Pet Insurance - Covering the Cost of the Cremation

Most pet insurance providers will help cover the cost of cremation; John Lewis, for example, will provide up to £100 for cremation if the death is a result of injury or illness covered under the policy.

If your pet is an expensive breed or is purebred, it may also reassure you to know that you can receive compensation for unexpected death due to an injury. Some insurance providers may cover the market value of your pet (up to a maximum amount), if your pet dies or is put to sleep by a vet following an insured injury. Death can also covered by some policies up to a set age but you should check with your provider as not all include this cover.

You should be aware that you will usually only receive compensation if your vet decides to put the pet down. If your vet believes it's more humane to keep your pet alive, but you still choose to have your pet put to sleep - you may find that your claim is not valid. You should also ensure that you keep all records relating to the death and cremation of your pet, as this will make the claims process easier. You should also keep records of:

> The death certificate from your vet
> Pedigree certificate and receipt for original purchase of your pet
> Any other relevant information your insurance provider may request

Once you have spoken to your insurance provider regarding your pet's cremation, you may want to think about the kind of ceremony you want to go with the cremation. Whilst your insurance will not usually cover more than the cost of the cremation itself, you may still want to do something to remember your pet by:

> Make a photo album: photographs are a good way to keep happy memories alive. You will enjoy flicking through old photographs of you and your pet once the cremation is over.

> Talk about it: some pet owners find it useful to talk about their pet's passing with other animal lovers. You may have a friend or neighbour you can talk to, or you may find internet websites useful for processing your grief.

> In Memoriam: if you get a new pet, you may think about giving him or her the same name as your previous pet to commemorate the pet you love.

Terms, conditions, exclusions and limitations apply: John Lewis plc is an appointed representative of AXA Insurance UK plc which is authorised and regulated by the financial services authority.