Pets are very worthy companions. Any pet owner will tell you that owning a pet has improved their lives to a certain degree. However, just like humans, pets can get sick or have accidents that requires treatment.

Pet care and treatment can sometimes be costly, especially if admitted to a clinic. According to MetLife, a dog emergency vet visit can cost between $150 to $5,000, depending on the service, while cats cost between $150 and $3,000. With these figures in mind, now you can see why pet experts recommend having pet insurance.

What is pet insurance?

Pet insurance is similar to human health insurance, but it’s specifically designed for pets. It reimburses you for a portion of your pet’s covered medical expenses, which means you’ll pay a monthly or yearly premium.

When your pet gets sick, you’ll cover the payment out of pocket and then file a claim with the insurance company to reimburse the cost. The money you’ll receive will depend on the reimbursement percentage on your policy. Most pet insurance policies will refund 70% to 90% of the cost.

Pet health insurance is not as widely available as human insurance. The pet experts at Pets And Animals Tips report that insurance for dogs and cats is the most common, although you can still get it for horses, reptiles and birds.

What does pet insurance cover?

Pet insurance plans vary greatly depending on the provider. Essentially, most coverage is for accidents and illnesses. However, depending on the plan you choose, the policy may cover the following:

• Emergency care: Unexpected vet visits for broken bones, poisoning or allergic reactions.
• Surgery: Procedures like spaying/neutering, tumor removal or ACL repair.
• Hospitalization: Costs associated with overnight stays at the vet clinic.
• Diagnostic tests: X-rays, blood tests, ultrasounds and other diagnostic procedures.
• Medications: Prescribed medications for your pet’s treatment.

Some plans offer additional coverage for:

• Wellness care: Routine checkups, vaccinations and preventative medications.
• Behavioral therapy: Training for problem behaviors like chewing or excessive barking.
• Alternative therapies: Acupuncture, massage therapy or hydrotherapy.

In most cases, pet health insurance does not cover pre-existing conditions. For this reason, before purchasing insurance for pets, confirm the policy conditions to avoid disappointments and having to pay out of pocket.

How much is pet insurance?

According to MarketWatch, pet insurance costs range from $15 to $90 monthly. The average pet insurance for cats and dogs is $32 and $66 monthly, respectively. However, the exact cost will vary depending on the following factors:

• Species: Cat insurance is generally cheaper than dog insurance.
• Breed: Certain breeds with higher genetic predispositions to health problems may have higher premiums.
• Age: Younger pets typically have lower premiums than older pets.
• Location: Veterinary care costs vary by region.
• Coverage level: More comprehensive plans with higher coverage limits will cost more than basic accident-only plans.
• Deductible: The amount you pay out of pocket before your insurance kicks in. Higher deductibles typically mean lower premiums.

Do you need pet insurance?

According to pet experts at Pets & Animals Tips, every pet owner should insure their pets. Pet insurance is a safety net for your furry companion’s health. It helps you shoulder the burden of unexpected veterinary bills from accidents or illnesses.

Coverage lets you focus on your pet’s recovery without worrying about breaking the bank. Imagine not having to choose between your pet’s well-being and your finances. Pet insurance offers peace of mind and lets you make the best health decisions for your pet.

Remember, vet bills can sometimes run up to thousands depending on the service provided. Your pet is guaranteed the best care as long as you have insurance. Always contact pet experts for advice if you are unsure what plan to choose.

Conclusion

Pet insurance is precious for pet owners who want to be prepared for the unexpected. It can provide peace of mind, knowing you won’t have to make tough financial decisions if your furry friend needs medical care.