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Making pet insurance more appealing
Meeting to discuss insurance issues and possible improvements

BVA past-president has discussed how pet insurance could be made more appealing to owners and insurers at a recent meeting, attended by representatives from the Association of British Insurers (ABI), the RCVS, BSAVA, BEVA and SPVS.

Harvey Locke, a previous BVA president, said the cost of pet insurance was becoming a huge issue, with premiums increasing by 10 to 12 per cent each year.

He added that only 20 per cent of owners currently insure their pets and that the sheer number and complexity of different policies available could be confusing to owners.

It is reported that numerous initiatives are currently being considered. These include developing an online calculator to help guide owners towards the post appropriate policy for their pet, and allowing owners to join and commit to an insurance scheme at the time of an accident.

The meeting highlighted the issue that an increasing number of owners are using price comparison websites to find pet insurance policies, as there are limitations to the information that can be provided on these websites. This was confirmed by price comparison representatives who were present at the meeting.

There was further concern that vets do not have direct access to companies to discuss matters, and it was therefore suggested that insurance companies look more closely at private medical insurance providers as a model.

"My impression at the end of the meeting is that there are limits to what the ABI can do," said Locke. "They do not have the power to instruct the companies or underwriters to toe the line."

At the meeting, Locke added that he believes the veterinary profession should deal more with insurance underwriters. Furthermore, he said the BVA is keen to know of instances of issues with insurance companies.

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.