Having a pet at home is fun and exciting, but you should also be responsible. You should take proper care of it and train it to behave well in public.

There is so much to consider when caring for a pet that it could soon add to your expenses. 

Trips to the vet are also costly, so it is advisable to have pet insurance coverage for your pet dog or cat.

In this post, you’ll learn about pet insurance and how to find affordable pet insurance. 

What Is Pet Insurance, And Why Do You Need It?

Pet insurance is an insurance policy that a pet owner buys. Its goal is to help lessen the overall costs of taking care of a pet, especially in terms of veterinary expenses.

The coverage concept is very similar to people’s health insurance policies. Pet insurances generally cover a part of or the total costs of expensive veterinary examinations and procedures. 

The procedures are similar to life and health insurance policies that pet owners are already familiar with. However, you must compare several pet insurance policies before committing to one.

Why Should You Compare Pet Insurance?

A visit to the vet could be expensive, but so is pet insurance. That is why you need to consider and company several pet insurance coverages before choosing the suitable one for your pet.

Switching pet insurance is not the same as doing so for home or car insurance. It will not save you money but will cost you more because your pet will be much older and less healthy than when you bought the previous insurance policy.

That is one of the main reasons you must compare pet insurance and choose one wisely. You must find the right pet insurance policy at an affordable price.

How To Find Affordable Pet Insurance?

Finding an affordable pet insurance policy is crucial to stick to it in the long run. You must check for insurance deals and compare various deals via insurance company websites and the like.

You must have some knowledge of this subject matter to be able to choose the right insurance policy for your pet.

How To Compare Pet Insurance Quotes?

You can compare pet insurance policy quotes on price comparison websites. These sites will give you an idea of the costs of different types of insurance policies.

Once you visit the insurance company’s website, you must check if the pet insurance policy details match your expectations.

Another thing to note is if the insurance company has the correct details about you and your pet so that the insurance quote is accurate.

What Do You Need To Get A Pet Insurance Quote?

You need the below details to get an insurance quote for your pet.

• Its age
• Its breed
• Its size
• Its medical history and current health condition
• Its behavioral history
• For how much you bought it if bought instead of adopted

Your pet’s breed is vital when choosing the correct type of insurance. Some breeds are more prone to specific injuries, making them more expensive to insure.

Therefore, learn about the needs of your pet’s particular breed, as it will help you find a cheaper premium. 

For example, dachshunds can be prone to back issues and labrador retrievers to cruciate ligament issues. Treatment costs for these issues are very high and can set you back by thousands of dollars.

Cats are relatively healthier than dogs, so that you can consider a lower level of cover. However, cats can be prone to certain chronic conditions like hyperthyroidism, especially later in their lives.

You must also speak to your vet about your pet’s health condition and hereditary issues. They will be able to estimate how much insurance you should get for your furry friend.

Use Cashback Sites To Get Cheaper Insurance

Another type of comparison website is the cashback site. As the name denotes, these sites pay pet owners a cash reward when they buy products and services from their websites. The services rewarded included insurance as well.

These websites are worth visiting while you shop for discounts, deals, and offers. However, they may not necessarily offer you the best deals, even with the cashback reward. Therefore, you need to go through these sites and analyze them well.

For example, a $1000 insurance policy with $200 cashback is far from a bargain if you can get the same coverage from another insurance policy for $700.

What Type Of Pet Insurance Do You Need?

Here are the three primary types of pet insurance.

Lifetime Cover Pet Insurance

Lifetime cover pet insurance is the most comprehensive and popular type of pet insurance available. 

It pays out indefinitely for medical treatment for your pet’s entire life, with annual limitations.

Non-Lifetime Cover Pet Insurance

Non-lifetime cover pet insurance is a less comprehensive form of pet insurance. In this policy, cover for conditions can ‘run out’ within the pet’s lifetime.

Non-lifetime policies exclude health conditions after a cash limit has been depleted or the time limit has been exceeded.

Accident-Only Pet Insurance

Accident-only pet insurance is the cheapest type of insurance that you are able to get for your pet. It doesn’t cover any illnesses or health conditions. 

