Looking after and insuring your new rescue dog
The RSPCA investigates almost 150,000 cases of alleged cruelty each year, many of them relating to dogs. If you’ve chosen to give a rescue dog a good home – well done. Here are some hints and tips to help you look after and insure the new member of your family.
The RSPCA investigates almost 150,000 cases of alleged cruelty each year, many of them relating to dogs. If you’ve chosen to give a rescue dog a good home – well done. Here are some hints and tips to help you look after and insure the new member of your family.
What is rescue dog insurance?
Rescue dog insurance can help cover veterinary costs should your rescue dog have an accident or need medical treatment. Depending on the type of insurance you choose, some policies may cover dental treatment, compensation if your pet passes away and third party liability insurance, should your dog injure someone or cause an accident.
What will I need to take out a rescue dog insurance policy?
To take out a pet insurance policy, will need to receive all medical information when you adopt your rescue dog, to notify your provider. Most rescue organisations will carry out veterinary assessments to rehabilitate your pet before adoption and will make a note of any pre-existing health conditions.
How should I settle in my rescue dog?
When you bring your new dog home for the first time, it can be hard to contain your excitement. But for your rescue dog, coming to a new home can be an anxious time.
Alex Eusden, pet expert and professional dog walker, outlines his top 7 tips to make sure your rescue dog settles in smoothly.
- Resist the temptation to constantly pet or stroke your dog – some won't like being handled and you could cause more stress for your new arrival.
- Spend time setting up a really comfortable sleeping area. This is where your dog will feel safe and secure.
- Be clear from day one about house rules. This can be 'no dogs upstairs or on the sofa'.
- Give them lots of praise when they follow commands – for example, sitting when they're told to.
- Let your dog explore quietly. Allow them to get used to the sights and smells of their new home.
- When visitors arrive, let the dog approach them first. Ask guests to act calmly to let the dog get used to their presence, as most dogs don't like full-on petting from strangers.
- Take your dog out for lots of lovely walks. Keep your dog on the lead at first, then work up to off-lead walks. This will help to quickly form a really strong bond.
When should I think about getting pet insurance for my rescue dog?
As soon as you bring your dog home you should think about taking out dog insurance to protect them.
Pet insurance can help cover vet costs if your dog gets ill, injured or has an accident. If you don’t have pet insurance, it’s likely that you’ll have to foot any vet bills yourself.
Should I tell my insurance company that my dog is a rescue dog?
Yes. While at the animal shelter, your dog would have undergone a medical, highlighting any health conditions and establishing their age.
You’ll need to keep this information and tell your insurance provider. It’s important to be upfront and honest as withholding information could invalidate your policy.
What about pet insurance for older dogs?
Just as with people, older dogs are more likely to have accidents or need medical attention. That’s why you’ll find your pet insurance premiums might increase with your dog’s age.
If you do have an older dog, then you might want to consider insurance policies that include dental cover too – this will help your pooch as he or she gets longer in the tooth.
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