Compulsory dog insurance 'is flawed'

Thu 11 Mar 2010 - Published in Pet Insurance

The government's proposals to introduce compulsory insurance for dogs are flawed, according to an expert.

Earlier this week, Home Secretary Alan Johnson and Environment Secretary Hilary Benn suggested a range of measures to cut down on the number of attacks on people from breeds such as pit bulls and rottweilers, including insurance to ensure victims are compensated.

John Miles, head of home and pet insurance at comparison website Gocompare.com, pointed out that the move would be "unpopular" with dog owners, as they already spend around Ł677 a year on food, vets' bills and other requirements.

"Compulsory pet insurance is unlikely to be a panacea to the problem of so-called dangerous dogs. Insurance has many benefits but it is rarely the most effective tool for changing behaviour," he added.

Mr Miles also claimed the move would not affect irresponsible dog owners, who would just ignore the need for insurance - in the same way some people flout car insurance laws.

This week, research from Saga Pet Insurance showed that the average annual vet bill in the UK stands at Ł598, which is a 101per cent, which is a 101 per cent increase over the past three years.

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