Why should you insure your pet?

Why should you insure your pet?

Our pets are a big part of our families, there through the good… and the bad. They make us laugh getting themselves in various pickles – but they always keep us smiling! 

Whether you are picking up a new playful pooch or adopting a curious cat, it’s crucial that you take out a pet insurance policy to protect your four-legged friends should anything go wrong.

Is a Pet Insurance Policy Worth It?

When you welcome an animal into your home, they become your responsibility. Not only do you need to shower them with love and affection, but you also need to be prepared for those unexpected, pricey healthcare bills and vet fees (the not so fun part)!

We understand that it can be tempting to try and reduce your monthly spending and forgo insurance for your pets, but the saving made on a potential vet visit eight months down the line, for example, with a policy as opposed to one big cost might be beneficial in the long run. 

Protect your wonderfully quirky pets with a simple, fuss-free policy from us. Straightforward, and with all the quality you’d expect, with Pets in a Pickle, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your furry friends are covered.

 You can view our simple and easy to understand policy options online today.

What Veterinary Bills Does Pet Insurance Cover?

No matter how well we look out for our cats and dogs, they still get themselves into little pickles. Whether they managed to sneak into the snack cupboard and nibble on something they shouldn’t have, or simply caught a virus, vomiting and diarrhoea, the unexpected can happen at a moment’s notice.

Sometimes our mischievous pets can get into accidents, from minor injuries such as a torn nail or a broken bone, to more serious cases such as being hit by a car. Cats and dogs can also develop chronic illnesses such as diabetes or cancer. This means that they will require medication and regular visits to the vets for the rest of their lives.

Each of these unexpected injuries can cost thousands of pounds in vet bills, but with cover from Pets in a Pickle you can rest easy, knowing that you can afford to provide them with surgery or treatment, offering them the care and attention they really need.

Cover The Costs If Your Pet Goes Missing!

The thought of your cat or dog going missing is hard to process, however it can and does happen. 

Did you know that your pet insurance policy can cover you for advertising and reward costs in case your furry friend disappears? Depending on the level of cover, your pets really can be protected from an incredible range of circumstances, so insuring your animals really offers much more than just covering unexpected vet bills.

Start Your Pet Insurance Quote Today!

If you have a cat or dog that you would like to protect, find out why Pets In A Pickle are the purrfect pet insurance provider.

With simple and easy to understand policy options, you’ll be able to focus on enjoying time with your pet, whilst we handle the serious stuff. Start your quote now.

If you would like to find out more about any pet insurance policy, pick up the dog and bone! 

Call now on 0800 044 1111.

Contact Pets in a Pickle

For more pet information and facts, check out the other news on Pets in a Pickle. To find out more about the range of policies, get in touch with the team today. Call them now on 0800 044 1111, or contact the team online here.

Follow Pets in a Pickle on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Our top tips to make sure you and your pet have a great 2023!

Our top tips to make sure you and your pet have a great 2023!

With 2023 just around the corner it’s that time of year when we all start choosing our new year resolutions…but has your four-legged friend decided theirs? 

We’ve compiled our top tips to make sure you and your pet can get the new year off to the best start and stay fit and healthy throughout 2023.

1. Keeping Active

 

It’s important to keep our pets fit and active all year round. For dogs this means regular walks and exercise and for cats that means letting them roam and giving them plenty of stimulating toys. 

Keeping your pet’s active can help prevent disease, build muscle, and keep their bones strong.  

A great way of tracking how active your pets are is by using a Tractive GPS wellness device. Simply attach the device to your dog/ cat’s collar and get information on their location, their activity levels and even their sleep at your fingertips, on the app.

 

2. Healthy Treats

A lot of pet treats are full of ‘nasties’, so finding good quality treats can help improve your dog’s health. It’s important to make sure that when giving your pets treats they include healthy ingredients and vitamins. We recommend Sazzy Treats who specialise in natural dog treats and chews with higher nutritional value and without any chemicals or preservatives.

All Pets in a Pickle policy holders get access to our Pickle Perks where there are loads of exclusive, pet-friendly offers. Sazzy Treats is currently offering our policy holders 15% off treats, toys and more. So, get a quote, choose a policy and get access to loads of great discounts today!

3. pet Insurance

No matter how well you take care of your four- legged friends, dogs and cats can get sick just like us and it’s hard to anticipate just how much veterinary treatment can cost. That’s why it’s important to insure your pet to make sure they’re covered all year round, so you can enjoy all the best parts of being a pet parent, knowing that they’re covered. 

Our simple and easy-to-understand policy options make it easy to find the right cover for your pet so get a free quote now. 

Read our blog post about why insuring your pet is so important. 

4. Speak to a vet if you're worried about anything

 

Our pets can get themselves into lots of different pickles, even if you think it’s something minor, it’s often worth checking with a vet just so you can have peace of mind. 

