Pet claims

Pet accident or injury: what to do and what to gather

Get your pet treated first, then pull together the vet's paperwork.

If your pet is hurt, get to a vet first. The claim can wait.

Do this first

1. Get your pet treated
2. Ask the vet for an itemised invoice and their notes
3. Write down how it happened while it's fresh
4. Check how your insurer wants the claim sent Some can be claimed directly at the vet.

Who to tell

• Your pet insurer: Start your claim, often within a time limit after treatment. Check your policy.

What to gather

• The itemised vet invoice. Itemised, not just a total.
• The vet's diagnosis and treatment notes. Shows what was treated and why.
• Proof of payment. Receipt or card statement.
• How and when the accident happened. Insurers ask for the cause.
• Your pet's previous vet history. Insurers check for pre-existing conditions.
• Photos of the injury or the scene. Supports the account.
• Microchip number and vaccination record. Identifies your pet.

Things that catch people out

• Conditions that existed before cover started, or during a waiting period, are usually excluded.
• Check the time limit for lodging a claim after treatment.

General guidance only. It isn't your insurer's requirements or financial advice. Always check your policy documents and your insurer's instructions.