We’ve all been there – you get home from a long day and it looks like a Mack truck ran through your living room. Searching the rubble that was once your home, you realize that not only did your dear, dear puppy do all this damage, but she also got into the Halloween candy you had hidden. Panic-stricken you drive the full, but potentially poisoned, pup to the emergency vet to find out that they’re going to charge you upwards of $300 just to induce vomiting and “monitor the situation.”
Sound familiar? Well, save yourself the time, frustration, and sticker shock of going to the emergency vet, by researching and investing in coverage for your pet.
Insurance companies are aggressively expanding their pet insurance policies. Much like your own medical coverage, most plans do not cover preexisting conditions, but increasingly they are covering health and wellness visits.
While plans differ depending on the insurer, the type and breed of the animal, and which plans you opt for, generally speaking you can stick with your tried and trusted veterinarian. Unlike medical coverage for humans, most plans don’t have “in network” and “out of network” vets, meaning Fido doesn’t have to switch doctors when he gets covered.
If you think pet insurance is right for you and your furry companions, talk to your vet about what type of coverage is appropriate. Remember, the type of coverage will depend on your animal’s breed, age, and temperament, so your vet will know best. If you would like to know more, check out the ASPCA’s pet insurance site.
