Pets suffering since the economic downturn

Out of all the things that will have suffered thanks to the recession, pets may have been quite far down on most people's lists.

However, it seems that as people have cut back and trimmed their budget to cope with the economic downturn, many pet owners have decided to pack in their pet insurance, leaving their pooches and moggies in the lurch if they were to fall ill or be injured.

"Animals in the UK may be suffering as a result of the economic downturn", claimed an RSPCA spokesperson.

"People have been cutting back on pet insurance costs which is bad for both them and the animal - if the animal falls ill then it could cost hundreds of pounds in comparison to paying a smaller fee each month for pet insurance cover".

The RSPCA voiced concern that people are attempting to tighten their belts by reducing their pet insurance or getting rid of it altogether.

There has been an increase in the number of canines people have had to give away because they can no longer afford the medical treatment. This year saw people giving up their family pets all over the country as it wasn't financially sensible to keep them any longer.

The RSPCA acknowledged some individuals need to make cutbacks in their spending at the moment, but added "we would urge the public not to see insurance for their pets' health as a non-essential - by shopping around for the best cover you can find some deals on pet insurance that will ease the financial worry".

"If your pet is injured then you may have to spend hundreds of pounds on surgery and medication that you really could not afford - pet insurance gives you peace of mind for both your pets health and your financial situation."

Be Wiser Insurance, leading insurance experts, have offered advice to pet owners on how to get the most out of their policy. By reading the smallprint and taking out things that you don't need cover for you could save money.

"Some pet insurance policies offer money if your pet goes missing or is stolen - this money is intended to be used for buying missing posters and newspaper space. The odd insurer may offer money to replace a lost pet."