Pets are considered part of the family. A dog’s companionship, loyalty, and unconditional love are just a few reasons why we want to keep them healthy and strong so they can live a full and happy life with us. But just 40 percent of Americans are able to afford an unexpected $1,000 dollar emergency expense with their savings, which also includes the capacity to cover a sudden veterinarian bill. Responsible pet ownership not only includes showering your dog with love and affection but also being able to afford standard pet health care. Luckily, dog insurance is an efficient way to safeguard your beloved pets from illnesses and can aid you in providing the best health care.
Insurance is a dependable safety net you can rely on to protect your assets like your home, cars, and of course your health. So, if it works for you and the things you care about it should also work for your dog. To help we have listed all the foolproof ways dog insurance is the right call for your furry friend.
Assess the benefits of dog insurance
In order to understand if your dog’s insurance is worth the cost, you will need to consider a number of factors such as your yearly income and standard of living, combined with the kind of pet you have, its age, and current health status. If you really love your pet, the benefits of dog insurance definitely outweigh the costs. You don’t want to be caught in a position of not being able to save your dog’s life because of the limitations of what is in your bank account.
- Dog insurance doesn’t only cover veterinarian or medical expenses. The right pet insurance provider should offer other services that lead to the overall wellbeing of your pet. Some insurance companies agree to provide micro-chipping coverage that is an invaluable tool that can help you be reunited with your pet on the off chance it gets lost.
- Access preventive care. If you are a long time pet owner, you are most likely aware of the costs involved to raise your puppy until it becomes an adult dog. Preventive care is included in certain insurance plans that can cover vaccination costs, spay and neuter services, and heartworm protection. If you are a first time pet owner, there are few things you need to know before you even buy the dog.
- You can select the veterinarian that works best for your dog’s needs. Veterinarian clinics accept all leading pet insurance policies. This enables you to afford a top-notch veterinarian you might not have considered beforehand because of your lack of budget. A reliable insurance plan will provide you with the freedom to choose the veterinarian that tends to all your dog’s health issues.
Factors to take note of:
- Don’t expect full coverage. Based on the insurance plan that you choose, you should not demand complete coverage for all of your dog’s health problems. Read into the fine print before taking on a plan, so you are aware of the extent of insurance coverage. Consider a plan that allows you to be flexible and goes within your budget and the best interest of your pet’s needs.
- Your pet might not be eligible. Certain pet insurance providers have breed or age restrictions that may not work in your favor. It’s best to look into pet insurance policies while your dog is still a young pup so you are able to provide it with the best care as it ages.
- It can cost you. Premium plans and monthly coverage can be pricey. Expect to pay more for a premium insurance package for your dog if it provides a wide array of services. Research well into the options provided by the package so you will have a better chance of landing the right plan for your furry friend.
Seek Expert Advice
The best advice can be sourced from your pet’s local health care provider. Veterinarians come across insurance claims each day and will be able to assist you in classifying your dog’s immediate health issues and help you analyze the standard of care your furry friend requires. As your dog ages, certain health problems can suddenly arise. You never know there could be an unwanted accident or ailment that may require you to pay thousands of dollars to rehabilitate your dog. If you are equipped with pet insurance, this can help you manage the costs.
Contemplate your pet’s breed and age
Just like humans, our pets become more susceptible to health issues as they age. Due to this, they need added care to live a healthy life. A routine veterinarian visit should be established when your dog is a puppy and continue as your dog matures. Preventive care and routine check-ups can assure fewer chances of health issues in their lifetime. This can help reduce the costs of healthcare. Hereditary or genetic issues are factors to take note of, so you will be able to address them during their early stages. Some dog breeds are more prone to sickness or health issues as they age so be aware of their history before making them a member of your family.
In Closing
Pet insurance coverage can extend and save the life of your furry friend by providing access to medical treatment your pet needs should a health emergency arise or they develop certain illnesses as they age. It does not only cover veterinarian expenses but also helps in other routine essentials your dog needs to stay well.
Always seek the advice of your veterinarian on what insurance plan best fits your budget, your dog’s breed, and age. The more preventive care your pet receives early on in life, the more likely it will be healthy later on, giving you more years to spend with your furry best friend.
