We are collecting our new labrador puppy in approx 5 weeks time.  As we have never had pet insurance before and the choice seems daunting to say the least, can anyone recommend any good providers?  what sort of level of package should we go for?  Sorry we are new to all this!!!

Pet Plan, vets love em and will bill them direct.

For life cover.

Do a search on this site for insurance.  You will find loads of views and experiences.

I agree Petplan are great, we looked round loads and these were practically the only ones that would pay out for chronic diseases (like hip dysplasia), they are a bit more expensive than some but it's worth it, especially with a lab.

Sarah

Thanks for the info - I've checked out the other numerous threads on insurance which have been really helpful.  I am going to look into both the M & S policy and the petplan in a bit more detail.  Although I must say the option of paying more and eliminating the excess with the M & S option does sound very good.

Direct Line are fantastic,  They are one of the cheapest and do a life cover for illnesses which is approx £11 per Month. (Much Cheaper if you want just the normal yearly cover per illness or accident) Excess is £45 per illness or accident.
My last dog had a long rare illness and was clocking up about £200 a month vets bills for some time, but I just periodically handed a claim form to my vets who then send it to Direct Line, who then pay the vet direct, No hassle or worry to me.  
They never quibbled over anything and were always polite and very helpful.
I have just insured my new pup with them.

Bev

I've always used Petplan but they aren't cheap. I asked my vets receptionist recently about some of the cheaper one - More Than, Sainsburys etc and she said although they didn't have many clients on any of them, they had no problems. Just don't use E&L - they are famous for not paying!