Pet Insurance

The best time to purchase health insurance for your pet is when it is still a puppy or kitten. You can still purchase policies later in life, but your coverage might be limited by “preexisting” conditions your pet develops before the policy is effective. What you do not want to do is wait until your pet is sick and really needs the insurance. At that point, the current illness will not be covered.

It is actually less expensive to purchase pet health insurance than it is human health insurance. Employers typically pay 80% to 90% of an employee's premium, however, which is not usually the case for pet health insurance (although some companies may offer pet health insurance as an employee benefit). Still, pet insurance costs generally reach only between $20 and $50 per month, depending on your policy. The American Animal Hospital Association strongly suggests pet-owning families assess their financial situation and consider their ability to meet unexpected expenses that may arise for veterinary care. One of the ways these expenses can be met through pet health insurance.

While outdoor pets are more likely to be victims of certain accidents and illnesses, being an indoor pet does not guarantee good health. Accidents can occur in the home and indoor pets can succumb to a variety of illnesses. It is always better to be prepared.

Reputable pet health insurance providers should have an easy claim process. This usually consists of taking a copy of your claim form with you to an office visit, having your veterinarian provide your pet’s diagnosis and sign the form, then submitting the completed claim form to the insurance provider along with supporting receipts and invoices.