JUNE 3, 2015 | By Melanie Haber
Pet Insurance – get it before you need it
When it comes to our pets, we would like to be able to spend whatever it takes to keep them healthy and give them the longest life. When the time comes for veterinary attention, we would like to provide them with the best possible medical care available, but are we financially prepared for the unexpected expense?
In an emergency, pets are often taken to a 24 hour care center where a veterinarian can administer immediate emergency and trauma services. These services are usually a surprise and do not fit into our carefully planned budget. In fact, a recent survey by the Associated Press found that a significant number of pet owners (41 percent) are extremely or somewhat worried they could not afford the medical bills for a sick cat or dog.
Wouldn’t it be great if we could see into the future and budget for all of our pet’s medical needs? In a way, you can. With a pet insurance plan that fits your pet’s needs and your budget you can be more prepared. Many pet plans do not cover pre-existing problems, however, when purchased before a problem presents itself, an insurance plan can potentially save you from a catastrophic financial loss or even worse, the loss of your pet.
Depending on your pet’s lifestyle and exposure, there are many concerns living in Arizona that would warrant having pet insurance.
Living in the desert produces some emergency situations pets in other parts of the country may not have. Rattlesnake bites, cactus tangles, toad poisoning, valley fever and heatstroke are just a few of the emergencies we see on a daily basis. We also see the same emergencies other pets have in the rest of the country like viral diseases, being hit by a car, broken bones and debilitating diseases like cancer, pancreatitis and other ailments.
When you are ready to get pet insurance, the important thing is to make an educated decision.
There are many considerations when deciding which pet insurance to purchase:
Is there a physical exam required to get coverage?
Once you sign up, is there a waiting period?
What percentage do they pay – after you have met the deductible?
Are payments capped in any way?
Are there co-pays?
Does the plan cover pre-existing medical conditions?
What about chronic or recurring medical problems?
Can you choose any vet or hospital?
Are prescription drugs covered?
Do they offer coverage for natural or holistic approaches?
Is your pet covered while traveling?
Does the policy pay even if your pet is treated and dies?
If this sounds like a lot of work, do not despair! Here at Animal Health Services our Pet Insurance Advocates can help walk you through the insurance selection process (We do not sell for nor endorse any insurance companies).
To better assist you in making an educated decision based on your pet’s needs and your financial comfort level, we have carefully reviewed many of the top insurance offerings, including their rates, coverage and customer service quality.
When your pet is covered with pet insurance you will be able to make treatment options based on what is best for your pet rather than what you can afford.
If you would like more information about pet insurance or would like to schedule a complimentary visit with one of our Pet Insurance Advocates please contact us at 480-488-6181 or email [email protected].