All Pets in a Pickle policy holders get unlimited access to video consultations with experienced, locally registered vets, through FirstVet. So, you can reach a vet from the comfort of your home, whenever your pet is unwell, without it affecting your policy. 

They can help with issues from coughing and sneezing to minor injuries and accidents.

Pets in a Pickle understands how important your pets are, they are part of the family, so should be treated like one, all year round. So get a quote now so you can relax, knowing they’re covered throughout 2023. 

Contact Pets in a Pickle

For more pet information and facts, check out the other news on Pets in a Pickle. To find out more about the range of policies, get in touch with the team today. Call them now on 0800 044 1111, or contact the team online here.

Follow Pets in a Pickle on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Keeping Your Pets Healthy This Christmas – Food Guide

Keeping your pets healthy this Christmas - Food Guide

Christmas is the time to have fun, spend quality time with our families and eat our weight in turkey dinner! And since our pets are a big part of our family, they will be wanting to join in on the festive fun too. 

However, the holiday season can present a lot of dangers to our furry friends, especially when it comes to food. So, to make sure your pet stays healthy this Christmas, we have created a guide on what is safe for your fur-baby to eat. 

Although there are lots of things that we are advised not to feed our pets, we have narrowed down the main things at Christmas they can and can’t eat. 

What our pets can’t eat?

Chocolate – The chemical theobromine, which in a way is like caffeine, is found in chocolate and is toxic to dogs. Even small amounts can cause agitation, hyperexcitability, tremors, convulsions and problems with the heart. The darker the chocolate, the more potent levels of theobromine become – with baker’s chocolate one of the most dangerous.

Nutmeg – Nutmeg is also a very toxic food for dogs, containing a toxin called myristicin which is extremely poisonous.

Grapes and raisins – Grapes and their dried products (currants, sultanas and raisins) are toxic to dogs. Ingestion of even a small quantity can cause severe kidney failure. Don’t forget this will include food items that contain dried fruits such as Christmas pudding and mince pies. Be aware that chocolate-coated raisins run the additional risk of chocolate toxicity.

Macadamia nuts – Macadamia nuts can cause lethargy, increased body temperature, tremor, lameness and stiffness in dogs.

Onions and garlic – Onions, garlic, leeks, shallots and chives all belong to the Allium species of plants and can cause toxicity, whether uncooked or cooked. Initially there can be vomiting and diarrhoea, but the main effect is damage to red blood cells, resulting in anaemia. This may not be apparent for several days after ingestion.

Turkey skin, pork crackling, sausages and fatty meats – Unfortunately, these dog foods can be able to cause inflammation of the pancreas because of their high-fat content.

Alcohol – Dogs can exhibit severe central nervous system symptoms, hypothermia, vomiting, coma, and diarrhea from consuming alcohol or absorbing alcohol through their skin. As even small amounts of alcohol can trigger life threatening levels of toxicity, including a dangerous condition called metabolic acidosis.

 

What your pet can eat?

 Turkey meat (no skin or bones), Salmon (fillets or cooked in spring water are preferable to smoked salmon) and Lamb meat (no bones). 

 Scrambled egg – Eggs are a great source of protein, vitamins and minerals and are good for our pet’s health.

Potatoes – A tasty festive treat but make sure you only feed your pet plain mashed or boiled potatoes with nothing else added (e.g. salt, butter). Again, moderation is important. Potatoes, no matter how they are prepared or cooked are very starchy, which pets can struggle to digest.

Vegetables – Take it easy with veggies but you can feed your pet some carrot, parsnip, green beans, courgette, Brussel sprouts, broccoli florets (very small amount only), peas, spinach, cauliflower etc… 

Most green or mixed veg is fine for pets. If you do a mashed carrot and swede with your Christmas dinner your pet is sure to love that but don’t add butter or seasoning to their portion. 

Avoid corn on the cob and bulb vegetables such as onions and leeks.

We hope this helps you keep your fur-babies safe around all the festive food this year. We have loads more tips for keeping your pet safe – read the rest of our pet tips! 

Why not take out a free quote and find out how we can keep your furry friends safe all year round! ❤️ 

Contact Pets in a Pickle

For more pet information and facts, check out the other news on Pets in a Pickle. To find out more about the range of policies, get in touch with the team today. Call them now on 0800 044 1111, or contact the team online here.

Follow Pets in a Pickle on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Additional Sources:

* Information sourced from https://www.dfordog.co.uk/blog/dog-christmas-food-safe-avoid.html

https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/health/dogs-at-christmas 

Tips For Looking After Your Pets This Christmas

Tips For looking after your Pets This christmas

Now that it’s officially winter, we’re well and truly embracing the festive season at Pets in a Pickle HQ. The Christmas tree is up, the presents are being purr-chased and the Christmas music is on max volume! 

