It’s every pet parent’s worst nightmare – an unexpected emergency trip to the vet after finding your beloved pet seriously ill or injured. These times are traumatic for your pet and yourself, and the last thing you want to worry about is how to pay for the vet bill. Pet insurance is a blessing in these situations, allowing you to afford the best treatment for your pet without compromise, or having to make a heartbreaking decision.
What are the benefits of pet insurance?
For times of illness, accidental injuries, and routine medical care, pet insurance is a great asset to have. Pet insurance is designed to protect you and your pet by minimising the overall cost of veterinary expenses to you so you aren’t caught out financially should the unexpected happen. The benefits of pet insurance are vast, and include:
- Peace of mind of knowing you and your pet are covered if your pet becomes seriously ill or injured
- Your pet receives the treatment they deserve rather than choosing treatment plans on what you can afford
- It could save your pet’s life. Many pet owners have had to make the difficult decision to euthanise based on financial costs rather than medical needs.
- It’s a form of budgeting as it lets you know your veterinary costs in advance. Budgeting for vet care can be difficult as you never know when your pet will become sick or have an accident. Pet insurance makes costs more predictable and easier to budget for.
- Save you money. Vet treatment and medicines for serious injuries or illnesses can be extremely expensive, and having pet insurance can save you from having to fund any unforeseen expenses Offset the cost of certain expensive surgeries and emergency procedures your pet may need down the track.
When should you take out pet insurance?
Believe it or not, the best time to take out pet insurance is when your pet is young and healthy. No matter your pet’s age, young or old, they are at just as much risk of illness and injury. But it’s important to note, as our pets age they may develop health conditions, and if you take out a policy later in your pet’s life many insurers don’t cover pre-existing conditions or don’t allow senior pets to join
How do you choose the right one?
With the number of companies on the market offering pet insurance, each of them with different inclusions and exclusions, it’s important to spend some time researching to find the policy that best suits you and your pet. When comparing pet insurance, it’s important to keep in mind:
- What is covered in the policy? Some policies also include routine checkups, vaccinations, and dental treatment, as well as accidents and emergencies.
- Are there any restrictions on the age or breed of your pet?
- Are hereditary (illnesses your pet may develop throughout their life due to characteristics they have inherited) and congenital (conditions your pet has had since birth) conditions covered?
- What other exclusions are there?
- Are there any waiting periods?
- Is there an excess, and if so how much?
With many different options now available to suit all budgets and needs, organising insurance for your pet has never been more convenient.
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