The claims procedure can vary enormously between individual pet insurance companies, however, many leading insurers for pets have tried to simplify the claim process not least because of the trauma and emotion involved when a pet suffers illness or injury following an accident. An example of this is the accessibility of claim forms through the internet. Traditionally, existing pet insurance policyholders were expected to register a claim through a telephone call centre after which a form was dispatched. Instead some insurers for pets now allow customers to download a form online and advise them regarding what documentation is required to accompany the completed claims form.

Typical pet insurance claims consist of vets fees, boarding fees, advertising and reward, death from injury, death from illness, holiday cancellation, loss by theft and straying and third party liability. In some instances such as claiming for advertising and reward, you will be required to seek approval from the pet insurance claims department before going ahead. As with most types of insurance policies, it is up to the policyholder to substantiate their claim and pay the vet or any other applicable practitioner to complete the form. If your pet is lost through theft or straying, the insurance company may not consider a claim until after 30 or 60 days has elapsed.

Following the purchase of a pet, consider keeping the original receipts or the pedigree certificate in a safe place and any other documentation to prove when you bought the animal as some pet insurance companies may require this information following notification of a claim.

In the event of a dispute, the insurance company will advise you to follow their claims procedure. Once this course of action is exhausted, it is normal practice for the Financial Ombudsman to review the claim and decide whether you should be paid or not.