Pet Insurance Explained

As a nation of animal lovers, many of us have pets. Whether you’re potty about parrots, dizzy over dogs or crazy for cats, the chances are you will need to visit the vet at some point. If you have pets, you know how much these bills can amount to. Pet insurance is a must. You can get all types of cover for a whole menagerie of animals. There is no equivalent to the NHS for your pets, so whether it’s a major operation or a general check-up, you’ll be footing the bill.

You can get cover not only for vet bills, but also if your pet is stolen, strays or dies. You can also get third party liability cover if your animal causes an accident, does any accidental damage and even holiday cancellation due to your pet.

There is often an excess to pay on any vet bill however, which is usually at a level which means you will have to pay for flea control treatments, worming and vaccinations. But this is not always the case, so make sure you fully understand the terms and conditions before you buy.

There are countless numbers of companies that offer insurance, so do your homework and find a policy that suits you and your beloved pet. Most companies cover cats and dogs, but if you have a more unusual animal like a reptile, exotic bird or horse, you may need to find a more specialist insurance company.

There are many pitfalls to look out for when buying pet insurance, other than an excess. Some policies will only cover a certain condition for a year. This means that if your pet has a reoccurring problem, anything from a specific type of cancer to an allergy or epilepsy, then you will only be covered for the first year. Always read the small print!

Want to Save Money But Don’t Know Where to Start?

Every day seems to bring more bad financial news at the moment, and even if you don’t understand completely the implications of it, we all know it’s not good. If ever there was a time to examine your finances and where your money is going, then this is it.

Saving money however is not always that easy. There always seems to be one reason or another cropping up meaning we can’t add to our savings accounts. It’s your mum’s birthday, the kids need new shoes, you’re going on holiday or whatever it is, there is always something. It can easily feel like your finances are out of your control.

There is no need to feel like this! If everything is a bit overwhelming and you are looking for some clarity, then keep a financial diary for a month or two. Write down everything you spend, in cash and on cards, even direct debits. A picture will quickly emerge of your spending patterns and bad habits.

We all have weaknesses and it’s usually the little things that add up rather than bigger expenses. Look at what you spend your cash on, and if there are ways to avoid parting with this money. We all have busy lives, but this trick is simple and doesn’t take much time. You’ll find that you save money just by keeping the diary as writing everything down will make you more reluctant to spend.

Whether you eat out once or twice too often a week, indulge in expensive clothes, taxis or holidays, there are always areas that you can work on with your spending. Old habits are hard to break, but think about what you’re buying and find a cheaper alternative. You’ll be so grateful in the long term .

BP Shares Affected by Storm Alex Comment

BP shares have fallen again today after the company announced on Monday that its oil spill operation might be hampered by the tropical storm Alex.

The company's total costs for the cleanup and all the other facets of the disaster including claims are now estimated at $100 million each day.

BP shareholders have been affected not just by share prices in the company falling by half this year, but by the fact that dividends will now not be paid out this year.

Around 80,000 claims have been made over the oil spill which began on April 20.