SPRING 2013 !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! VOLUME 10, ISSUE 1 ... · Have a Shih Tzu? Be Informed. Be Prepared. Though everyday and ongoing health ailments might seem run-of-the-mill,

THENewsletter

SPRING 2013 VOLUME 10, ISSUE 1

Rescue StoriesOur Favorite Facebook Posts

Featured Breed Shih Tzu

One Policyholder’s Story

VPI Helped Save Our Puppy’s Eye

The Road to RescueVPI Policyholder Leads the Way

Hereta CervantesPets: Bella and Ozzy

VPI policyholder since 2006

When it comes to animal rescue, Hereta Cervantes knows what it means to go the extra mile. A VPI policyholder and pet parent to Boston terriers Bella and Ozzy, Hereta first started volunteering for homeless dogs by donating some of the profits from sales of her handmade candles to rescue organization Boston Buddies. But once she’d assisted with her first shelter rescue—an ill and frightened Boston she named Wyatt—she knew that helping dogs was her calling, and she was inspired to do so much more.

Special shelter pup inspires“When I met with another volunteer to pick up Wyatt and transport him to the animal hospital Boston Buddies uses for all their rescues, I was heartbroken,” Hereta remembers. In addition to a case of mange and more than 200 ticks from his time on the streets and in the brutal conditions of the shelter, Wyatt had a heart murmur and was nearly blind.

“[He] became my special little boy,” Hereta says. “I got emotionally attached to him and started working to raise money for him.”

Thanks to Hereta’s love and support, along with a wonderful foster family

and the care of Boston Buddies, Wyatt made an amazing recovery and even regained his eyesight after surgery.

“Because of Wyatt, I realized that with hard work I could raise funds to help all the dogs that come in sick,” Hereta says. “He will always be my first rescue experience and that is special.”

Fundraising feverLooking for a way to increase her involvement, Hereta decided to try

some independent fundraising and began writing letters to businesses asking them to donate to Boston Buddies.

Hereta’s persistence paid o!, and donations for Boston Buddies started coming in. In addition to writing letters, she began

volunteering regularly as a rescue worker, picking dogs up from shelters on Boston Buddies’ behalf and selling food at her workplace to raise money for the dogs in greatest need of medical help.

VPI® Pet Insurance NewsletterVPI® Pet Insurance Newsletter

The Road to Rescue Dedicated VPI Policyholder Leads the Way for Dogs in Need

Looking for opportunities to volunteer for pets in need? Try starting at your local animal shelter—they’re often understa!ed and overwhelmed, and rely on volunteers to help things run smoothly.

If you have a soft spot for a particular breed, try going online to search for breed-specific rescues in your area. For example, you can type “Labrador retriever rescues in Los Angeles” into your search engine to see a number of groups dedicated to helping loveable Labs in L.A.

And although most rescues welcome monetary donations, be sure to research any group you’re thinking of

giving money to. Look for non-profits with 501(c)(3) status, which means they’re recognized as a charitable organization by the Internal Revenue Service.

Just remember: When it comes to helping pets in need, no action, donation or deed is too small. The lives you help save or improve will be your greatest reward.

Give a Little,Get a Lot: Be a Volunteer

Thinking about rescuing a pet? Visit petinsurance.com/healthzone for helpful articles.

Soon, Boston Buddies’ board of directors recognized Hereta’s commitment and asked her to serve as the group’s team captain for a fundraising walk. Hereta agreed, and went one step further: she organized a successful Facebook auction that raised $5,000 in a single event. Now, she runs three Facebook auctions per year for Boston Buddies—and last year, she became the organization’s seventh board member and its o"cial fundraising coordinator.

A voice for the voicelessAlthough Hereta works hard for Boston Buddies, that isn’t the end of her dedication to dogs. She donates to numerous rescue groups and continues to raise funds by selling food, candles and notecards; her candles are so popular that she’s become a licensed business owner due to the volume of orders.

While some might think she devotes too much time and energy to animal rescue, Hereta doesn’t agree.

“Friends tell me I am always doing too much,” she says. “But I reply to them, ‘If I don’t do it, then who will? How will we raise funds for these dogs that need our help?’ Dogs don’t have a voice [so] I need to be their voice—they need to be heard.”