Christmas is all about spending time with those you love, and that includes your furry friends. We want you and your pets to enjoy the good times together – happy and healthy! 

Here are some of our tips for looking after your pets at Christmas time.

Keep Aware Of Hidden Dangers ⚠️

Be aware of hidden dangers for your pets around Christmas. Lilies are poisonous for cats so if you get bought flowers for Christmas, check that bouquet!

Chocolate should also be kept away from dogs and cats as it is toxic if eaten.

Finally, watch your tinsel carefully; it will likely get chewed by your cats and as we know, anything that’s eaten will come out the other end…  

Cosy Sleeping Spot ☁️

Be aware of hidden dangers for your pets around Christmas. Lilies are poisonous for cats so if you get bought flowers for Christmas, check that bouquet!

Chocolate should also be kept away from dogs and cats as it is toxic if eaten.

Finally, watch your tinsel carefully; it will likely get chewed by your cats and as we know, anything that’s eaten will come out the other end…  

Litter Tray Inside For Cats 🐱

Give an option for cats to use the toilet inside, even if they normally go outside. It may be too cold for them, especially if there’s snow on the ground.

Make sure to check catflaps aren’t blocked by snow, so your cat can get out – and back in – freely if they choose to. 

Jackets 🧥

Dogs with short coats like Greyhounds, Dobermans or Chihuahuas struggle to keep warm in the cold weather. 

Get them a cute winter doggy jacket to help keep them warm on walks! 

Wash Dog Paws After Walks 🐾

Trim the hair around your dog’s paws to protect them from lumps of ice (‘ice balls’) forming between the pads and toes of the feet. Salt and grit can also irritate their paws, so make sure you wash your dog’s paws after winter walks. 

Human Food 🍽

It’s not just people who are tempted by Christmas food! Human food can be harmful to your cat or dog’s tummy, so although those pleading eyes might tell you otherwise, try not to feed your pet the remains of your Christmas dinner. 

Don’t Leave Pets Unattended Outside 👀

In the cold and wet weather, it’s important to make sure your cats and dogs can get back inside freely if they’ve been out. If they’re in the garden and you don’t have a cat flap or doggy door, make sure you are always aware of when they want to come in and warm up. Cold pets are susceptible to hypothermia, so make sure this isn’t a risk by not leaving them outside unattended. 

Make sure They're chipped 📍

If left alone outside, cats or dogs are likely to wander off in search of a warm place. Keep them microchipped so they can be traced back to you. 

 

Give Them Lots Of Love… And Space ❤️

Pets are loads of fun to have around at Christmas and often get involved with family festivities. 

Whilst it can be fun to play with your cat or dog, remember that new visitors, flashing lights, tinsel and decorations can be a tiring sensory experience for them to endure. 

Allow them to balance this out with a nap or a solitary snooze… if they’re asleep, try not to wake them and give them space for some alone time if they need it.

They’ll come and see you when they’re ready! 

Hopefully you’ve enjoyed our top tips for safe and happy pets at Christmas. Let the festivities begin! 

For more news, blogs and top tips, check out the Pets in a Pickle pet tips page. 

Want extra security this winter? Why not take out a policy with us and we’ll look after their health so you can focus on the fun stuff. 

Contact Pets in a Pickle

For more pet information and facts, check out the other news on Pets in a Pickle. To find out more about the range of policies, get in touch with the team today. Call them now on 0800 044 1111, or contact the team online here.

Follow Pets in a Pickle on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Additional Sources:

* Information sourced from https://www.dfordog.co.uk/blog/dog-christmas-food-safe-avoid.html

https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/health/dogs-at-christmas 

How to keep your pet safe in the summer heat

How to keep your pet safe in the summer heat

Summer is here! And the heatwave seems to have arrived early, so it is important to learn how to keep your pet safe in the summer heat. Here are some top tips for keeping your pets safe through heatwaves and sunny days.

1) Make Sure They Have Plenty Of Water

Make sure to keep your pet’s water bowl is full of fresh, clean and cool water. If you take your pet out, bring plenty of water with you wherever you go, even if you don’t think you’ll be out for too long. If you do go out, take a large water bottle and small bowl with you so that your pup can take a sip whenever they need to. Splashing water on their paws can also help clean their sweat glands and cool them down.

2) Don’t Leave Them Outside For Too Long

Hot pavements and roads can seriously affect your cat or dog, so don’t expose them to the heat for too long. If you’re taking your dog on a walk, make sure to do it in the early morning or late evening, or even wait for a cooler day.  Stick to grassy areas when you’re out and make sure there are shady areas to cool down for a while.

