The number of insured dogs and cats in the United States is currently over 1.4 million, however, that makes up only .75 percent of the total number of dogs and cats nationwide. With that startling figure in mind, and as part of National Pet Health Insurance month in September, I wanted to share why every pet should have health insurance (as if being able to provide the ultimate vet care for your pet wasn’t already enough).
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It covers accidents and illnesses
Pet insurance reimburses pet owners on their veterinary bills when pets get injured or develop an illness. Some companies even offer plans that cover routine care. It’s important to know exactly what kind of plan you have, or which one would be the best match for your needs!
Regular visits to the veterinarian will extend your pet’s life
Just like humans, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association, the more frequently your pet is under the care of a veterinarian, the healthier they’ll be, leading to longer, happier lives, especially as your pet ages.
Vet bills can come at unexpected times
Insurance is used to help protect us from life’s unknowns. Pet insurance will better prepare you (and your wallet) for unanticipated accidents and diseases that could lead to additional veterinary expenses from surgeries, treatments or medications.
Veterinary costs are rising
With new technology always becoming more available for pets, costs for operations, treatments and even general checkups are increasing. Pet insurance will make being able to afford the best course of treatment a no-brainer.
You can customize your plan
Plans can be tailored to fit your needs and budget. Pet insurers like Pets Best Insurance offer a variety of coverage options that range from accident coverage, cancer treatments, and even emergency care to better protect your pet.
You’ll never have to choose between your wallet and your pet
Insurance will allow you to do what is right for your pet and not just what you can afford. Especially in older pets, euthanasia is often an option when faced with unanticipated vet visits or treatment recommendations, but with pet insurance it won’t have to be.
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It’s easy to use
With many pet insurance companies, filing a claim is simple and can be done online in a minute or two. When you submit a claim with your receipt from the veterinarian visit, the company will reimburse you through direct deposit or cut you a check, usually in a week or two (some within days).
Veterinarian choices are endless
Most policies allow you to choose any licensed veterinarian in the U.S.. That way you can keep using your current veterinarian, or say you take your pet on a road trip, you can take your pet to any vet along the way. Many plans also include coverage to specialists and emergency after-hour clinics.
Your savings account will stay a savings account
When a surprise $4,000 surgery arises, you’ll be happy when the costs don’t affect the account you’ve been working so hard to build.
Better quality of life for older pets
Life-long pet insurance will help your pet age gracefully, with the best treatments and medications readily available to them throughout their life. Some policies have age limit restrictions, so qualifying at a younger age will help in the long run.
More pets = more savings
Agencies often offer discounts and saving opportunities when more than one pet is listed on the insurance policy. Having more pets means there are more visits, vaccines and medications throughout their entire life. Insurance will help prepare you for those visits now and down the road to make it worth every penny.
No breed or size restrictions
From a Great Dane to a Yorkie, pet insurance companies offer insurance regardless of breed and size. Many policies will account for age and breed in their policy for what conditions may look like for your pet.
Peace of mind
In a recent study of pet owners with pet insurance, 49 percent reported that the reason they had pet insurance was for the peace of mind.
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