Many dog owners could be putting themselves at financial risk by failing to take out pet insurance for their pooches, a survey has found. According to Sainsbury's Finance, the popular pursuits of catching sticks and swimming in ponds could be more dangerous than first thought.

"Dogs do need to be able to run around, but simple steps can be taken to reduce the chances of them being injured or picking up an illness," stressed Lucy Hunter, Sainsbury's Pet Insurance manager. She said that keeping dogs away from ponds - or using a rubber toy as opposed to a stick when playing catch - can prove worthwhile.

These comments echo the sentiments of M&S Money, which warned that the summer months can prove hazardous for four-legged friends. It referred to a number of calls received by Vetfone, showing that problems really can strike at the strangest times.

For example, a six-month-old English Bull Terrier swallowed a large frog while out walking with his owner and a dog from Staffordshire who ate a packet of sausages intended for the family BBQ.

Analysis of data from Sainsbury's shows that insurers settle around 25,800 pet insurance claims worth around £4.92 million every year. Many of these are related to lacerations, which often occur when chasing and catching sticks.

Ponds, on the other hand, can expose dogs to poisonous algae, which can likewise lead to problems such as vomiting and diarrhoea.

Ms Hunter emphasised the importance of taking out pet insurance, as "unforeseen ailments and resulting veterinary care should be covered". A trip to the vet for a relatively simple procedure could set someone back as much as £240, Sainsbury's Finance claimed, which could easily be covered by taking out the necessary insurance. This need not be expensive and the cheapest deal can be found by shopping around and looking for the policies with the widest range of benefits.