As bonfire night approaches, Fairinvestment.co.uk is reminding pet owners to protect their pockets and their pets with pet insurance.

In a recent poll of more than 2,000 people Fairinvestment.co.uk found that of those who owned a pet, only 26 per cent actually have pet insurance policies in place, leaving the remaining 74 per cent of pet owners open to unexpected vet bills.

Bonfire night is a busy time of year for vets, who reported 682 incidents of animals treated for distress and injuries between October and November in 2004, according to the RSPCA.

Fireworks are the main cause of distress to animals on bonfire night, in fact, according to the RSPCA, up to 45 per cent of dogs in the UK show fearful behaviour when they hear fireworks.

Commenting on the effect bonfire night and fireworks can have on pets Fairinvestment.co.uk spokesperson Rachael Stiles, said: “Fireworks can cause extreme anxiety for pets, which could lead to illnesses such as depression and fatigue which may need a vet’s attention.

“For the 74 per cent of pet owners without pet insurance, this could cause financial issues at this time of year. Most pet insurance policies will offer some degree of vet’s fees and treatment for the symptoms caused by fear of fireworks, so pet insurance is worth looking into to cut down on unexpected costs.”