Churchill Pet Insurance, which is part of RBS Insurance, the second largest general insurer in the UK and is wholly owned by the Royal Bank of Scotland Group, claims that chocolate poisons pets.

In a recent announcement it stated that ten per cent of dog owners, which equates to just under three million people, are unknowingly putting their pet cats and dogs in danger by regularly feeding them chocolate.

Churchill says that their contention that chocolate poisons pets is based on the little known fact that this treat, loved by humans, can in fact be toxic to our four legged friends. And the reason for this is that it contains theobromine, one, say Churchill, of the most common causes of pooch and moggy poisonings.

Claire Foster, from Churchill Pet Insurance, said: “We want to raise awareness of the dangers of feeding chocolate to the family pet…as there is a danger that some doting owners could end up harming their pets without realising it. We’d advise pet owners to keep their chocolate well out of the reach of hungry four-legged friends, and to be extremely cautious as even a small amount of chocolate could poison their pet.”

 “Consult your veterinarian without delay if your pet appears distressed, listless or in pain after eating. However, treating pets that have eaten dangerous or poisonous food can be very costly, so make sure you have pet insurance in place to cover any unforeseen vet bills and to give you peace of mind in the event of your pet falling ill.”

And if you’re worried, always consult your vet says Churchill. Looks out for signs including pain after eating, uncharacteristic tiredness, or distress. 

But, it’s not only chocolate that causes problems for pets; there are a whole host of other food stuffs that can cause pets problems. Take raisins and grapes, which can indeed be lethal. They are  toxic to dogs and cats and can damage the kidneys.

Also, green tomatoes can give cats tummy upsets; macadamia nuts can cause hindquarter tremors and are generally toxic to dogs; and, onions can cause anaemia in dogs.

Tesco Bank has not only announced that its sold its one millionth pet insurance policy, but also revealed the most popular pet names inspired by drinks names, 2010.

The lucky recipient of the millionth Tesco pet insurance policy is a Labrador from Doncaster appropriately called Fizz.

Owner Philip Shepherd trilled:
“Fizz really is one in a million! She’s as much a part of this family as any of us. We’d be beside ourselves if anything ever happened to her and should she fall ill or have an accident, we want to be able to give her the best possible care. I consider my Tesco Pet insurance policy to be an affordable way to make sure Fizz is well looked after and gives me peace of mind.”

Mr Shepherd was obviously delighted by the news that Fizz will be covered by a Tesco policy, although some cynics might wonder how much help Mr Shepherd had with his quote from the Tesco PR team.

But it did give Tesco the opportunity of drawing up a list of the most popular pet names inspired by drinks.

Topping the list is – cue slow French music and a bunch of peasants passing around a glass of golden liquid – the name Stella, although the same cynics as above might also suggest that Stella is actually a woman’s name as well.

Number two on the list is PEPSI, although there was no mention of COCO-COLA.

Third spot is taken by that popular Scottish drink Whisky, although there is another spelling of course, Whiskey.

Fourth spot is Fizz, although many would be unsure what drink this is named after, as it better represents the sound of a drink when being opened.

In at fifth are fans of the black stuff with a creamy head, although shouting Guinness at the top of your voice in a park might get a few strange looks, as well as a visit from the police.

Sixth is Brandy, which is perhaps a little better than calling your pooch Cognac. Seventh, Merlot, is an odd one and suggests a more refined pet owner, one that appreciates the noble rot and has been on a wine tour of that place just over the Channel.

Bringing up the rear in eighth, ninth and tenth respectively, are: Bacardi (imagine the bling on the collar); Carling (isn’t that the one with lots of mates); and, Budweiser (no doubt shortened to the more convenient Bud).

Stuart Austerberry, Pet Insurance Product Manager, at Tesco Bank, said, with tongue firmly in cheek no doubt:

“It’s fascinating to see we are now opening our fridges and peering into our drinks cabinets and for inspiration when it comes to our pet’s names!

“Regardless of where the names come from, we never underestimate just how much UK families value their four legged friends. As a result, Tesco pet insurance aims to be a convenient and great value way of caring for our animals. It’s designed to be easy to understand, hassle free to purchase and provide comprehensive cover for our customers.”

Every little helps of course.

Guest Article by Neil Camp