Is pet insurance affordable and a good idea?

Pets are often very much like children when it comes to health. They injure themselves sometimes in the most unimaginable ways, and at the most inopportune times. Did you know that 40% of all vet fees are caused by unforeseen illnesses or injuries?

As technology improves, medicine is improving for pets almost as quickly as it is for people. In fact, pets are often treated for similar health conditions. A broken limb may require x-rays, possibly surgery, which includes anesthesia, splints, casts, and continued medical help. Pets get cancer, and other debilitating illnesses.

Because of the cost of pet care, for those who value their pets as members of the family, sometimes pet owners are faced with decisions about the amount of care they can afford.

Surgical procedures, or treatments for injuries, cancer treatments, etc, can run thousands of dollars.

Pet insurance can help with these costs, and eliminate the dread of having to make sometimes life and death decisions.

Unlike human health insurance, pet insurance can be surprisingly affordable. Following are some options that might pleasantly surprise you:

* Pet insurance can be purchased for as little as $10 per month

* Pet insurance is available for dogs, cats, birds, reptiles, and even exotic pets.

* Most pet insurance allows you to take your pet to any veterinarian you choose

* Most pet insurance pays you for the treatment. Your vet bills you, you pay the vet, and the insurance company reimburses you directly.

* Pet insurance can be for critical care only, or for an additional cost, can cover all care, including vaccinations and well pet check-ups.

* Most pet insurance, like human insurance, does have deductibles prior to coverage

* Some companies will exclude pre-existing conditions, and offer lower premiums if you start insuring your pet when young and healthy.

* Some companies will offer multi-pet discounts

* There is even insurance available to take care of your larger pets, such as horses or other farm animals.

Here are some things to consider before you decide to pay the higher premiums for “all-inclusive” pet insurance.

* Make sure you understand what “all inclusive” means. Does it cover allergies? Dental issues? Preventative treatments recommended by your vet? Prescription drugs?

* Is there a lifetime maximum for each pet covered?

* Is your pet covered if you are traveling away from home? Or if it is injured if it should get lost?

* Does the insurance have “standard” coverage, meaning it pays a set amount for a specified condition, regardless of the amount your vet charges?

* Is there a clause that requires mandatory physical exams annually?

* Do treatments have to be pre-authorized in order to qualify for reimbursement?

* Check to see if your local pet stores offer immunizations at low cost clinics.

When you start shopping for pet insurance, you might start with your vet. Your vet should have some information about types of insurance available, and what types of coverage might make the most sense for your pet, based on age, and health history.

Whatever insurance you select, be sure to stick with a company that is well established, financially stable, and reputable.

It’s always a good idea to shop around to compare prices and plans.

Written by Shelby Bateson