The Hartville Group, Inc., which with its subsidiary Petsmarketing Insurance.com Agency, Inc. is one of the largest and oldest pet insurance providers in the US, has announced new plans that will expand coverage in the ASPCA Pet Health Insurance program to include 90% reimbursement of eligible veterinary expenses, treatments for hereditary and congenital conditions, and higher per-incident limits, among other new benefits.

To learn more about the new plans and to read the entire press release, please click here.

Photo Friday is a weekly column that showcases photos we receive from loving ASPCA Pet Health Insurance customers of their pets. If you want to see your pet featured, please email me!

It’s exciting to bring home a new pet for the holidays, but of course it’s a big responsibility too. To help protect all of the furry members in your family, we offer a 10% multiple pet discount to current ASPCA Pet Health Insurance customers. Just call 1-866-204-6764 to add a new pet to your plan.  To learn more about ASPCA Pet Health Insurance, visit our website.

“I want to thank you for providing fast and friendly service. We have 5 pets and pay a very reasonable monthly fee because we can opt for the plan that we think fits our needs and budget best. Every time I’ve called, your representatives have been kind and compassionate. This has never been as true as when I had to call to cancel the policy for our dog who did not survive cancer. The fact that your employees understand the stress that accompanies pet emergencies means a lot to me too.”

-Carla G., Harrisburg, PA

Lots of people resolve to get in shape in the New Year, but let’s not forget our furry companions! Not only do they need exercise, they can make fun workout buddies too. We’ve got some ideas to burn calories with your pet plus some indoor games to beat the winter blues.

Shape Up with Your Pet
Before you start, you may want to consult with your veterinarian or schedule a routine exam, especially if your pet hasn’t been very active. If you have our Level 3 or 4 plan, a yearly check-up is covered.

Get Fit with Fido
The snow may be falling outside, but there are still plenty of ways to exercise inside with your dog. Get your heart rates up by running around the house together using a toy or ball as motivation. For an upper body work out, try an energetic game of tug-of-war.

Aerobicize with Kitty
Interactive games can get you and your cat moving. Try attaching a string to your belt loop and encourage your cat to chase you from room to room. To work your arms, tie a cat toy securely to a ruler and move it up and down for your cat to jump at.

Be careful your pet doesn’t chew apart and swallow any toys or strings after you’re done. But remember, if an accident does happen, we can help you manage the veterinary bills.

The snow and cold have arrived. If you are looking for fun winter activities for you and your pet, these ideas will chase Old Man Winter away:

• Create a pet playground with discarded gift boxes and wrapping paper.
• Play hide and seek with your pet by hiding treats around the house.
• Practice a new trick, like speaking, shaking hands, or rolling over.
• Give your pet a treat dispensing toy to knock around the house.
• Throw a small ball across the room for a good old fashioned game of fetch.

And don’t forget one of the best ways to warm up on a cold day – a good, long cuddle with your furry friend.

Photo Friday is a weekly column that showcases photos we receive from loving ASPCA Pet Health Insurance customers of their pets. If you want to see your pet featured, please email me!

If you resolved to quit smoking this year, you’re also doing something great for your pet’s health! Second hand smoke can irritate your pet’s nose and sinuses, and has been linked to cancer in pets. Learn more at the ASPCA’s blog.

Did you resolve to get more exercise in 2012? Don’t forget your pet! Regular physical activity can help you and your pet slim down, but that’s not all. It can build muscle and bone, increase circulation, aid digestion, improve sleep, and even boost your moods.

Before starting a new exercise routine for your pet, you may want to consult with your
veterinarian or schedule a check-up. If you have our Level 3 or 4 plan, a yearly exam is
covered.

Here are some suggestions to burn calories with your furry friend:

For dogs…
It may be chilly this month, but you can still bundle up and enjoy a brisk walk or run with your dog, or take a hike in the woods where trees can protect you from the wind. Be careful of slippery ice and snow, and brush your pup off when you get home to help avoid frostbite.

If you have trouble getting your dog to go outside when it’s cold, these tips from the ASPCA might help.

For cats…
The ASPCA doesn’t recommend letting your kitty outside in the winter, but there are plenty of ways to exercise together indoors. Pretty much any interactive toy will get your cat jumping around – just be sure to join in the fun and get your heart rating going as well.