Animal lovers are being given the opportunity to vote for the most bizarre pet insurance claims thanks to a new poll.

Veterinary Pet Insurance (VPI) recently published details of unusual incidences involving animals that led to owners seeking medical treatment for their furry friends.

Visitors to the firm's website can vote for the pet they feel deserves the Hambone Award, which was first presented to a pooch who ate a leg of meat while he was trapped in a fridge.

Making this year's list is spaniel Crawford, who was treated for poisoning after swallowing a gel attachment from his owner's bra.

Another injured pet vying for the prize is border collie Ranger, who accidentally collided with the backend of a cow, while cat Scooter received surgery after a needle and thread became lodged in her tongue for weeks.

Carol McConnell, chief veterinary medical officer for VPI, said: "Our intent with the Hambone Award is to let pet owners know just how unexpected the unexpected can be."

Meanwhile, German shepherd Libby needed medical attention recently after she swallowed 28 golf balls.