Dog Insurance

Arguably a man's best friend, a dog will give you a lifetime of unconditional love, loyalty, and friendship. This little pup that you have nurtured throughout its years will be a permanent member of your family. So when it comes to being presented with the choice of insuring our faithful pet or saving ourselves money many would not see it as a neccessary measure as they don't tend to think about the future.

Young puppies are like babies and toddlers. They lack full coordination, so the likelihood that they might fall is greater. They aren't experienced in knowing which situations can prove dangerous and consequently hurt themselves. And they are so small they don't realise when they are obstructing your way. This is why we recommend that you enroll them while they are young before any pre-existing conditions begin to develop, or accidents and illness might occur.

Below is a brief summary of some of the breeds that are commonly insured.

The Beagle

Health concerns:
Some lines can be prone to heart disease, epilepsy, eye and back problems. They are also prone to chondroplasia, more familiarly known as dwarfism.

Exercise habits:
Energetic and possessing great stamina, the Beagle needs plenty of exercise, but a yard of reasonable size will take care of most of its requirements. A brisk daily walk will cover the rest. Always use a lead when walking this breed or you will be running the risk of it disappearing in search of wild game.

The average life expectance for a Beagle is about 12-15 years.

The Dalmation

Health concerns:
Deafness affects 10-12% of Dalmatian puppies. Every Dalmatian puppy should be BAER-tested for deafness, and totally deaf puppies should be spayed or neutered. They should be checked as a puppy at about 6 weeks old. Deaf dogs are very difficult to raise and often become aggressive and snappish from fear. Urinary stones and skin allergies (especially to synthetic fibers in carpets and upholstery) are also sometimes inherited. Uric acid levels in Dalmatians are higher than in any other breed, sometimes causing urinary blockage. Veterinarians may recommend a low protein diet for this breed to prevent urinary tract problems.

Exercise habits:
The Dalmatian is a very energetic breed and needs daily romps to prevent destructiveness.

The average life expectance for a Dalmation is about 10-12 years.

The Golden Retriever

Health concerns:
They are prone to hip dysplasia and congenital eye defects. OFA and CERF certification are important from both parents. Parents should also be checked for Von Willebrand's disease and heart problems. Skin allergies are common in Golden Retrievers and require immediate veterinary attention.

Exercise habits:
The Golden Retriever needs daily exercise, but likes to retrieve balls and other toys, so exercising is fairly easy. Be sure to exercise your dog well and not to overfeed him, as this breed tends to put on weight.

The average life expectance for a Golden Retriever is about 10-12 years.

The Pekingese

Health concerns:
Pekingese tend to catch colds very easily. Very difficult births. Prone to herniated disks and dislocated kneecaps. Trichaiasis (lashes growing inwards toward the eyeballs). Breathing problems and heart problems are also common.

Exercise habits:
Some Pekingese are disinclined to take walks and although they don't need much exercise, they will stay in better health if given regular sessions of playful activity. Get your Pekingese accustomed to the leash when they are still a puppy. Research has shown that some Pekingese will walk up to 4 miles on a nightly walk whereas others will not walk on a leash at all. Try using a harness (instead of a collar) and a retractable leash.

The average life expectance for a Pekingese is about 10-15 years.

The Shih-Tzu

Health concerns:
These breeds do tend to wheeze and snore. Some bloodlines are prone to ear, eye and respiratory problems. Spinal disc disease caused by a long back and short legs may be a problem. Their teeth need regular veterinary attention, as they tend to be lost early. These dogs gain weight easily and should not be overfed.

Exercise habits:
The Shih Tzu is a naturally active dog but if it is allowed it will lay around indoors. They should be encouraged to get out and about to say fit. Daily walks are a good idea. Do not over feed this breed or it will quickly become fat.

The average life expectance for a Shih-Tzu is about 15 years or more.