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~NATION’S LEADING PET INSURER SHARES TOP TEN REASONS OWNERS TAKE THEIR PETS TO THE VETERINARIAN~

VPI’s Claims Data Reveals Ear Infections for Dogs and Urinary Tract Infections for Cats Most Prevalent

 

Brea, CA. (July 21, 2005) --- A recent review of policyholder claims by Veterinary Pet Insurance Company/DVM Insurance Agency (VPI) identifies the top reasons why dog and cat owners with VPI Pet Insurance took their pets to the veterinarian in 2004.  Data reveals that dogs were treated most frequently for ear infections, while cats were taken to the veterinarian for urinary tract infections (UTIs) over any other condition.  The complete list of top conditions/illnesses follows: 

 
According to VPI’s annual claim results, 9 percent of all claims for dogs were submitted for ear infections and close to 7 percent of all claims filed for cats were for feline lower urinary tract disease last year.  “The frequency of diseases such as ear infections and bladder infections in both dogs and cats is a telltale sign that these pets visit the veterinarian for much more than annual exams and vaccinations,” said Dr. Carol McConnell, manager of veterinary services and education for VPI.  “Dogs and cats have similar organ systems and physiology as their human counterparts.  Accordingly, ailments such as stomach upsets and eye infections are as common in canines and felines as they are in humans.  In fact, I was asked the other day: ‘Do cats get asthma?’  The answer is a surprising Yes, your feline companion can get asthma and have trouble breathing just like you!”

 

  

2004 Top 10 Claims by Incident - Dogs

2004 Top 10 Claims by Incident - Cats
  1. Ear infections
  2. Skin allergies
  3. Stomach upsets
  4. Benign tumors
  5. Bladder infections
  6. Skin infections
  7. Sprains
  8. Eye infections
  9. Colitis
  10. Skin lacerations
  1. Urinary tract infections
  2. Stomach upsets
  3. Respiratory infections
  4. Ear infections
  5. Skin allergies
  6. Eye infections
  7. Wound infections
  8. Colitis
  9. Gum disease
  10. Kidney disease

Considering the host of injuries and illnesses that are diagnosed in companion animals, it makes sense to obtain medical insurance for “Fluffy” and “Fido,” just as one would for any other member of the household.  “As with human medicine, even common medical treatments for pets can sometimes burden the pocketbook,” added Dr. McConnell.  “Health insurance for your pet is a sensible financial planning strategy to offset the associated costs of veterinary care.”

VPI Pet Insurance base medical plans assist with payment for testing and treatment for not only the most frequently occurring conditions, but for thousands of illnesses and injuries, including allergies, skin problems, diabetes, and cancer.  Coverage helps pay for diagnostic tests, treatments, office visits, lab fees, prescriptions, hospitalization, X-rays, and surgical procedures.  Monthly premiums for the VPI Superior Plan, its flagship medical policy, start as low as $17 for dogs and $12 for cats.1

VPI analyzes its top ten conditions every year, and ear infections in dogs are consistently number one on the list.  What does this mean for your four-legged canine housemate?  Dr. McConnell emphasized, “Regular ear cleaning is essential, especially if your dog has long ears that impede air circulation into the ears, or if the pet frequently gets water in its ear from swimming and/or bathing.” 

“One thing has remained constant as we review this data year after year,” said Dr. McConnell.  “No matter what the diagnosis, a significant number of our policyholders are saving money when it comes to paying for testing and treatment of injuries and illnesses in their pets.”

About Veterinary Pet Insurance

Veterinary Pet Insurance is the nation’s oldest and largest health insurance provider for pets.  Selling policies since 1982, the company is committed to making the miracles of veterinary medicine affordable for all pet owners.  VPI Pet Insurance plans cover dogs, cats, birds and exotic pets for medical problems and conditions relating to accidents, illnesses and injuries.  Optional Vaccination & Routine Care Coverage is also available.

Policies are available in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.  Policies are underwritten by Veterinary Pet Insurance Company in California and in all other states by Madison, Wisconsin-based National Casualty Company, an A+XV A.M. Best rated company and a subsidiary of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company.  For more information about VPI Pet Insurance policies, call 800-USA-PETS (800-872-7387) or visit www.petinsurance.com. 

1.        VPI Pet Insurance plan rates are determined by species, age, and plan selected.  Rates are also subject to state availability.
 

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