Why Do I Need Pet Insurance?

Why Do I Need Pet Insurance?
by Nigel M.

People normally take out a pet insurance policy to cover the bills for serious vet treatment as this can become extremely expensive. In fact so expensive in some cases that the animal has to be put down as the owners cannot afford the treatments. Pet insurance ensures this does not happen as the insurance company will pay the medical expenses, which leaves you time and energy to nurse your pet back to good health.

What Is Pet Insurance?
Pet insurance is an insurance policy that covers your household pets and is usually used for dogs and cats. Most pet insurance will pay for the veterinary costs if your pet has an accident or is taken ill. Pet insurance can also provide third party protection for any damage your pet cause to other people's property and cover other expenses such as emergency kenneling costs, travel, theft and even death. Pet insurance also gives you peace of mind, knowing that your pet will always receive the best medical treatment available.

On average one in every 3 pets require treatment from a vet each year following illness or injury and more than half of the visits to the vet are unplanned due to sudden illness or an accident. Treatment for broken legs, spinal injuries, hip treatments and internal complaints can quickly run into thousands of pounds, especially if x-rays or medication is required. There are also the unforeseen associated costs that may be incurred like court costs (you are liable if your dog causes an accident) and holiday cancellations. All of these can add up quickly.

Many pet health insurance companies only cover dogs and cats as a rule. However, there are some companies that also provide cover for other animals such as horses, exotic birds, reptiles and rodents.

What Types Of Pet Insurance Policies Are There?
Generally pet insurance companies offer a variety of policies from the basic through to premium plans that provide cover for every aspect of your pet's medical care. You need to decide how much care is right for your pet and then pick a policy that closely matches your needs. As with other insurance policies, the higher the premium, the more cover that is provided.

It is important to look out for the following main points to see if they are covered in the pet insurance policy:

1. Cover for life or fixed term
2. Vet Fees
3. Death from illness
4. Accidental Damage
5. The policy excess
6. Dental treatment?
7. Third Party Liability & legal expenses
8. Death from accident, theft or straying
9. How much of the vet bills are covered. 70 - 100%
10. Emergency treatments, X-rays, lab fees etc

Like with humans, some pet insurance companies require your pet to have a medical exam . This is so the insurer can manage their risk and keep premiums down as they are not providing cover for animals that are on deaths door and having to payout on an animal that are known to be dying. The insurance companies will usually put a cap on the total amount they will pay on a policy either in any given year or on any one type of illness. If your pet has a pre-existing medical condition, you may struggle to find an insurance company that will give you cover.

The best way to save money on your pet insurance is to shop around and compare prices. Check at least three separate insurance companies to compare pricing and terms to ensure you get the best deal.

Nigel is a successful webmaster and publisher of a best pet insurance plan website.