Which pet insurance to take for your pet?

Is pet insurance really that important? Or is it a waste of money? The obvious question is how valuable is your pet to you? But to be fair, the main argument is, as it is with any other insurances, that you will pay for it and hope you never need it. And, how do you compare pet insurance?

Here are some unbiased facts. In the US alone, close to fifty billion dollars a year is spent on pets, and of that amount, more than a quarter of it is on health care. Statistically, two thirds of pet owners go into debt  to pay for their pet’s veterinary treatment and care.   Cats go to the vet about half as much as dogs, but even an annual visit can cost several hundred dollars. Procedures once common only for humans are now becoming more common for their pets, including radiation, orthopedic prostheses, and dialysis.  A dog who needs surgery for a broken leg after being hit by a car can cost upward to $6,000,00.  Pneumonia in a cat can cost close to $4,000.00.  Euthanasia can cost $300-$600.00. A regular pet dental teeth cleaning to remove built up tartar that requires twilight sedation can cost hundreds.

Dogs, cats and even exotics will face health problems all of their lives. And today, because of advances in veterinary medicine, pets are living longer than ever before.  Treatment for them has also become more feasible and more humane. Puppies and kittens will need initial vaccinations and neutering.  They can ingest things they shouldn’t because they are inexperienced and naturally curious. Poisoning happens more than you think in younger pets because they can get into places we wouldn’t think about, just like kids can.

Adult pets need booster shots, regular dental cleaning and check ups, possibly blood tests for parasites. They may get bladder, ear or viral infections. Of course they can suffer injuries. Geriatric pets require special care. Diabetes, arthritis and cancers may set in.  At every stage of life, there is a need for pet treatment, and it can get so costly. Make sure that when you compare pet insurance, you check out their age restrictions in general, or restrictions on the amount being paid out in case your pet gets older and needs a treatment. Some companies have a table showing decreasing percentages of payout on a claim with the increase of the age your your pet.

Dogs and cats are not the only pets that need coverage. An Equine plan for horses is necessary whether yours is a million dollar race horse or a workhorse out on the farm.  Horses can have injuries and disease, parasites and dander problems.  Exotic pets such as reptiles, rodents and even birds require veterinary care. More and more vets are specializing in exotic care as more city dwellers opt for these more unusual companions. Many insurance companies cover these critters as well.

Why take the time to compare pet insurance plans?

Just like insurance plans for people, plans for pets vary a lot. Most have a deductible of between $100 and $500 dollars. Some pay out a percentage, such as 70-90% off the vet costs.  More and more insurance companies are also beginning to lean towards discounts for seeing preferred vets and for insuring multiple pets.  If you don’t really mind going to a different vet if required by your insurance company, it can actually save you a lot. Some pet insurance policies also assist in the boarding costs whether related to a vet visit or a vacation.  To be sure, there is a  pet plan that will meet your pocket book and your pet’s needs no matter which carrier you choose. Just make sure you compare pet insurance with an open mind