Allstate teams with PetCare to provide pet insurance (September 20, 2005)

Allstate Insurance Company of Canada has created an alliance with Pethealth and its PetCare Insurance Programs to bring economic accident and illness care to the estimated 55% of Canadian households who own dogs and cats.
“We are receiving more questions from consumers concerned about the costs of treatment for unexpected illness and accident suffered by their pets,” George Hill, vice president of Allstate Canada, says. “We are in the business of providing peace of mind to our customers and their families when we insure their homes, lives and cars.
“We felt this was meaningful protection that augments their household protection needs. Having the right type of insurance to cover the family pet will alleviate a great deal of stress for many families.”
A recent Pet Owner Study released by the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association found that 74% of dog owners and 60% of cat owners feel their cats and dogs are members of their families. And, according to the American Animal Hospital Association, two out of every three pets will be stricken with a serious illness or injury during their lifetime.
Pethealth Inc. President and CEO Mark Warren said “we are delighted about being able to offer our insurance products through Allstate’s agent force. In 2005, North Americans will spend well over $19 billion dollars on veterinary care.”
“In unexpected situations”, says Warren, “the cost of pet care can go beyond the means of the family.”
Two levels of coverage will be offered QuickCare, an accident and selected illness coverage program, and MasterCare, which offers comprehensive accident and illness coverage. Coverage for pets can start as early as eight weeks of age and multi-pet discounts are available.