We all love our pets ? they provide us with company, entertainment, loyalty and love. Indeed some would argue that they give us more affection than our 'other half'! So it's a bit of a mystery as to why so many of us take a chance and don't protect our pet and ourselves against eventualities such as our pet being sick or having an accident. And what would happen if we had to cancel our holiday because they were ill? Or if we ourselves had to go to hospital?

Before getting a pet people always weigh up the financial implications in terms of 'sustaining' the animal ? how much it will cost to feed, cost of vaccinations and toys, but it is seldom acknowledged that pets get into accidents and contract diseases, which unfortunately can cost quite a lot of money in vets bills. A rabbit with dental problems can cost over ?200 to treat, while a dog with a skin condition can cost over ?500. When you add up the cost of anaesthetic, x-rays, surgery, medication, hospitalisation and bandages for a dog with a broken leg, you could come to a grand total of ?1000!

While we love and will do the best for our pets, there is no doubt that many of us would feel the pinch if we had to pay out an unexpected ?1000! There is no pet NHS, so bills for their treatment come out of your pocket every time, unless of course you have pet insurance. Pet insurance is something that you hope you will never need but it takes away this stress, and if you do need it, it will definitely feel like one of the best purchases you ever made.

Each policy plan has different levels of coverage but most will provide cover for the following:

* Veterinary Fees ? for illness and injury, including hospitalisation and referral;

* Death Benefit ? nothing can replace a loved pet, but the purchase price of the pet will be refunded if death occurs through illness or injury;

* Holiday Cancellation ? if your pet has life saving treatment or goes missing up to 7 days before your holiday commences;

* Boarding Fees ? if you are hospitalised for 4 days or more;

* Theft/Straying ? purchase price of your pet will be refunded;

* Advertising/Reward ? if your pet goes missing, cover is provided for local advertising and a reward;

* Third Party Liability ? if your pet causes damage or injury and you are legally liable.

It is best to research different pet insurers as you can then select the plan most suitable for both you and your pet's needs. There are exclusions which you should check for such as: flea control, neutering, and the cost of treatment for pre-existing conditions. There are also some types of dogs which cannot get insurance, such as guard dogs, racing dogs, working dogs or dogs registered under the Dangerous Dogs Act. Dogs can be insured after their eighth week of age but it is good to be aware that many insurance companies will only start to insure dogs before their 8th birthday ? it is difficult to get coverage after middle age.

The internet is easiest and quickest way to shop for pet insurance, and can reduce your premium!