Brits make more travel insurance claims on behalf of their pets during the summer months, according to newly revealed statistics.

As a nation of animal lovers, we often like to travel with pets, but our four-legged friends are at a greater risk of a host of ailments in warmer climes, the figures suggest.

Supermarket giant Tesco indicates that the number of pet claims - on travel insurance and other policies - jumped six per cent between May and June last year, possibly as a direct result of the weather.

Pets are at a greater risk of sunburn and bites during sunnier weather and there is a very real risk that they can get items caught in their throats. There is also a “higher incidence of road traffic accidents”, reports Monica McCormack, spokesperson for Tesco Personal Finance.

“We really see an instance of higher claims when the sunny weather comes in and people are outside more with their dogs,” she said.

“We tend to see a higher incidence of claims, like when they get things stuck in their throat.”

She also warned that cats with sparse or white ear tips were at a greater risk of cancer in the sun and recommended applying a little bit of sunscreen.

Vet bills can be a pain in the wallet, which is why travel insurance cover for your pet is vital if you plan to travel with your cat, dog, parrot or hamster this summer.

Contributed by J.Bevan