Pet health insurance is increasingly finding acceptance among pet owners and is being offered as part of many insurance plans. With its unique flexibility and inclusivity for a variety of pet breeds and ages, it offers quality care for pets without the financial strain.
Pet health insurance is carving out a significant niche for itself, mirroring the necessities of human health coverage but with a twist. More pet owners are finding value in securing these policies, which are cropping up as perks in insurance bundles. Unique in its flexibility, pet insurance steps away from the limitations of its human health plan counterpart by allowing claims from any veterinarian. This type of inclusivity extends to a variety of pet breeds and ages, offering a comprehensive safety net for the four-legged members of the family.
Whether you’re considering insurance for your new puppy or an older pet, the idea lies in affording the best possible care without the worry or constraints of the costs effecting your personal finances. Pet health insurance acts as a buffer against unforeseen vet bills so their health care costs don’t create extra financial stress.
Choosing a pet insurance plan requires consideration of several factors including policy coverage levels, premiums, and your pet’s specific needs. Most policies cover costs related to illnesses and injuries, although coverage can vary between plans.
What pet health insurance covers
Most pet insurance policies cover the cost of wellness visits including vaccinations, screenings, spaying or neutering, as well as treatments related to illness or accidental injury. However, not all policies are created equal, and some may only cover routine care.
While there are many common features in these policies, there are distinctions that could affect your decision. Question the extent of services covered and if they include surgeries, hospitalization, or prescriptions. Understand the provisions for end-of-life procedures and if any specific conditions for heredity, congenital, or incurable conditions exist. You need to know how a newly diagnosed condition of your pet could impact the renewal of your policy.
You should also be aware of the claims process. Find out if there is a waiting period for coverage to begin and if there are preferred or mandatory provider networks. Familiarize yourself with copayment requirements and whether the policy you choose directly pays or reimburses you for the costs.
Coverage considerations
When considering insurance for your pet, certain factors should be taken into a count. Their species and breed may influence coverage, as specific breeds may have higher health risks. Consult your vet to get an idea about potential treatment costs for common ailments in your pet’s breed. This may define coverage limits. Also be aware that some policies may have mandatory waiting periods stretching from 10 to 30 days, during which certain medical visits might not be covered.
For owners of high-value animals including horses, livestock, and specialty breeds, specific insurance policies are available. These typically cover the financial loss if the animal dies from an accident or natural causes, with animal mortality insurance offering payouts in the event of death from natural causes.
Worth noting is that your homeowners or renters insurance policy typically doesn’t not cover the loss of a pet due to an accident such as a fire. Some auto insurance policies do provide coverage for your pet’s treatment if they are injured in your vehicle, but not if another’s pet is injured due to your actions.
Ultimately, pet health insurance not only promises peace of mind but ensures that providing the highest level of care for your pet doesn’t translate into financial distress. Explore pet insurance options that best fit you and your family’s needs by speaking to an insurance professional today.
Cynthia Padilla, Insurance Agent, MBIS (Hollywood Branch)
323.845.4489
cpadi@firstent.org
Maria Okafor, Insurance Agent, MBIS (Burbank Branch)
323.845.4494
mokaf@firstent.org
Monique Garcia, Insurance Agent, MBIS (Culver City Branch)
323.845.4495
mgarc@firstent.org
Media Benefits Insurance Services
License#0H99393
6735 Forest Lawn Dr., Hollywood, CA 90068
insurance@firstent.org
www.firstent.org
