Today Australia’s first pet insurance company to provide protection, support and prevention in one insurance premium launched, Potiki is pledging to make pet ownership more affordable and hassle-free while avoiding the shock of hefty bills and harrowing life and death decisions.

The company has put together what they are calling Australia’s top insurance offer, covering what most rivals don’t include but many pet owners need, such as the cost of two cruciate ligament surgeries, hip joint surgery and dental illness cover.

Potiki’s policies provide lifetime cover from the age of eight weeks and include ‘perks’ up to $599 in total value – essential preventative health products such as tick and flea treatments up to $400 in value every year in addition to the purchased policy, as well as a 24/7 vet assistance service called VetChat, valued at $199 per year.

General Manager, Greg Mattes, said Potiki was established in response to the boom in pet ownership during the COVID pandemic and the fact that most pet owners do not take out insurance for their furry friends.

“The word Potiki is Maori, and it means pet and youngest in the family, and more often than not, the fur baby is the youngest one in the family,” Mr Mattes said.

“Unfortunately, most pet owners are unprepared for the unexpected when it comes to their furry family members, such as an accident or a serious illness.

“Only 13% of Australian pets are insured, which means owners can face a stark choice of breaking the bank or euthanising a pet if their dog or cat is bitten by a snake or is diagnosed with cancer and they are hit with a vet bill for thousands of dollars.”

Mr Mattes said as well as the potential for an unexpected large vet bill in the event of an accident, pet ownership can cost an average of $2,000 a year, with regular visits to the vet for treatments and check-ups part of that responsibility to the animal.

“At Potiki, we believe it makes sense to reward pet owners with extras that help them with everyday pet needs,” he said.

“We have done exactly that by offering non-insurance products alongside the pet insurance policy that a pet might need, such as flea and tick treatments or worming tablets. We believe this innovation provides a more holistic and innovative approach for pet owners. Our policyholders also have the benefit of contacting a vet for assistance 24/7 with VetChat provided with their cover to get immediate assistance with their pet’s condition.”

Mr Mattes said Potiki offers up to $30,000 in coverage per year, including optional dental treatment, along with $599 in Potiki Pet Perks with a choice of excess. 

“Potiki’s mission is to enable every pet parent to care for their fur babies equally, helping ensure the pets are healthy and well through the Potiki Perks personalised care packs and health essentials that proactively support pet health while taking the risk out of unexpected vet bills,” he said.