What Is Pet Insurance and How Does It Help My Dog?
Years ago, people had few options for insurance. Protection covered things like homes, businesses, cars, and life, but not much more. Today, you can find insurance for almost anything, including your pets. While some people might think of this as a frivolous expense, dedicated owners completely understand the decision to ensure the health and safety of their animals.
A Long History
Interestingly, Claes Virgin of Länsförsäkringar Alliance wrote the first pet insurance policy in 1890. Although his focus was on livestock rather than domesticated animals, that opened the door for new opportunities. Even so, it wasn’t until 57 years later when, in 1947, a company in Britain wrote the first policy for domesticated pets.
What Is Pet Insurance?
Just as the name implies, this is an insurance policy specifically written for the animals that people live with. Not only can you buy pet insurance for dogs, but also cats, birds, and other beloved critters. Although a policy like this benefits animals of any age, it’s especially recommended for people with aging or older pets
For instance, say you have a 10-year-old Labrador Retriever. This breed has an average lifespan of 12 years (smaller dogs lifespan such as Maltipoo ranges from 12-16 years). So, by the age of 10, most start to experience health problems associated with age. As a result, their owner anticipates spending more time and money at the vet. After all, they want to provide their dog with the best remaining years of life possible.
Another scenario involves buying a puppy. Around the age of three months, he’s romping around the house and yard. However, he’s also discovered an interest in the street. Obviously, that’s not good. If a car accidentally hit the puppy, its owner would need to rush him to a veterinarian clinic for treatment. Something like that can get expensive.
In both cases, having pet insurance for dogs will cover all or a good portion of vet bills. Depending on the exact plan, some only cover preventative care, while others also include the cost of emergencies. This is why it’s so important to compare different policies for pet insurance before choosing one.
How Does Pet Insurance Work?
Pet insurance for dogs, cats, birds, and other animals works in much the same way as car and renter’s insurance. You pay a monthly premium for the policy. The price depends on the type and amount of coverage. When working with a reputable insurance provider, you can look at numerous options to find one that’s ideal for your pup.
One big difference with pet insurance for dogs, as well as other critters, is that in most cases, the provider would reimburse you after you pay the vet. Most pet insurance policies cover between 70 and 100 percent of the vet bill. When you get a policy from a reputable provider, you can expect to receive your claim money in about seven to nine days.
Regarding the types of things that pet insurance covers, most policies pay for emergency injuries and illnesses. They also pay for many surgeries, medication, diagnostic procedures, and emergency examinations.
One important note: Seldom will pet insurance cover anything mentioned if it’s related to a preexisting condition. But if you buy pet insurance sooner than later, even if your dog develops a chronic health condition later in life, it could be covered.
Summing It Up
To avoid paying the full expense to keep your pet healthy and safe, consider pet insurance. If you’re interested in coverage for your pup, make sure you choose pet insurance for dogs with the lowest deductible, highest reimbursements, and fastest claim turnaround.
Be sure your regular vet is part of the network, as well. Otherwise, you would need to take your furry friend to a different clinic. Fortunately, most pet insurance companies have a broad selection of covered veterinarian services.