Patsy Bloom, the founder of pet insurers Petplan and the Petplan Charitable Trust, has been made an honorary associate of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons — the highest honour for a non-member. Ms Bloom, 67, was recognised for her support across the veterinary profession.

She tells People: “It’s an unbelievable recognition from your peer group. It’s a great compliment to the company and the trust.”

Ms Bloom co-founded Petplan with David Simpson in 1976. She recalls: “I had a sick dog but the veterinary fees were too expensive. Petplan started as a hobby, but is now the foundation for the whole of the pet-insurance industry in the UK.”

The duo sold the business in 1996 but remain actively involved in helping the veterinary profession through the Petplan Charitable Trust, which they established in 1994. Since its foundation, the trust has made grants and donation of more than £5 million. Ms Bloom is joint chair of Jewish Care’s charity bridge day. She is a member of the West London Synagogue on Upper Berkeley Street.