3) Never Keep A Pet In A Hot Car

The number one rule when summer arrives is to never leave your pet in a hot car! It may seem obvious, but the temperature inside your vehicle can get much warmer than it is outside, and without a proper airflow it gets stuffy and your cat or dog will find it difficult to cope. 

According to research done by PETA, even when a car isn’t in direct sunlight, a dog can succumb to heatstroke within minutes. If you’re travelling with a dog or cat in the car, ensure it is well ventilated.

4) Keep an eye on High Risk Breeds

Dogs and cats with flat faces such as Bulldogs, Pugs, Boston Terriers, British Shorthairs and Persians are more likely to suffer as they are unable to pant as effectively as other cats and dogs.

Other dogs and cats with thick, long fur like Huskys, Sheepdogs and long-haired cats will also struggle with the heat more due to their long  coats. Help them out by brushing out any shedding fur, or take them to the groomers who can remove winter coats and cut down long fur so your pet is cooler.

5) Look out for Signs of Heatstroke

When a dog or cat does end up developing heatstroke it can cause very serious damage and, in some cases, it can be fatal. That is why it is important to familiarise yourself with the symptoms. If your four-legged friend begins to show any signs of the below symptoms or even collapses, ensure you cool them down and take them to a vet as soon as possible.

Signs of Heatstroke in Dogs:

  • Dribbling
  • Extreme panting
  • Collapse
  • Excessive thirst
  • Increased heartbeat
  • Dark-coloured gums

Signs of Heatstroke in Cats:

  • Drooling, salivating.
  • Agitation, restlessness (cats may pace)
  • Bright red tongue.
  • Very red or pale gums.
  • Increased heart rate.
  • Panting and breathing distress.

How Can Pets In A Pickle Help?

By insuring your cat or dog with Pets in a Pickle, you can relax knowing that you’re protected should something happen to your pet this summer. Vet bills can be expensive and with many people going on holiday with their pets, it is important to ensure that you and your pet are covered in case something should happen.

Take a look at our simple and easy to understand policies here.

Contact Pets in a Pickle

For more pet information and facts, check out the other news on Pets in a Pickle. To find out more about the range of policies, get in touch with the team today. Call them now on 0800 044 1111, or contact the team online here.

Follow Pets in a Pickle on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Heatstroke – Summer Safety Tips For Dogs

Heatstroke - Summer safety tips for Dogs

As weather temperatures are rising, the risk of heatstroke in dogs and other animals increases as well. Dogs rely on heat being released through only their paw pads, noses and through panting; whereas humans sweat to relieve ourselves of heat. So, to help you keep your dog cool this summer, we have put together a list of summer safety tips  so your furry friend doesn’t develop heatstroke.

When a dog does end up developing heatstroke it can cause very serious damage and, in some cases, it can be fatal. That is why it is important to familiarise yourself with the symptoms, which include:

  • Dribbling
  • Extreme panting
  • Collapse
  • Excessive thirst
  • Increased heartbeat
  • Dark-coloured gums

If you do suspect your dog may have developed heatstroke the best thing to do is to move them into a draughty area, wet their fur with cool water and contact your vet. However, preventing the heatstroke in the first place should always be your top priority, and here are a few things you can do.

1) Stay Hydrated!

Make sure your dog always has access to fresh, clean water. Water bowls must be filled to the brim and it is advisable to take a bottle of water and a bowl with you when going for a walk.

2) Go For A Walk At A Sensible Time

If you decide to take your dog for a walk, it is important to walk them during the cooler hours of the day – either in the morning or the evening. Taking your dog for a walk during the day also increases the risk of them burning their paws on the hot pavement, a rule to keep in mind is, ‘If it is too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their feet.’

3) Cool Places To Lie Down

It isn’t unusual for your dog to be attracted to cool surfaces when they’re feeling hot. However, if you don’t have cool tile or stone floors for your dog to lie on another great idea is to place blanket wrapped ice packs into their bed with a fan on close by.

4) Paddling Pool & Sprinklers

Humans love to cool off in the summer by relaxing in cool paddling pools and this is another great way to keep your dog cool in summer heat. Sprinklers and garden hoses are a great way to keep your more active dogs cool and occupied.

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5) Ice Treats And Cool Toys

Placing some of your dog’s toys into the freezer is a great way to keep your pooch stimulated and cool. Or you could even place some of your dog’s favourite treats into an ice cube tray to create ice cubes and lollies.

If you suspect your dog is suffering from heatstroke, it is important to contact your vet immediately. Or for more advice and summer safety tips click here.

Contact Pets in a Pickle

For more pet information and facts, check out the other news on Pets in a Pickle. To find out more about the range of policies, get in touch with the team today. Call them now on 0800 044 1111, or contact the team online here.

Follow Pets in a Pickle on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.