Lately there has been a lot of talk about Health Insurance and what direction it's going to take. This brings to question, "What about our pets?" Should we get health insurance for our pets? We know that taking our pets to the Vet can be very expensive.

When you buy health insurance you are basically budgeting a little each month in anticipation that there could be a large vet bill.

Here are some things you should know before getting health insurance.

What are you purchasing. Are you paying for a comprehensive policy or a discount plan? A comprehensive policy usually covers more illnesses and procedures; a discount plan is a discount on vet care and you pay an annual fee.
Are annual exams covered?
How much is the deductible?
Do you get a discount for multiple dogs/cats?
How long has the insurance company been in business? (Look for at least 10 years).
Are certain conditions excluded?
Does the insurance company set limits or caps on how much they will pay for illnesses or accidents?
Is there a waiting period before coverage will begin?
Does the insurance company choose your vet? If so, this may be a problem for you.
Are emergency or after hour visits covered?
When the policy is renewed, does the premium go up or do they even renew as your pet gets older?
Are prescriptions covered?
Some insurance companies offer options that are not normally associated with the pet's health, including covering boarding costs for animals whose owners are hospitalized. Some policies also include travel cancellation coverage if owners must remain with pets that need urgent treatment or are dying.

It's important to buy pet health insurance when your pet is healthy, rather than when signs of illness have already started to show. Pet insurance only covers conditions that have developed after coverage is purchased.

Always check the details before signing a policy. Some companies will use a benefit schedule covering only what they think a given procedure is worth. Other companies will not cover hereditary conditions. Some companies will not renew your policy at the end of a given term or will consider a condition pre-existing after renewing your yearly contract and then refuse to cover the illness.

After all is said and done, pet insurance can provide financial support, assisting you financially, when life-saving care is needed.

 

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