Based on a study by the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, dog bites cause over 800,000 injuries requiring immediate medical attention each year in the U.S. If your dog bites someone, you can be held legally liable. Fortunately, this loss is normally covered under your homeowner's policy. But, what if you can take steps to HELP PREVENT or reduce the chances of dog bites?

Ponder these suggestions:

• Carefully consider the breed when choosing a dog since some breeds can be more aggressive than others. A veterinarian can help you decide which breeds best suit your lifestyle. Also note: some insurers may not insure all breeds, so check your insurance policy for limitations.
  
• You may want to spay or neuter you dog since this often decreases aggressive tendencies.
• Socialize your dog from an early age to encourage and foster appropriate behavior.
  
• Never leave dogs alone with small children.
• Avoid playing aggressive games like tug-of-war with your puppy or dog.
• Do not place your dog in a situation where it can be teased or feel threatened.
• Train your dog to obey commands.

Another loss exposure to consider.
You may face liability claims if your dog gets out in the road and causes or contributes to an auto accident. Homeowners can be sued for violation of leash ordinances by allowing their dog to "run at large." Use a well-maintained and sturdy fence or other safeguards to reduce this exposure.

If your dog is like Connecticut Insurance Exchange's Special Agent Norma, they'll eat just about anything. Honestly, sometimes we think she is really a goat in disguise!
Here's a helpful chart we found that shows what is OK (and NOT OK) to give your dog...

If your pet eats anything they shouldn't, then keep a close eye on them and seek professional help.

Related links: Affordable pet insurance

If you're like us, you love your pet and would do all you can if they became ill or injured. Unfortunately, unexpected vet bills can really break your budget.

Did you know…
Every six seconds a pet parent is faced with a vet bill over $3,000.* In fact, something as simple as an upset stomach costs an average of $500 to treat! You can’t predict your pet’s health, but pet insurance can help you plan for it!
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Pet insurance takes the worry out of paying for the care your pets need. That's why Connecticut Insurance Exchange is proud to offer affordable pet insurance.

Our Flexible Pet Insurance Options Allow You to Get the Protection That's Right for You and Your Best Friend

• YOU pick the plan that right for YOU
• Covers vet expenses from $500 to $5,000,000
• Deductibles from $100 to $2,500
• Reimbursement options of 70%, 80% or 90%

Contact your Connecticut Insurance Exchange agent about our affordable pet insurance today and ask about a 10% discount! 860 666-5443 or [email protected]

*Source: 2014 PetPlan claims data.

Pet Safety Tips
Driving with Fluffy on your lap may look cute but is incredibly dangerous to you, your pet, and potentially other drivers on the road. If your pet will not lay down safely in the backseat, invest in a harness, crate or other means to keep everyone safe!

As the weather heats up, remember don't leave your pets unattended in a car! When the outside temperature is 70 degrees, a car can heat up to 89 degrees in just 10 minutes, and to 104 in 30 minutes leading to heat stroke, or worse!

Meet the Connecticut Insurance Exchange Pet Family!