It will only pay a fixed amount for any treatment due to accidents and injuries.

How Much Insurance Cover Do You Need?

The average pet insurance claim in 2021 was $1050, a significant rise compared to the average paid in 2020, which was $1012. It is believed to have risen due to the increasing cost of treatments.

Therefore, you may need to make several claims, which are becoming common today. To avoid this type of situation, follow these steps:

• Look for an insurance policy that pays for both illnesses and injuries
• Stay away from insurance policies from which you can claim less than $2478 per year

Keep in mind that these are minimum recommendations. The pet owner will need to bear Any additional treatment cost beyond the cover amount.

Is Pet Insurance Worth It?

The opportunity to claim greatly depends on the pet owner. You are left with no alternative if you are unconvinced about the amount your pet insurance covers.

You can self-insure by saving an amount dedicated to paying vet bills when required. The good thing about this method is that you have the money for any emergency, and it can also earn interest. Its total value may also vary depending on factors like inflation.

However, this fund needs a significant amount, such as thousands of dollars. Therefore, you need to start saving early.

Cheap Pet Insurance For Multiple Pets

Some insurance policies provide concessions when you insure more than one pet. Find out if you can get a discount by insuring all your pets with a single insurance provider. Several pet insurers offer discounts to insure multiple pets, but not all do.

A multi-pet policy will cut your costs more, so you need to find out if your insurance provider does so.

Cheap Pet Insurance For Distinct Pets

Unique pets may be given special attention regarding insurance coverage due to their rarity among pets.

Dogs and cats are among the most popular pets in almost every household. It’s not often that you find spiders, snakes, and lizards kept as pets.

There are also more exotic types of pets, such as rabbits, horses, and birds, that may not be covered under traditional insurance policies.

Speak to different pet insurance specialists to see if your pet can be covered traditionally, or reach out for further help.

More Ways To Get Cheap Pet Insurance

Here are a few ways to get cheap pet insurance.

• Pay annually.
• Get your pet insured when it is young and healthy.
• Microchip your pet and use a GPS tracking device for dogs.
• Ensure your pet is up-to-date on its vaccinations.
• Haggle on renewal.

Pet Insurances 

Here are a few of the best pet insurances available.

• Figo Pet Insurance
• Trupanion
• Embrace Pet Insurance
• Nationwide
• Healthy Paws
• Petplan
• MetLife Pet Insurance
• Pets Best Insurance

Final Thoughts

Getting your pet insured is a wise decision and one that is essential to consider. It will help you cut down on all the expensive vet bills you may have to cover during your pet’s lifetime.

Depending on the type of pet you have and its breed, the insurance coverage must be decided. It’s best to speak to your vet about any underlying health condition your pet may have or is prone to. 

There are different types of pet insurance to choose from, including lifetime cover, non-lifetime cover, and accident-only pet insurance. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are The Different Types Of Pet Insurance?

The types of pet insurance are lifetime cover pet insurance, non-lifetime cover pet insurance, and accident-only pet insurance.

Which Level Of Pet Insurance Is Best?

A lifetime cover pet insurance is best for pets as it will have limits that renew every year. Renewing limits will protect you from recurring and long-term health problems during your pet’s lifetime.

What Dog Breeds Have The Cheapest Health Insurance?

Dog breeds like Yorkshire Terriers, Australian Shepherds, and English Springer Spaniels have the cheapest health insurance.

In the serene landscapes of Western Georgia, amidst rolling green hills and snow-capped peaks, an unassuming revolution is brewing. Meet Georgie Styles, a passionate advocate for sustainable tea trade, and the mind behind the captivating journey from Georgia to the UK…

As we settle into the colder months here in the UK, many of us are reaching for the kettle – a tool of tradition that exemplifies Great Britain’s strong thirst for tea. 

Yet despite our love for a hot brew, not many of us know where it comes from. Whilst the Camellia Sinensis (tea plant) is indeed native to China, South and Southeast Asia, it is in fact Kenya that is our largest tea trader, supplying over 40% of our UK tea needs, particularly black tea. 

