Is Pet Insurance Right for You?

Is Pet Insurance Right for You?

For many of us, the new year brings decisions about health care. Which plan?  Maybe even which insurance provider? Pet insurance also brings the added question of do I buy it at all. For many of us when we add a new furry family member, there come these considerations. When it’s a young one like Bubba, they’re so healthy that it may not occur to us at all.

Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you’re making a decision about your beloved pet’s health based on what you can afford? What if the burden of finances could be lessened and you could make the best decision for your furbaby with a little less stress on your shoulders? Pet insurance is becoming an increasingly popular decision among pet owners who want to avoid unexpected veterinarian bills.

So how does pet insurance work? Most insurance companies for dogs and cats allow you to use your preferred (licensed) veterinarian so you shouldn’t have to worry about being ˜in network’ as is the case with most human health insurances. Typically, companies charge a monthly deductible and then cover anywhere from 70-100% of your vet bills. Unlike human health insurance, most pet insurance companies require you to pay for your pet’s services upfront and then submit a claim to them for reimbursement.

What are some factors to consider when making a decision about IF to get pet insurance and WHERE to get pet insurance?

  1. What are the coverage levels? Does the insurance include dental care, spay/neuter procedures, accidents, etc?
  2. How does the plan manage preexisting conditions?
  3. Does the insurance company have breed restrictions?
  4. Are there discounts for multiple pets on the same policy?

Pet insurance isn’t for everyone, and there’s no magic formula that will tell you if it’s right for you and your pet. Unfortunately, you can’t predict the future. Unexpected events such as accidents and illnesses happen to pets, just as they happen to people. With the many recent improvements in veterinary care, and access to skilled professionals with the most up-to-date medical equipment, pets are living longer than ever before. However, this new expertise can be expensive. Pet insurance can help to ensure that your pets have access to the best care available and live the long, healthy and happy lives that they deserve. If you’re considering pet insurance, talk to your veterinarian and do some research on your options.

Here are some resources to get you started:

A Vet’s Guide To Pet Insurance

What to Ask When Choosing a Pet Health Insurance Provider?

https://www.pet-insurance-university.com/pet_insurance_guide_lesson7.html

https://www.petmd.com/centers/insurance/evr_what_to_ask_when_choosing_a_pet_health_insurance_provider