M&S Pet Insurance Reveals 42% of Brits Would Choose Dog or Cat Over Partner

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Feb 15, 2011, 06:55 ET

LONDON, Feb. 15, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- M&S Pet Insurance has revealed that if it came down to "it's me or the pet", 42% of people would always choose their cat or dog over their partner, according to a recent survey it conducted.

The survey found that almost 42% of cat and dog owners would cancel a date if their pet was ill. So people who find themselves without a date this Valentine's Day may want to blame the dog instead of their partner.

Yet despite the nation's love for their dogs and cats, take-up of pet insurance is still relatively low. Only 42% of dog owners and 26% of cat owners have insurance for their pet*.

Andrew Ferguson, M&S head of insurance, said: "Our survey shows that Britain is truly a pet-loving nation. It is surprising therefore, that ownership of pet insurance remains relatively low. Taking out insurance can avoid the need for large payments when your pet needs treatment.

"Pet owners should make sure the policy they choose offers the appropriate level of cover. M&S Premier Pet Insurance offers up to 7,000 pounds Sterling a year in vets' fees for illness and injury.

"M&S Pet Insurance not only provides cover if your dog or cat needs treatment. There are a range of other benefits, including access to a 24-hours advice line. Vetfone nurses provide concerned animal lovers with immediate advice on a pet's condition and can decide whether emergency medical treatment is required."

M&S Money was named 'Best Pet Insurance Provider' at the 2011 Consumer Moneyfacts Awards.

Notes to Editors:

All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 2044 adults. Fieldwork was undertaken between 26th - 28th January 2011. The survey was carried out online. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all GB adults (aged 18+).

* According to Mintel report 'Pet Insurance, Finance Intelligence, January 2011'.

About M&S Money:

M&S Money (the trading name of Marks & Spencer Financial Services) was founded in 1985 as the financial services division of Marks and Spencer Group plc.

The company is a top-ten credit card provider and the second-largest travel money retailer in the UK. M&S Money also offers a range of insurance cover, including home insurance, travel insurance and car insurance, as well as loans, savings and investment products.