Pet Health Insurance | Buying Tips

If you have a pet, and especially if you have multiple pets, you already know that veterinary treatment doesn't come cheap. Be that as it may, you still want to ensure that your pet gets the best health care available, so how do you do that without seriously impacting on your budget?

The answer is pet health insurance.

Most major insurance companies issue pet insurance policies these days. Unfortunately, the variety available makes choosing a bit more complex. With the myriad options available, how to you choose a policy that matches your dog's particular needs?

Your start by doing some research. Pet health cover is in many ways similar to your own health plan. Different plans offer different levels of cover, and each has its own governing rules, regulations and exclusions.

Make absolutely sure about the cover you are paying for because the last thing you want in an emergency is to discover that your pet is not covered for the things you thought you had paid for.

Must I Take Out Pet Health Insurance?

That is a question that only you can answer, but if your pet is important to you and you believe she deserves the best medical care, then pet health cover is a no-brainer.

If you don't have insurance cover you will either have to find the money, or your dog will not receive the treatment he needs. And while putting away a bit extra to cover vet's expensive is admirable, what happens if your dog develops a serious disease or has and accident? This bills can easily run to thousands of dollars.

So pet health insurance makes good sense, and may actually save you money.

How Much Does Pet Health Insurance Cost?

The actual cost of insurance is subject to a whole set of factors, including the dog's age, breed, and the level of cover you require..

There may be other factors to consider too. Some insurers may charge extra, depending on your dog's lifestyle - for example whether he is primarily a guard dog or a companion dog.

What Restrictions Are Applicable To Pet Health Cover?

Again, these differ between companies and policies. One common factor is the dog's age. Many insurers will not cover a dog that is older than 8, unless the policy was in place before the dog reached that age.

Almost all insurers will also exclude cover for conditions that already exist.

Additionally, most companies have a 30 day exclusion period before cover starts. Often, accident and emergency treatment cover is put in place immediately, while all other plans start after the mandatory waiting period..

Which Policy Is Best For My Dog?

Choosing the right cover means weighing the cover you need against the premiums you can afford. It's a competitive market and there are lots of options available, so do your homework, and shop around.

Your dog deserves the best health care available, and pet health insurance ensures that you can provide it without denting your wallet in the process.