Anyone know any insurance companies that do cover whelping and pregnancy costs? We are currently with Petwise, which don't, though at least they do seem to continue to cover other costs - I've heard of companies that cease to cover any costs if a bitch has been used for breeding! I'll ring them Tuesday to see if there's any way to increase cover to including whelping and pregnancy, but wondered if anyone could recommend anything. :-)

Pet Plan have a breeders' policy - but you'd have to contact them to see exactly what's covered.  When I had a litter, I spoke to them about cover, but I don't think a first litter from a bitch was covered at that time.  It's probably changed now but I'm sure they do some sort of cover.  All of mine are insured with them - not exactly what you'd call cheap but they do cover for life and, to me, that justifies the extra cost.  Personal choice though!

Pet Plan has whelping insurance but it works out very expensive.  They would not cover the bitches first litter and the insurance had to be in place six months before any subsequent pregnancy.

They all know that breeding is a risky business and can be expensive for you the owner.  Best to save up what you would have paid them and try to have about £1,000 back up in case you hit any difficulties when you do breed your bitch.

posted at the same time:rolleyes:

Thanks both! I mentioned it to my OH about our regular insurance not covering whelping, and he said he was considering just putting the insurance money into a separate bank account, as so far we have spent far more over the 5 years of dog owning on insurance than on vets fees! I do have a reasonable sum of money set aside specifically for this breeding attempt, as I need to buy equipment and be ready for vets bills, so perhaps we'll end up doing that!! :-D

I think that's very wise. :)  Over the past 20+ years, I've kept up to 6 dogs at a time (now downsized home and dogs! :) ) and with a little knowledge and a lot of common sense, not spent more than £1000 at the vets in total. :)  I would have been way out of pocket if I'd insured.

I wish somebody would invent a crystal ball for WHICH animal would need insurance. :D I'd buy one for sure! We don't have anyone insured (too many animals) but in the past 2 months we've had such a run of bad luck I think we've spent about £3000 at the vets.

I agree though you're probably better off saving the money Lucy. Good luck with the litter! :)