Ambitious masticator Hector, a Great Dane owned by Hertfordshire resident Pamela Panting, has highlighted the need for
pet insurance after swallowing a two-foot stick.
Ms Panting first suspected a problem when the canine refused his breakfast, although vets needed to insert a camera down Hector's throat to be certain of the cause.
She told the Telegraph that, surprisingly, he had still managed to eat his dinner the night before.
Provider Asda Financial Services has pointed out that the life-saving medical procedure necessary to remove the branch cost in the region of £2,000, while the average cost of an operation on a dog stands at £1,312.
As such, the group urged owners to consider monthly cover to protect themselves against the costs of X-rays, dental treatment and surgery.
Gideon Ingham, head of insurance at Asda, commented: "The cost of owning pets is often much more expensive than people think For just a small monthly premium, owners can protect themselves from any unforeseen costs and barking mad vets' fees."
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pet insurance cover for those looking for peace of mind for their animals.