Boston Buddies, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing and rehoming Boston terriers and Boston terrier mixes. Donations accepted via bostonbuddies.org or by mail at Boston Buddies, Inc., 19051 Goldenwest St. #106-145, Huntington Beach, CA 92648. Candles available for purchase at erethascandles.com.

“Friends tell me I am always doing too much. But I reply to them,

‘If I don’t do it, then who will? How will we raise funds for these dogs

that need our help?’ Dogs don’t have a voice [so]

I need to be their voice—they need to be heard.”

MarYanana McNanaI rescued Kodo and Podo (AKA Smokey and Bandit) in December 2011 from the Hudson Valley Ferret Rescue.

Michele Morgan WelchTrixi and Tuxedo—Sister and Brother. It was love at first sight. They rescued us after losing our kitty who was almost 18 years old.

Aimée Ponnwitz FinleyWe adopted JoJo from North Shore Animal League in July 2012 for my birthday. They said they had just brought him up from Tennessee. He was only 10 weeks old. Just a few weeks prior we had lost our dog of 12 years.

Follow us on Facebook (facebook.com/veterinarypetinsurance) and look for the next newsletter post. Your photo and story might be included in the next edition of The Companion!

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Marion Satterthwaite Ferguson is my rescued Cairn Terrier. He makes me laugh with his antics and he is very smart and full of dog joy.

Cindy SerikakuThis is Arnie, age 3, adopted from PAWS Chicago. The greatest

“reward” in being a pet parent is developing a relationship with the pet—getting “in sync” with each other—having the pet come to trust you—learning to interpret his looks, sounds, actions—trying to see how he views the world.

AngelShyanne BlueThis is my rescue kitty Cassie. We found her walking on the highway along the median strip in October of last year. I was crawling on my stomach for over a half an hour trying to catch her. She wasn’t too happy about it either. It was so worth it though. She’s a big member of the family now.

Who Rescued Whom? Thumbs up if you have a rescue pet at home! Check out some of our favorite responses on Facebook from pet parents telling the world how rewarding it is to rescue a pet.

Shih Tzu

Most Unusual Names for Shih Tzus*

1. Kung Fu Seabolt2. Professor Chumley Drost3. Shebeweebee4. Tamagochi Fergie5. Teaspoon

Featured Breed:

Shih Tzu Conditions by the NumbersBreakdown of shih tzu claims received by VPI

Despite their strong, fiesty personalities, shih tzus tend to have sensitive stomachs. So it comes as no surprise that 25% of the claims filed by shih tzu owners are for digestive ailments.


Top 5 Names for Shih Tzus*

1. Bella2. Gizmo3. Max4. Coco5. Chloe

*Disease/Condition rankings are based on pet’s breed and age. Cost estimates are for a pet of comparable size and age, treated by a veterinarian in the state of California. The actual Cost of Care for your pet may vary. The most common Diseases or Conditions for your pet were determined through a review of VPI Pet Insurance national claim data. We obtained this information from claimed amounts associated with a Primary Diagnosis for pets of the same species, breed, and age group as your pet. We used data from claims that were: (1) submitted under VPI Pet Insurance policies with policy terms ending between July 1, 2005, and June 30, 2008, and (2) entered into our system before November 1, 2008. We counted all claims made under each Diagnosis Code during each policy term as a single event. We combined all events for each Diagnosis Code, breed, and age group, and sorted the data to determine the top ten Diseases or Conditions for each grouping. We only considered policies covering pets aged nine years or less at the beginning of the policy term. We did not include data involving rare canine and feline breeds.

Want to know more about shih tzus?Visit petinsurance.com/healthzone

Digestive Other (Endocrine, Reproductive, Nasal Cavity, Urinary)

Musculoskeletal/FracturesEar/EyeInfectious Disease/Blood/ChemicalDermatologicalRespiratory/CardiovascularOral/SalivaryNeurological

Have a Shih Tzu? Be Informed. Be Prepared.Though everyday and ongoing health ailments might seem run-of-the-mill, the cost to treat them is anything but—especially when the problems become chronic or recurring. Our data for shih tzus shows the most common conditions claimed per lifestage along with their average treatment costs.*

Holy Lion DogsAncestors of the modern shih tzu originated in Tibet as early as the seventh century. They were treasured as holy dogs and later were favored as gifts to Chinese royalty.

