If you're looking to cover your pets under your auto insurance policy, Progressive is no longer your only choice.

According to the Insurance Information Institute, there are at least three major insurance carriers now offering coverage for pets that are killed or injured in car accidents (while they're in the car). The coverage rages from $500 to $1,000.

In 2007, Progressive, the fourth-largest insurer in the US, became the first to provide pet clauses in their auto policies. According to company spokesperson Miriam Deitcher, "If your dog or cat is injured in an accident, we will pay your vet bills up to $1,000."

Deitcher also said that Progressive's pet coverage, which was increased from $500 to $1,000 this year and includes a $1,000 death benefit, is a standard part of their collision coverage. It applies in all states except North Carolina and New Hampshire, for legal reasons. Deitcher added, "We know how much our customers love their dogs and cats. We feel the same."

In addition to Progressive, Farmers Insurance covers pets hurt in crashes as well.

Why is pet coverage important? Data from the Federal Highway Administration and the American Veterinary Medical Association says there are almost 200 million licensed drivers in the US, and that there are also 72 million dogs and 82 million cats.

Loretta Worters of the Insurance Institute, in New York, elaborates. "It's a real niche market. People love their pets, so for some of these companies it's a new issue to address." She also said that with an increase in pet-friendly hotels, more dogs and cats are likely to be taken along on vacation.

Pet coverage also serves as an incentive to retain or recruit new policy holders. Brian Miller, a graphic designer in Pittsburgh, PA, said he was considering leaving Progressive until he found out about their pet coverage. "That was what kept me ... to be a loyal customer to them," said the New Castle resident and sheltie owner.

Adam Goldfarb of the Humane Society of the United States also commented on pet coverage, explaining that while $1,000 wouldn't cover all of a vet bill after a serious crash, "I think it's good that they are doing it ... and recognizing that pets are part of the family and need protection, too."