Pets are part of the family, and pet health insurance is a must. Pets nourish us with companionship, unconditional love and support when we need it the most. In return, we supply them with food, shelter and love.
When our furry friends get sick or injured, it can be heartbreaking. Vet bills can be expensive, and sometimes pet health insurance is the only way to ensure that our animal companions get the care they need.
But which pet health insurance is the best? Let’s take a look at three things you should consider before buying pet health insurance for your dog or cat.
by David Stone
What To Consider with Pet Health Insurance
1. Coverage
The first thing you’ll want to consider when shopping for pet health insurance is coverage.
What does the policy cover? Does it cover routine care, such as vaccinations and check-ups? What about accidents and illnesses? Does it cover hereditary conditions?
Make sure you understand exactly what is and is not covered by the policy before you purchase it.
2. Cost
The second thing to consider is cost.
How much does the policy cost per month? How much is the deductible? Are there any discounts available?
Be sure to compare the costs of several different policies before making a decision.
It’s wise also to check with your vet. Their offices deal with insurance companies directly – not their ad campaigns.
Despite what may appear as excellent coverage at a good price, some companies are difficult to work with and some are simply reluctant to pay. You don’t want that on top of the stress from caring for a sick or injured pet.
And that brings us to…
3. Customer Service
Finally, you’ll want to consider customer service. Does the company have 24/7 customer service? What is the turnaround time for claims?
How easy is it to file a claim? You’ll want to make sure you’re comfortable with the company’s customer service policies before you purchase a policy.
All companies are not alike. The most expensive can be the least reliable and so forth. Ask friends, check online and – I repeat – touch base with your vet who is probably your best resource.
Pet Health Insurance Conclusion:
No one likes thinking about their pet getting sick or injured, but it’s important to be prepared for anything. Pet health insurance can help take care of vet bills in the event that your animal companion gets sick or injured.
When shopping for pet health insurance, be sure to consider coverage, cost, and customer service. And make sure you choose a policy that’s right for your dog or cat—and your budget!
