Petplan notes rise in plastic surgery for animals

Petplan had claimed there is a growing demand among pet owners to enhance the looks of their animals.

According to the firm, plastic surgery is on the rise in the animal world and pet owners are forking out for everything from dental work to facelifts for their cats and dogs.

The company noted that cosmetic surgery claims for pets reached £1.5 million in 2010 alone.

Isabella von Mesterhazy, Petplan's head of marketing, said: "We know that 99 percent of pet owners consider their pets to be an integral member of the family."

She added that it is therefore "no surprise" that animal lovers will go to great lengths to ensure their pets look good.

Petplan Vet of the Year Brian Faulkner claimed that procedures like facelifts are often needed for breeds of dog that have naturally droopy eyes.

Recently, Petplan overhauled its policy range to ensure that its customers have a clear view of what is on offer to them and their animals.