However in a world of climate breakdown, and in a country with a brewing count of over 165 million cups of tea a day – that’s 60 billion cups a year – is the revival of Georgia’s lost tea industry, the most northerly tea producer in the world, the answer to our search for a more sustainable cuppa?

A Growing Thirst for Sustainability

Set across a backdrop of rolling green hills and snowy peaks in the distance, straw hats bob along rows of tea bushes.

“I love working here very, very much” says Potola Dzneladze, an elderly tea picker giggling with her colleagues as she vigorously snaps leaves off the bushes and drops them in a woven basket draped over her back. 

Potola has worked as a tea picker and grower for over 40 years, also tending to her own home tea garden in Ozurgeti – the capital of the Guria region of Western Georgia. This region is known across Georgia as the centre for tea thanks to its humid, subtropical climate and vast forested mountains.

As Potola speeds along lines of tea bushes, her well trained eye selecting the finest leaves with just a glance, she’s totally unaware that she is at the forefront of a brewing revolution which is set to serve the sustainability needs of the next generation. 

As the world moves further into a state of climate emergency, we are becoming ever more conscious of our consumer footprint. Here in the UK, every three in four adults feel ‘very’ worried about the state of the climate, and almost 70% of 16-29 year olds. Resulting in the rise of ‘climate anxiety’ or ‘eco-anxiety’ – heightened emotional, mental or somatic distress in response to dangerous changes in the climate system. 

This often goes hand in hand with changes in buying habits as a way to take control and ensure a positive impact on the world. A report by IPSOS on behalf of Yara International, shows that ‘58% of Europeans consider the climate impact important when buying food and beverages’ and another report by Kearney has revealed that by 2030, the majority of US consumers will be directed by the climate – consumer trends the UK is sure to follow. 

With the rise of the climate-conscious eater and terms like ‘climavore’ and ‘locavore’ hitting the headlines in 2023, this year is set to mark a new wave of climate-focussed consumerism. So in an industry that is worth almost £1bn, what we choose to put in our mugs can have a big impact. 

Georgia’s Tea History

Once amongst the finest tea producers of the world, Georgia, a country nestled between Turkey and Russia, is proud to have deep rooted tea traditions, resulting in an age-old tea obsession that almost matches that of the Brits. 

Rich in biodiversity, agrarian heritage and folklore centred around food and drink, Georgia is home to over 8000 years of viticulture, 525 acknowledged indigenous grape varieties, 12 microclimates (ranging from subtropical to semi-desert) and 49 different varieties of arable volcanic soil. Never has a country prided itself on its food heritage and traditions so strongly, and who can blame them? After a long history of occupation and foreign invasion, food has been the saviour of their national identity through generations of displacement.

After the Georgian Prince, Miha Eristavi, started the first tea farms in the region of Guria in 1847, Georgia took centre stage as the most northerly tea producer in the world, igniting a strong reverence for ‘terroir’ or ‘the taste of place’ with every sip of Georgian produced tea. 

However when Georgia was taken under USSR control in the 1930s, focus on the quality of tea production rapidly ended and shifted towards quantity. By the 1980s, Georgia was the fourth largest producer of tea in the world, supplying over 90% of the Soviet Union’s tea needs. Higher yields were achieved by the development of hybrid seeds, which impacted on taste and Georgia quickly lost one of its prized specialities. After the Soviet empire collapsed, Georgia sadly lost its tea production passion and most of their plantations went into disrepair. 

A Brewing Revolution

Fast forward 30 years and there is a revival of Georgia’s lost tea industry, igniting a resurgence of high quality, Nature-driven tea production.

“I really enjoy working in the tea plantations again now, the quality is much better and I get to choose the quality of the tea I pick,” says Lamara, a 67 year old tea picker who studied tea technology at a Georgian university. 

Lamara picks tea for some of Georgia’s 80 tea producers, now churning out 2,500 tonnes of tea whilst repairing their ancient plantations, upholding Nature and redefining quality. Producers are once again harvesting from wild plants, and slowly reviving plantations in line with Nature that have been left untouched for decades.

