Direct Line launches 'k9 cafe' with popular tv celebrity chef

• Four films to showcase a range of pet recipes for owners to cook at home
• One in five pet owners worry about whether they are feeding their dogs the right things
• A third of dog owners are concerned about their pets’ diets
   

Direct Line Pet Insurance has teamed up with a TV celebrity chef and vet of the year, Marc Abraham, to launch four brand new cooking films with a twist. 

The four videos see the duo turning their hands to some canine cordon bleu, to showcase a range of expertly-crafted recipes for dog owners and their dogs. The show’s very own four-legged experts are then invited to sample the results once the recipe is complete.

Dog–related topics such as best practice and harmful food types are discussed in the films, giving owners the opportunity to learn about their dog’s nutritional needs whilst promoting responsible dog ownership.

This more pawsitive take on dog nutrition, comes as new research1published by Direct Line Pet Insurance reveals that one in five pet owners worry about whether they are feeding their dogs the right things.

A third of those surveyed (31 per cent) were concerned about their dog’s diet, 68 per cent of whom were worried their pets were not getting the right nutrition. With many foods often associated with good health for humans such as raisins, grapes or onions being potentially lethal to dogs, ‘K9 Cafe’ educates dog owners on exactly what they should and shouldn’t feed their pets.

Vet and Animal Nutritionist Marc Abraham, commented: “It’s very important that pet owners pay attention to their dog’s health needs, particularly with regards to nutrition. Owners may think they’re being kind giving their dog leftovers, but this could have a detrimental impact on their pet’s health if the wrong foods are given. ‘K9 Cafe’ will provide an excellent opportunity for owners to learn about their dog’s dietary requirements to make sure their pet is happy and healthy.”

Edward Barclay, head of pet insurance at Direct Line, commented: “We receive claims for so many cases of animals suffering from toxic ingestion. Dogs are very much an important member of the family, but foods that are a treat or even healthy to humans, can be very harmful, even lethal to our furry friends. Working with the pair, we hope dog owners up and down the country cook and share these delicious recipes, without it ending in a trip to the vets.”

ENDS

Notes to Editors:

1 Dog Nutrition market research completed by Petbuzz in February 2014 amongst 1,207 pet owners.
 

For further information please contact:

Claire Foster

Direct Line

claire.foster@directlinegroup.co.uk  
0165 183 1672

07900 217 264
 

Timi Merriman-Johnson

Citigate Dewe Rogerson

timi.merriman-johnson@citigatedr.co.uk

0207 282 1092
 

Direct Line

Started in 1985, Direct Line became the first UK insurance company to use the telephone as its main channel of communication. It provides motor, home, travel and pet insurance cover direct to customers by phone or on-line.

Direct Line general insurance policies are underwritten by U K Insurance Limited, Registered office: The Wharf, Neville Street, Leeds LS1 4AZ. Registered in England No 1179980. U K Insurance Limited is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority.

Direct Line and UK Insurance limited are both part of Direct Line Insurance Group plc.

Customers can find out more about Direct Line products or get a quote by calling 0845 300 7838 or visiting www.directline.com