LONDON, June 8, 2011 /PRNewswire/ --

A quarter of Britons regularly allow their pets to sleep in the same bed as a family member, according to research.

And almost one in six (16%) always shares the duvet with a furry bedtime companion.

The independent ICM poll of 2,003 people for John Lewis Insurance (http://www.johnlewis-insurance.com/) revealed that women are more likely than men to be battling for bed space with their pet (27% compared to 22% respectively).

Pets in Scotland are most likely to be sleeping on their owner's bed, with a whopping 37% of Scots admitting to sharing their bed space with their pooch or moggie, nearly double that of people in the Midlands or North England (both 20%).

Thousands of pet owners (4%) will also ensure their pet wears animal pyjamas - with those aged 25-34 twice as likely as the national average to ensure their pet has special night clothing to keep them warm while they sleep (9%).

John Brady, Head of Commercial at John Lewis Insurance, said: "Britons clearly love their cats and dogs so much, that they're increasingly willing to treat them as a member of the family and ensure they have a lifestyle they enjoy themselves. Taking out pet insurance can help give customers peace of mind and help manage any unexpected bills".

    
    Other regional stats:

    - Pets sleeping in same bed as family member (%):

    South East = 27%
    Midlands = 20%
    North England =20%
    Wales & South West = 30%
    Scotland = 37%

    - Wear night clothing, such as pyjamas (%)

    South East = 7%
    Midlands = 6%
    North England = 2%
    Wales & South West = 1%
    Scotland = 2%

Research was carried out by ICM Research (http://www.icmresearch.com/) on behalf of John Lewis Home Insurance and surveyed 2,003 UK adults from 25-27 February 2011.

About John Lewis Pet Insurance

John Lewis Pet Insurance ( http://www.johnlewis-insurance.com/homepage/pet-insurance.html) provides protection for cats and dogs. With four levels of cover for vet's fees starting from just GBP190 a year, you can choose the right amount of cover for your pet. And if they develop an ongoing condition like arthritis, we'll continue to insure your pet for as long as you renew your policy with us.

Find out more about how John Lewis Pet Insurance is with you when it matters. (http://www.johnlewis-insurance.com/homepage/pet-insurance.html)

Contact: Email: customerservice@johnlewis-insurance.com - Tel: +44(0)207-592-5236.

SOURCE John Lewis Insurance