Geoflower – Georgia’s flagship of the regenerative tea revolution – brews up 100% Organic, FairWild certified, Single Estate mountain tea. Foraging Georgia’s bountiful natural resources, they blend wild roots, herbs, flowers and fruits to create unique flavours fit for increasingly climate-conscious consumers.

“Everybody should take climate responsibility on their shoulders, otherwise it’s not going to work. If you’re only counting how much profit [you have], it’s not going to work – [this is] our philosophy” says Gocha Dzneladze from Geoflower. 

But not only is Georgia now reviving their tea traditions and plantations, they are now marrying their traditional folklore, foraging and drinks production techniques with the future of green technology to stay ahead of the curve in a competitive market.

Geoflower has developed innovative environmental credentials such as tea-drying ovens fuelled by waste hazelnut shells and achieving 90% of renewable energy from solar, reaching their net-zero emission goals sooner than 2030 targets. 

This merging of tradition and environmental innovations, is the new face of Georgian tea. 

The New Age Of Tea

Located on the fringes of the EU – and perhaps soon to be a new EU member state – Georgia has growing export potential across the EU and UK, which producers like Geoflower are keen to take advantage of. 

So as the demand for sustainable, emissions-conscious production comes more rapidly than a change in our tastes, Georgia’s captivating tea-revival is well-placed to quench the thirst for shorter supply-chains and high quality, nature-driven products that the next generation of UK tea drinkers will happily sip on.

Europe is home to a plethora of photogenic destinations, each offering its own unique charm and beauty. Many destinations can provide a perfect blend of natural beauty, historic charm, and unique architecture, making them ideal for capturing stunning photographs. Here are just a select few of the most photogenic places to visit in Europe…

Santorini, Greece

Santorini is a stunning island in the southern Aegean Sea and is part of the Cyclades group of islands in Greece. It is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and traditional Cycladic architecture characterised by white-washed buildings with blue-domed roofs and colourful shutters. The contrast of the white buildings against the deep blue sea and sky creates a visually striking scene.

The most iconic images of Santorini often feature the panoramic views of the caldera, a large volcanic crater filled with deep blue water. The villages of Fira and Oia, perched on the cliffs overlooking the caldera, provide some of the most spectacular sunset views in the world. Oia, located on the northern tip of the island, is particularly famous for its sunset views. The sun setting over the caldera paints the sky with hues of orange and pink, creating a magical atmosphere.

The windmills and the castle in Oiaare popular spots to capture this breathtaking moment. Also for history enthusiasts, the ancient city of Akrotiri, preserved in volcanic ash, provides a glimpse into the island’s Minoan past. The ruins, including well-preserved frescoes, offer interesting subject matter for photography. Whether you’re exploring the charming villages, enjoying the sunset in Oia, or relaxing on the beautiful beaches, Santorini offers endless opportunities for capturing the beauty of the Greek islands.

Hallstatt, Austria

Hallstatt, Austria is a picturesque village known for its stunning Alpine scenery, charming architecture, and serene lakeside location. Here are some photo opportunities you might want to explore.  You can capture the beauty of Lake Hallstatt with the village reflected in the clear waters. Sunrise and sunset are particularly magical times for photographing the lake. Marktplatz, the heart of Hallstatt, is surrounded by colourful buildings and featuring a charming fountain, which all make the square especially photogenic during different times of the day.

The surrounding Dachstein Mountain Range provides a stunning backdrop and it is worth taking a boat trip on the lake or going to elevated viewpoints for panoramic shots. But if you are looking for the classic viewpoint that many photographers use to capture the entire village, lake, and mountains. It’s accessible by a short hike up the hill.

The Highlands, Scotland

The Scottish Highlands offer breathtaking landscapes and diverse photography opportunities. You can capture everything from vast and dramatic landscapes, rugged mountains, serene lochs, and expansive moorlands. Explore the numerous castles and historic sites scattered throughout the Highlands, such as Eilean Donan Castle, Urquhart Castle, and Dunrobin Castle, which are all very dramatic, especially during sunrise or sunset. You can utilise the still waters of lochs for reflections of mountains and clouds – Loch Ness, Loch Lomond, and Loch Shiel are just a few examples worth visiting.

