According to research commissioned by Tesco Bank, 21% of British dog owners took their dog on holiday somewhere in the UK during the past 12 months, with a holiday home the most popular accommodation option.

Tesco Bank Pet Insurance paid out almost £65m in pet insurance claims from March 2020 to February 2021, processing around £172,000 in claims a day.

Most claims were for medical treatments, with common conditions including sickness, tumours and lameness. The average medical claim paid out during the period was £727.50.

However, the insurer also processed a public liability claim worth more than £45,000 after a customer’s dog knocked over a claimant, causing a fractured wrist, while another claim was worth £2,200 for damage caused to a vehicle when the customer’s dog ran into the road while off their lead.

Data from the Pet Food Manufacturers’ Association suggests 3.2 million households in the UK have acquired a pet since the start of the pandemic and there are now more than 12 million dogs in the UK.

Mark Airey, commercial director, insurance at Tesco Bank, said: “Dogs are part of more and more families and the prospect of being able to take them on holiday will be an appealing one for those planning a well-earned staycation this summer.

“However, even the best-behaved dog can cause accidental damage, particularly if they are in an unfamiliar environment, and we want to help our customers avoid the stress of an unexpected bill.

“Pet insurance offers cover against a range of events and it’s important that customers research and choose the policy that is right for them and their pet.”