Pet Insurance: What You Need To Know

Dog in a life jacket

Cats and dogs are not just pets, but part of the family. It is why pet owners take a lot of time and energy to invest in them, and not just in providing high-quality food and proper shelter. Today, the percentage of pet owners investing in pet insurance is growing by the day. If you are one such pet owner considering pet insurance, there are a couple of things you need to know about the insurance, ranging from genetics to the overall care of your pet. Here are some of the factors:

You need to start investing early

As soon as you get your pet, consider getting him insured. For most of the insurance plans, they do not cover pre-existing conditions. Technically, if you are looking for the best pet insurance for older dogs, you will need to spend more than ensuring a puppy. 

Other than that, you never know what might happen to your pet as it grows older. Covering him earlier on allows you to ensure him from any pre-existing condition that might pop up later.

Different plans cover different things

Pet insurance is more or less similar to human insurance. While you may have a deductible percentage from your income going to your pet insurance, different insurance plans cover differently. Find out how much your insurance covers, whether 50, 80 or 90% of your pet’s vet bill. Otherwise, you can opt for a plan that is specific to a certain problem, instead of the regular visits to the vet. 

Technically, most insurance plans do not cover preventative care, but rather, illnesses and injuries. Look carefully at the policies of the insurance plan you are choosing. Find out what you are most interested in, and how much of it is covered. For example, you may find that insurance plans do not cover foods and nutritional supplements.

Non-lifetime and lifetime insurance

Did you know that the types of insurances differ? The lifetime insurance covers a dog for ongoing conditions throughout their lifetime. Ideally, if you claim for disease in the first year of insurance, the disease is covered throughout the life of the pet. With the non-lifetime insurance, the case is different. Any ongoing condition is only covered in the first policy year. Any further treatment is excluded from the cover, which means the pet owner has to foot that bill. 

Companies differ 

Different companies have different policies surrounding pet insurance. The main differences between the companies come in the lines of:

  1. Pets that are coveredwhile most companies cover cats and dogs, some cover other animals like horses, rabbits, and reptiles are not covered by all companies.
  2. Calculation of reimbursementhow is the reimbursement offered? Either the vet bill numbers, customary rates or a benefit schedule.
  3. The annual contract – do the terms change after the renewal of the contract?

Before you settle for the company to ensure your pet, carefully consider the terms and service under which you are agreeing to cover your pet. While at it, keep an eye out for the veterinary discounts plans, which should not be an insurance plan, but instead, a membership-based service.

Consider other ways to keep your pet healthy

Much as you have your pet covered a long way, you need to find other ways to keep your pet in good shape. Stay on top of vaccinations, dental cleanings, and regular vet visits. This way, you are cutting down on the health risks that could affect your pet. Remember, even though your insurance plan entitles you to sophisticated treatment and medication, you do not have to do it. It may be expensive and available, but it is not mandatory unless it is necessary.

Take time to care for your pet other than giving him good food and cuddling with him. Ultimately, the best kind of love is when you can keep your pet healthy and fit.