When you live with a bearded dragon, you get used to their big personalities and quirky habits. Toothless is no exception. He’s turning nine next year. He loves cuddles, wanders around the house when he feels like exploring, and reacts instantly when he hears “num num” because he knows his worms are coming. According to his owner, Natalie, he’s a total mummy’s boy who doesn’t like to stray too far when he’s outdoors.
But as Toothless has gotten older, he’s had a few health scares that reminded Natalie how important it is to be prepared.
A sudden parasite infection
Not long after Natalie adopted him, Toothless suddenly became quiet and stopped feeding. He didn’t look himself, and she knew something was wrong. Once she found an exotic vet she trusted, Toothless was admitted for treatment.
“Toothless had parasites [and] he spent five days in vet hospital” Natalie says. Eventually, Toothless was sent home with two medications, one painkiller and one antibiotic, and luckily made a full recovery.
The relief came with a tough reality, though. The bill was over £400.
A claim that made life easier
Natalie contacted ExoticDirect to make a claim, and the process turned out to be much easier than she expected.
“They were so compassionate on the phone,” she says. Natalie printed the claim form, filled out her section, and had the vet complete theirs before sending it off. She received confirmation quickly that the form had been received, followed by another message confirming the amount that would be reimbursed.
And just like that, the money arrived. “Within 10 days I received money in the bank.” She added, “As a single parent this would have been a major decrease in my monthly income so I can’t thank everyone enough.”
Another scare with breathing difficulties
A few months later, Toothless began having breathing issues. He was wheezing, struggling a bit, and clearly uncomfortable. This time he didn’t need to stay in overnight, but he went home with medication and a strict two-week treatment plan. The bill still came to £130, and Natalie submitted another claim.
She followed the same process again and the outcome was just as smooth. The claim was quick and easy, and the payment arrived fast, taking a huge weight off her shoulders and easing so much of the stress.
Thankfully, Toothless bounced back once more. He’s now bright, cuddly, and very much himself again, even if his appetite took a little extra time to fully return.
Why pet insurance matters
After going through two health scares with Toothless, Natalie strongly recommends pet insurance for anyone with pets, especially in case of unexpected health issues.
“I would advise anyone to get pet insurance in case anything happens. This was not anyone’s fault, but like humans, animals get sick and accidents happen. Unfortunately, for the small monthly price and the peace of mind it brings, it’s worth it…”
Having cover meant she didn’t have to worry about unexpected costs during both of Toothless’ health scares, and she believes the reassurance it provides is worth every penny.
Toothless today
Toothless may be getting older, but he’s still enjoying life. He’s basking in the sun, exploring the house, and cuddling up with Natalie.
“He is absolutely amazing,” Natalie says. “I love him so much… I can’t imagine life without him.”
