Lack of pet insurance leaves owners with big bill

04 February 2010 17:08:23

A couple have been left with a vet's bill in excess of £1,000 after their beloved dog Spike swallowed a rubber duck.

Colin Smith and Lorraine Fenton gave the go-ahead for a risky operation despite the cost, a financial burden which might have been prevented if the couple had purchased pet insurance.

The situation was only discovered when the Patterdale terrier became lethargic and started to vomit, prompting his concerned owners to make a hurried trip to the vet.

An X-ray subsequently revealed the offending duck, which had become lodged in the animal's small intestine.

After an hour-long operation, intravenous fluids for three days and a course of antibiotics, the six-year-old pet was allowed to go home, taking with him a bill for £1,060.

"The operation was obviously very expensive and was bad just before Christmas, but we didn't even think of the cost at the time - you just pay whatever you have to," Mr Smith revealed.

Veterinary charity PDSA advises dog owners to take out pet insurance to ensure they can take care of their animals, even if they are on a budget.

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