The company offers the world’s first preventive pet insurance ecosystem and is nearing 100,000 customers, with an annual growth rate of nearly 300%.
Launched by co-founder and CEO Hedda Båverud Olsson, who was inspired to start Lassie by her mother, a veterinarian, Lassie is targeting France, a country with over 17 million dogs and cats. With a local team already established, Lassie is set to continue its recruitment efforts in France.
“Our four-legged family members are some of the most valuable parts of our lives – they provide love, companionship and happiness. In return, we want to ensure that they have long, happy, and most importantly, healthy lives. This is what we set out to do with Lassie and by expanding to France we are now taking the next step to do this at a pan-European Pet Health Platform,” Olsson said.
The company recently secured €23 million in a Series B funding round led by Balderton Capital, bringing its total funding to €36.5 million. This funding will support Lassie’s efforts to scale its preventive pet insurance model in France.
In France, 53% of households own at least one dog or cat, and pet owners spend an average of 1,224€ per year on their pets. However, the rising cost of veterinary care, such as a 500€ operation for a fracture, often poses a financial challenge. Lassie aims to address this by offering pet insurance that not only covers costs but also encourages preventive care through courses and advice, resulting in reduced prices for customers.
Lassie’s model has driven significant growth, covering over 400 dog breeds and 200 cat breeds. With the expansion into France, Lassie continues to build on its mission to provide preventive pet insurance across Europe.