Buying a pet

Taking on a pet cat or dog is a huge commitment. So make sure you choose one from a reputable source that suits your lifestyle as well as your needs. Here’s how…

Where to buy

Breeders

Where you buy your cat or dog from depends on what kind of animal you are looking for and your budget. For those who want a true pedigree or ‘show’ cat or dog you need to go to a reputable breeder. You can find these through cat or dog clubs such as www.thekennelclub.org.uk or www.nationalcatclub.co.uk, or through advertisements on websites such as www.petwebsite.com. However, there are bogus dealers around, some of whom trade with stolen animals so make sure you check all credentials out. The advantages of buying from a reputable breeder are that they rear animals from good quality stock for good health, looks and temperament. If you want a specific type of cat or dog you can also go to a specialist breeder.

Animal rescue

Another reputable source for buying pet cats or dogs is from an animal rescue home. Although it is less likely that you will know the breeding of your cat or dog – some of them could be pedigree, however – all animals that come into the home should be nurtured back to good health and only offered up as pets when they are in a fit and happy condition. For a full listing of animal rescue websites and homes, including those for cats and dogs, visit www.animalrescuers.co.uk.

Pet shops and private sales

Sometimes kittens and puppies are available from pet shops. However, these often come from unwanted pregnancies and often the background of the pet is not known. You cannot therefore be sure that the animal you will be buying is from good stock or in good health. The same goes for private sales from people who are not breeders, even if they are from people you know. If in any doubt as to the health of a pet you will be buying, then try another source. Anybody who buys an unhealthy or unhappy pet will soon find out the financial, physical and emotional costs of their purchase!

What to buy

What kind of cat or dog you buy is entirely up to you, but your responsibility lies with buying a pet that fits your lifestyle and environment – a big dog is not ideal for a small city flat, for example. You should also be aware that there are certain illegal breeds of dangerous dog on the market. You can find out more about these from our article on the recently passed Animal Welfare Act. This act not only lists banned dogs but also states that no child under 16 years of age can purchase a pet. At Direct Line we also make it part of our Advanced and Essential pet insurance policies not to insure certain breeds of dogs. Check our online pet insurance policy documents for more details.

When to buy

According to dog and cat clubs, the ideal age to buy a puppy is around 7-8 weeks old and for kittens between 12-16 weeks of age. Your Direct Line pet insurance policy covers cats and dogs between 8 weeks and up to 9 years (some breeds only up to 6 years).

Whatever kind of cat or dog you choose to buy, protect your pet with pet insurance from Direct Line. Simply apply online for a pet insurance quote today.