Bred to resemble lions by Chinese and Tibetan Buddhists, the name “shih tzu” roughly translates to “lion” in Chinese.

*From the VPI policyholder database

Allergy-Related Skin Problems

Ear Infection

Upset Stomach/Vomiting

Bladder Infection

Inflamed Intestines/Diarrhea

Benign Skin Growth

Tooth Extraction from Infection

$160 $200 $180

$140 $160 $160

$300 $370 $340

$340

$150

$380 $400

$440

PUPPY ADULT SENIOR

Fortunately, Michelle and Anthony had the foresight to protect Nico with a VPI policy—thanks to a referral from a caring friend.

Who referred you to VPI?My friend Raychelle LeBlanc, who is also a VPI policyholder.

How has VPI helped you carefor Nico?While we were waiting in line to check out at the local pet store, a cat sauntered up to Nico and swiped him across his left eye. Nico let out a yelp that I’d never heard before, so I knew something was terribly wrong.

We arrived at the emergency room and found out that it was worse than we thought: Nico was in danger of losing his eye. The emergency room vet called ahead to another hospital that had an eye surgeon on duty. We rushed him to the second hospital, and they took him immediately into surgery.

Fast forward to now, he’s 15 months old, and about 110 pounds! His eye has healed up nicely, thanks to the quick action of everyone involved. We submitted our claim to VPI, and were so surprised that there weren’t any hassles whatsoever!

If someone were looking for pet insurance, what advice would you give?I would recommend this insurance to anyone with a pet. Our pets are our children. You wouldn’t not have medical insurance on your kids, would you? The peace of mind is priceless! We are customers for as long as we own pets.

Have you thanked your referrer? If so, what did he or she say in reaction to Nico’s story?Yes, I thanked her. She was sad about the accident, but rejoiced with me when I told her how helpful VPI was with our claim.

The Kitchens familyVPI policyholders since 2012

One Policyholder’s Story: VPI Helped Save Our Puppy’s Eye

As any pet parent can attest, accidents can happen anytime and anywhere, to any pet. Michelle Kitchens and her husband, Anthony, learned that the hard way when their 3-month-old dog, Nico, was attacked while they were standing in line to buy chew toys at the pet store.

VPI® Pet Insurance Newsletter

“I can certainly attest to how great VPI Pet Insurance is.. .Zoe is somewhat of an adventurist,” says Raychelle with a laugh.

A round of applause to VPI policyholder and referral hero of the month Raychelle LeBlanc and her dog, Zoe. Thanks to Raychelle’s referral, Nico was protected by VPI when he needed it most.

Referral Hero of the Month—

You Could Be Next!

Or someone with a young puppy like Nico? Be a hero—tell them how VPI can help with vet bills. We’ve got a fun new way to spread the word: Visit petinsurance.com/referral to send a note about VPI.

Know someone with an adventurous pet like Zoe?


The LeBlanc familyVPI policyholders since 2008


Puppy Stairs 10% DiscountPuppy Stairs are made from the highest quality materials and are built to last for the life of your pet. Our stairs and ramps have washable, removable covers and are crafted from the finest high-density foam. Puppy Stairs prevent injuries from jumping for all ages and give senior pets their independence back to reach their favorite places. For phone and online orders, use coupon code: Veterinary Pet Insurance.

10% discount excludes special sale items.

For even more o!ers, please visit www.petinsurance.com/newsletter.

Angela Boley’s Portaits 10% DiscountAngela Boley will provide hand drawn portraits of VPI policyholder pets using chalk pastels. In addition to drawing portraits of their pets, Ms. Boley will draw portraits of VPI policyholders and their family members, if requested. Once the portraits are completed, she will ship the completed portrait direct to the VPI policyholder(s). Each portrait will be chemically treated to protect it from moisture, and placed in an archival plastic sleeve to keep it safe from dust. She will provide these portrait services for VPI customers at a 10% discount o! her normal cost. VPI members can email their photos and questions to Ms. Boley athttps://www.artistsites.org/ANGELABOLEY/

FunStu!ForDogs.com 20% DiscountCome browse this frisky, friendly store for cool treats, toys, beds, apparel and more. VPI policyholders get their best discount on these upbeat, o!-beat products for you and your dog.

