropriate.

Please note that insurance cover has to be in place before the accident or illness occurs.

Cats Protection.

The Cat Protection is a registered charity set up solely for the welfare of cats. They have branches all over the country with a local branch in Worcester. For households on a low income The Cat Protection can offer financial assistance with the cost of neutering cats and kittens. Under exceptional circumstances they may be able to offer some help towards emergency treatment for injured cats.

Dogs Trust.

The Dogs Trust is a charitable organisation whose primary role is rehoming of unwanted strays. However, they do have a discretionary fund to help part pay emergency treatment for injured dogs.

Blue Cross.

The Blue Cross is an animal charity which provides subsidised veterinary treatment for sick or injured animals. They do have a little more discretion when offering financial assistance to pet owners on a low income.

PDSA Petaid Scheme.

The Peoples Dispensary for Sick Animals is a national charity that offer subsidised healthcare for pet owners on a low income. Owners in receipt of benefit and who fulfil strict criteria may be eligible to receive subsidised pet care at a local veterinary practice. Please note that eligibility may need to be established before veterinary services are offered.

RSPCA.

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is primarily a welfare charity dealing with the prevention of unnecessary suffering of animals. Within their remit there is scope for a contribution towards the cost of emergency treatment for stray animals or wildlife.

Contact details: Cats Protection Worcester co-ordinator, Lynn Glaze 01386 751925. Cats Protection neutering assistance only, 08702 099099. Dogs Trust – 02078 370006. Blue Cross, 01993 825533. RSPCA, 03001 234999.