Coming home to find your dog in distress ( especially when it turns out they’ve swallowed a sock!) can be a real shocker, not to mention pricey if they need emergency surgery. That’s where pet insurance comes in handy! It can cover a lot of those medical expenses, like treatments, prescriptions, and surgeries. While it can definitely be a lifesaver in critical moments, it might not seem worth it if your pet hardly ever gets sick.
So, let’s chat about the pros and cons to see if pet insurance is the right fit for you!
KEY TAKEAWAYS
What Pet Insurance Pays For:
- Deductibles and Payouts:
- Annual deductible must be met before coverage starts.
- Most plans reimburse 70%, 80%, or 90% after the deductible.
- What’s Covered:
- Covered: Emergencies, surgeries, and treatments after the deductible.
- Not Covered: Routine care (vaccinations, checkups) and pre-existing conditions.
Alternatives to Pet Insurance:
- Self-Funding:
- Save for vet expenses in a high-yield savings account.
- Pros: Flexibility with saved funds.
- Cons: Risk of insufficient funds during emergencies.
- Financial Assistance:
- Explore vet payment plans or affordable clinics.
- Utilize crowdfunding or resources from organizations like The Humane Society.