Petplan has launched this year's Insurance Advisor Award in association with VetSurgeon.org, and is calling for nominations.

The award is to recognise the hard work and dedication that Petplan Insurance Advisors (PIAs) do to highlight the importance of insurance to pet owners so that they are protected financially.

Petplan says pet owners often look to vet staff to help them better understand veterinary procedures, treatment and medication, but they're also increasingly looking for advice about insurance, and that is why it is important that a formally trained member of staff is available to answer customer queries when it comes to pet insurance.

Petplan works with over 4,000 veterinary practices throughout the UK to promote pet insurance. These are Appointed Representative (AR) practices who receive training and certification to speak about specific insurance policies. The PIA scheme is an extension of this - AR practice staff can train to become a dedicated Pet Insurance Advisor by registering on www.petplan.co.uk/pia   

Becoming a PIA allows vet staff to earn valuable CPD points whilst developing transferable skills such as confidently promoting products and handling client objections.  

Deputy Veterinary Practice Manager Kelli Vogt, of Polsloe Veterinary Clinic in Exeter, who won the 'Petplan Insurance Advisor Award 2010', said: "The scheme is such a great programme and I recommend it to all my colleagues and anyone that will listen. It's a great link between veterinary practices and insurers and it means that we can really help pet owners have financial security should anything happen. The more pet owners are informed of the importance of pet insurance the more likely it'll become mandatory, which will allow them to always get the best possible treatment for their pet without having to worry about the financial implications."

Director of Petplan, Neil Brettell said: "We are incredibly proud to help recognise the hard work and dedication that Petplan Insurance Advisors give their customers, helping to keep them constantly informed and up-to-date. So please get your nominations in!"

To nominate your dedicated colleague for the Petplan Insurance Advisor Award, please visit www.petplan.co.uk/pia.  The PIA of the Year will receive a 16GB Ipad2 with WiFi, worth £399.

Nominations close on 9^th September and the nominees will be judged by industry professionals. The winner will be announced at the annual BVNA Congress, taking place from Friday 7th - Sunday 9th October 2011.

For information on how to become a PIA contact Vetline on 0800 316 8800 or alternatively log onto www.petplanpia.co.uk.  

To find out more about Petplan visit http://www.petplan.co.uk/

PS: Whilst you're here, take a moment to see our latest job opportunities for vets.