Brea, Calif. (Nov. 2, 2006) --- Veterinary Pet Insurance (VPI) launched Pet Cancer Awareness Month in November 2005 to call attention to the nation’s number one killer of dogs and cats. The company is continuing its campaign of education and philanthropy and has added an additional benefactor to this year’s program. Visitors to petinsurance.com are asked to help in the fight against pet cancer by purchasing limited-edition Pet Cancer Awareness dog collars and pink magnetic paws with all proceeds going directly to the Animal Cancer Foundation and the National Canine Cancer Foundation, respectively.

“VPI has tracked the medical claims of more than a million of our nation’s pets, which gives us very reliable data on the incidences of cancer and other serious illnesses,” said Carol McConnell, DVM, director of veterinary relations for VPI. “Combined cancer claims were the fourth-highest in frequency last year, which compelled VPI to educate the public about pet cancer detection and treatment, while simultaneously raising money towards a cure.”

VPI’s Pet Cancer Awareness collars, tan-banded with a gold buckle and sprinkled with lavender ‘awareness’ ribbons, are symbolic indicators of recognition for all pets stricken with the leading killer of dogs and cats. “It’s a special way for both pets and their caregivers to demonstrate support,” McConnell added. Supporters can also purchase pink magnetic paws, which they can place on their car, at home or at work to help spread awareness of the cancer risks in pets.

VPI claims data from the year prior reveals that the most common cancers in dogs were lymphosarcoma (a cancer affecting the lymph node system), skin tumors and osteogenic sarcoma (bone cancer). The data also suggests that cats similarly suffer from lympohsarcoma and skin tumors. The sum total for canine and feline cancer-related claims in 2005 was just shy of 20,000.

McConnell emphasizes the importance of early detection by monitoring your pet for clinical signs of cancer. “It’s necessary for pet owners to take their furry family members to their veterinarian for annual checkups and to regularly examine their pet for warning signs. Lumps and bumps; sores that don’t heal; weight loss; loss of appetite; and exercise intolerance are possible signs of the onset of cancer.”

Pet insurance can help defray veterinary costs for testing and treatments (chemotherapy, surgery, etc.) should their pet develop cancer. “VPI Pet Insurance medical plans cover almost all cancers, providing pet owners with peace of mind that they have the ability to afford surgery, chemotherapy or radiation for their pet,” explains McConnell.

Pet caregivers can find more information on the early warning signs of cancer in pets and how pet insurance can help protect against rising veterinary costs by visiting: petinsurance.com/cancer.