19 August 2008

More pets are covered by medical insurance in the UK than people, according to recent research.

A survey by Tesco has revealed that up to 23 per cent of pets were protected by medical coverage last year but this figure stood at just 12.2 per cent for people.

The Society of Practicing Veterinary Surgeons stated that the figures reflect the nation's view that four-legged family members are just as important as the human ones.

Ewan McNeil, former president of the society, said: "We are a nation of animal lovers, and many of us regard our pet as part of the family.

"I'm not surprised that pet insurance is becoming so popular - people will do everything they can to ensure the best for their pets."

Mr McNeil added that having pet insurance puts owners at an advantage because it allows them to have more choice regarding the medical procedures their animals can have.

Research from Datamonitor has shown that households earning £50,000 were the most likely to have pet insurance policies for their animals.