As a dog parent, you always want to provide the best care for your furry friend. However, just like humans, dogs (and cats) can experience unexpected accidents and illnesses. The cost of veterinary care can add up very quickly. That’s where dog insurance comes in! Essentially, insurance helps cover the cost of unexpected veterinary bills and gives piece of knowing your dog’s health. Let’s explore the benefits of pet insurance and why it’s a wise investment for any dog owner.
Financial Protection
One of the main benefits of dog insurance is that it provides financial protection in the event of veterinary bills and expenses. Without any insurance, you may be faced with the tough decision of choosing between providing the necessary care for your dog and paying the bills. When you have dog insurance, you can rest assured that you’ll be able to provide the best possible care for your pup without worrying about the cost.
Pet insurance pays you back for unexpected vet bills related to accidents, injuries, and illnesses. With the best insurance companies, you get reimbursed for 80%, 90%, or even 100% of the vet bill (after your deductible is met). Like most insurance options, you’ll pay a monthly premium to keep your coverage active.
Comprehensive Coverage
Dog insurance policies vary, but many offer comprehensive coverage for a range of illnesses, accidents, and injuries. This can include everything from broken bones and torn ligaments to cancer treatments and emergency surgeries. In addition, depending on the policy you choose, you may also have coverage for preventative care, such as annual check-ups, vaccinations, and dental cleanings.
Peace of Mind
As a pet parent, you want to do everything you can to keep your dog healthy and happy. However, accidents and illnesses can happen at any time, and they can be expensive to treat. Dog insurance can give you peace of mind knowing that you have a safety net in place should anything unexpected happen to your furry friend. You can focus on providing the best care for your dog without worrying about the cost.
Lower Veterinary Bills
Another benefit of dog insurance is that it can help lower your overall veterinary bills. Many insurance policies offer coverage for preventative care, which can help catch health issues early on and prevent more serious and costly conditions from developing. Additionally, if your dog does need treatment for an illness or injury, insurance can help cover the cost, which can help reduce the overall bill.
Customizable Policies
Different dogs have different needs, and dog insurance policies can be customized to meet those needs. Depending on the policy you choose, you may be able to select the level of coverage you need, as well as any add-ons or riders that fit your dog’s specific needs. This can include coverage for hereditary conditions, alternative therapies, and even travel insurance for taking your dog on vacation.
Better Access to Veterinary Care
Having dog insurance can also give you better access to veterinary care. With insurance, you may be more likely to take your dog to the vet for regular check-ups and preventative care, which can help catch health issues early on and prevent more serious conditions from developing. Additionally, having insurance can give you access to a broader range of veterinary services, including emergency care and specialty treatments, which may not be affordable without insurance.
Easy Claims Process
Many dog insurance policies offer an easy claims process, making it simple and stress-free to get reimbursed for veterinary bills. Depending on the policy, you may be able to submit claims online, through an app, or by mail. Some policies even offer direct billing, meaning the vet bills the insurance company directly, and you only pay your portion.
A Range of Options
There are many dog insurance providers and policies to choose from, so you can find a policy that fits your needs and budget. Some policies offer basic coverage for accidents and illnesses, while others offer more comprehensive coverage, including preventative care and alternative therapies. Additionally, many policies offer different levels of coverage, so you can choose the level that fits your budget.
So, How Much Does Pet Insurance Cost?
On average, the monthly cost of pet insurance is $47 for dogs and $29 for cats. The actual costs may be higher or lower simply depending on:
- Where you live
- The age and breed of your pet
- How you customize your policy
- Which pet insurance discounts you may qualify for
- Healthier Pets
Another benefit of dog insurance is that it can help keep your pet healthier overall. With insurance, you may be more likely to take your dog to the vet for regular check-ups and preventative care, which can catch health issues early on and prevent more serious conditions from developing. Additionally, some policies offer coverage for alternative therapies, such as acupuncture and chiropractic care, which can help keep your dog healthy and happy.
Flexibility
Dog insurance can also offer flexibility when it comes to managing your finances. Depending on the policy, you may be able to choose your deductible and reimbursement levels, which can help you manage your budget. Some policies also offer discounts for insuring multiple pets, which can help save you money in the long run.
Emergency Preparedness
Finally, having dog insurance can help you be prepared for emergencies. Accidents and illnesses can happen at any time, and having insurance can give you peace of mind knowing that you’re prepared for anything that comes your way. Additionally, some policies offer coverage for emergency boarding and transportation, which can help keep your pet safe and secure in the event of a disaster.
What Pet Insurance Doesn’t Cover
No pet insurance will cover pre-existing conditions. However, some providers will cover curable conditions with no recurring symptoms after a certain waiting period. Also, pets with a pre-existing condition are still eligible for insurance; their coverage would only exclude the specific condition that already exists.
Other pet insurance coverage exclusions may include:
- Pet supplies (food, toys, treats)
- Cosmetic procedures
- Elective surgeries
- Routine care/Wellness exams*
- Preventive care*
- Spay/Neuter*
- Vaccinations*
- Boarding or daycare
- Pet property damage
- Personal liability claims
- Specific exclusions
*If you’re interested in plans that reimburse for routine and preventive care (checkups, vaccinations, spay/neuter, dental cleaning), consider a Wellness Plan add-on.
The total number of insured cats and dogs in the U.S. has more than doubled in the last five years. In this time of economic uncertainty and pet insurance is becoming more important. As everyday costs rise and the markets are trending down, ask yourself: what would you do if your dog or cat had an unexpected $5,000 vet bill?
Today, over four million dogs and cats have pet insurance in the U.S.
Pet insurance offers a range of benefits for you and your pets. Specifically, it provides financial protection, comprehensive coverage, peace of mind, lower veterinary bills, and customizable policies. It also offers better access to veterinary care, easy claims processing, healthier pets, flexibility, and emergency preparedness. While pet insurance may seem like an added expense, it’s a smart investment to consider for pet owners.