Take advantage of the ever-changing weather conditions in the Highlands. Misty mornings and low-hanging clouds can add a mysterious and ethereal quality to your photos. The differing seasons provide a wide range of photo opportunities. You can capture the changing colours of autumn, the snow-covered landscapes in winter, the vibrant blooms in spring, and the long days of summer. Whatever the season, remember to check the weather forecast and be prepared for rapidly changing conditions. The key to great photography in the Scottish Highlands is to be patient, embrace the unpredictable weather, and appreciate the natural beauty that surrounds you.

Barcelona, Spain

The Sagrada Familia is Gaudí’s masterpiece and one of the most famous landmarks in Barcelona. The architecture of the Sagrada Familia is characterised by its intricate and organic design, inspired by nature. The facades are adorned with detailed sculptures, and the interior features towering columns and a unique play of light. Park Güell, a public park with colourful and imaginative architectural elements is another great photo opportunity within the city.

The park’s main terrace is surrounded by a long bench in the form of a sea serpent, and the vibrant mosaics, known as “trencadís,” add a playful and lively atmosphere. The entrance pavilions and gingerbread-house-like structures throughout the park showcase Gaudí’s playful use of shapes and colours. Photographing these architectural wonders provides a visual feast, to be enjoyed long after your visit.

Prague, Czech Republic

The historic city of Prague, with its charming Old Town Square, Prague Castle, and Charles Bridge, is a fairy-tale setting for photography. Prague’s cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and the Vltava River flowing through the city contribute to its fairy-tale ambiance. The city is known for its well-preserved mediaeval and Baroque architecture, creating a magical atmosphere that’s particularly enchanting during sunrise and sunset.

Photographers often find inspiration in the interplay of light and shadow on the city’s historic buildings, the reflections in the river, and the overall romantic atmosphere. Whether capturing the intricate details of Prague Castle, the lively scenes in Old Town Square, or the timeless beauty of Charles Bridge, there’s no shortage of captivating subjects for photography in this enchanting city.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is a picturesque city with numerous places for capturing beautiful shots. Explore the iconic canal belt with its historic houses and picturesque bridges, especially in neighbourhoods like Jordaan and De Pijp, taking a canal cruise can offer you unique perspectives of the city. The sea of bicycles is a quintessential part of Amsterdam’s culture.

Look for bike-lined streets and dedicated parking areas.  Depending on when you visit you might catch the tulip season (typically April) and the Keukenhof Gardens, located just outside the city, is a stunning location for photographing the colour-packed tulip fields. Remember to respect privacy and local regulations when taking photos, especially in sensitive areas such as the Red Light District. Additionally, capturing the essence of Amsterdam often involves exploring its charming streets and canals, so don’t hesitate to venture off the beaten path for hidden gems.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik is a stunning city with its well-preserved mediaeval architecture, charming old town, and picturesque coastal setting. Take photos from various points along the city walls for panoramic views of the red-tiled roofs, the Adriatic Sea, and the surrounding landscapes. Or wander through the narrow, cobblestone streets of the old town and capture the charming architecture, vibrant flowers, and local life. If you are feeling adventurous tTake the cable car or hike up Mount Srd for breathtaking sunset views over the city.

The changing colours of the sky against the city’s silhouette make for a magical scene. Early morning or late afternoon light can add a warm glow to your shots. But at night the city takes on a magical atmosphere at night when the lights come on. Capture the illuminated buildings and the reflections in the polished stone streets. Whether you’re capturing the city’s historic sites, its natural beauty, or the daily life of its residents, Dubrovnik offers a wealth of photo opportunities.

Each of these destinations offer a mix of natural beauty, historic charm, and unique architecture, making them ideal for capturing stunning photographs. All that is left for you to do is pack your camera equipment, get it to your chosen destination and get snapping.