Visit www.FunStu!ForDogs.com and use coupon code 06VPI to save 20% on the site, even on sale items (not including shipping or tax).

Modern Dog Magazine 60% DiscountExclusive o!er for VPI Pet Insurance policyholders: get a one-year subscription to Modern Dog magazine for just $8.00! You'll save 60% o! the newsstand price. A must read for dog lovers! Get inspired with the best ideas and solutions for life with dogs. Each issue features breed profiles, budget buys, activities for you and your dog, health & wellness, dog-friendly travel destinations, rescue stories, product reviews, photo contests, giveaways and more! Modern Dog is your guide to a better bond with your dog.

Order online at www.moderndogmagazine.com/subscribe/vpi or call 800-417-6289 and mention VPI to take advantage of this very special o!er.

Policyholder PerksOur Policyholder Perks o!ers are exclusive to VPI policyholders. To take advantage of these o!ers, log on to the VPI Policyholder Portal at my.petinsurance.com and click on the Policyholder Perks link or contact the companies directly.

The Coolest Stu! for the Coolest Pets 20% DiscountMoochie & Co.® o!ers unique pet products that are functional, well made, creatively designed and o!er great value. They have the stu! pets and their parents love: durable toys, healthy treats, fun collars and leads and upscale beds and carriers.

Enjoy 20% o! your next purchase! Simply visit www.moochieandco.com and enter discount code VPI when completing your purchase. (Valid online only. Can’t be combined with other promotions or discounts.)

Discounted Products & Services

Make Sure Your Pet Is Cared for in an Emergency Did you know it can take emergency hospital sta! up to 6 HOURS to notify someone if you were to su!er a medical emergency? That could mean hours more before your pet and other responsibilities were taken care of.

My Notification Service provides you peace of mind by notifying up to 9 contacts to care for your pet, kids, etc. and sending your vital medical info to the hospital.

VPI policyholders will receive 40% o! any subscription. Visit www.mynotify1.com and use promo code: VPI.

40% Discount

17% Off on Orders $65+

Pet Food and More… Delivered to Your Door! Choose from the largest selection of top-quality pet foods (148+ brands!), pet meds, treats, toys, beds, bowls, and everything else your pet could possibly need. Delivered to your door – on your schedule.

Visit www.petfooddirect.com and use Promo Code: PETFOODDIRECT17. Excludes vet diet, Rx, and free shipping items. O!er valid through 1/1/2014.

Enchanted Forest Press 25% Discount“Just One More Day ~ A Dog Lovers Guide to Quality of Life and Healing from Pet Loss,” by Award-winning author Geo!rey Bain.

This compassionately informative book gives comfort and healing during a most di"cult time. It has heart-warming stories, and expert advice and guidance from professionals to assess quality of life, to know when it’s time to say goodbye, and to heal from the loss. Because truly, all we really want is Just One More Day with our best friend —our dog. To receive the 25% discount (with free shipping), please call 949-702-0188 and mention VPI.

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Visit my.petinsurance.com to:

To submit a claim:VPI Claims Department PO Box 2344 Brea, CA 92822-2344 Or FAX to 714-989-5600

Look for VPI OnlineDid you know VPI is on and ?

Come join thousands of other pet lovers and fans of VPI for the latest in pet news, VPI program announcements, giveaways and fun pet photos. We want to hear from you,

so be sure to share your pets’ stories and photos on our wall!

facebook.com/VeterinaryPetInsurance twitter.com/VPI

We’re Here to Help!

To speak to a Customer Care representative:800-540-2016 Monday-Friday 5:00 AM to 7:00 PM (Pacific) Saturday 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM (Pacific)

For group enrollment:877-PETS-VPI (877-738-7874) Monday-Friday 5:00 AM to 7:00 PM (Pacific) Saturday 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM (Pacific)

To enroll an additional pet or renew your policy:888-341-0789 Monday-Friday 5:00 AM to 7:00 PM (Pacific) Saturday 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM (Pacific)

Gary NeilVPI employee since 2005

Help us improve The Companion! Take a two-minute survey at petinsurance.com/companionsurvey.


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SPRING 2013 !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! VOLUME 10, ISSUE 1 ... · Have a Shih Tzu? Be Informed. Be Prepared. Though everyday and ongoing health ailments might seem run-of-the-mill,

Documents