Pet health insurance

Having insurance is a very important part of healthcare. We have it for ourselves, and we have it for our families. For many people, pets are also part of the family. In the past decade, pet insurance was developed to keep our pets safe and healthy. However, pet insurance, just like any other type of insurance can be risky. There are good and less than adequate policies. It is necessary to read the fine print of any policy. There are many factors that need to be taken into consideration.

Does the company use a network or provider list?

As with any type of insurance, you need to determine if the company uses a network or provider list. If you have your own vet that is not part of the provider list and want to stay there, you may want to consider using another insurance company. A major benefit to most pet insurance is that you are able to choose which vet you want your pet to see.

What are the exclusions and deductibles?

There are many different exclusions that are associated with pet insurance, the most prevalent being pre-existing illness or condition. Just like insurance for you and your family, if your pet has a condition that was diagnosed before you started the insurance policy, it will not be covered by pet insurance. There are other procedures such as heart worm medication, spayed, vaccinations, dental care, flea control, that are not covered by pet insurance. Another aspect of pet insurance is that coverage is limited for the first year of your pet’s life if he or she is not neutered.

Pet insurance also has a deductible. This is usually around fifty dollars, however it can increase with the age of your pet, and if procedures need to be performed, each one will have its own co-pay.