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Pet Health Care Plans
by Karen Frisch
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Overview
Our pets are as susceptible to illness and injury as we are. Pet health insurance is designed with the same goals as human insurance. The point is to defray major medical costs, especially as a pet ages, and the costs of health care tend to rise as its needs change.
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Coverage
With policies usually reserved for dogs and cats, many insurance companies cover a pet from the age of 8 weeks and consider pets up to 9 years old. Coverage ranges widely, with some plans focusing on accidents only while others cover unexpected illness and injury. Some insurers offer comprehensive plans that include coverage for check-ups, vaccinations and dental care. Most plans pay 80 percent of costs after a deductible is met, often about $100. Many pay for lab tests, x-rays and overnight veterinary care.
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Advantages
Pet health care plans offer peace of mind for unexpected illnesses or accidents that can be costly. Not all vets accepted pet insurance in its early stages, but today many companies offer reimbursement plans in which the owner pays the bills at the time of service and submits receipts with a claim to the insurer. Most companies allow pets to be treated by any licensed veterinarian in the United States or Canada. Most insurers offer affordable plans, some beginning at less than $10 monthly. Some offer discounts for multiple pets.
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Disadvantages
Not all plans cover visits to specialists such as veterinary ophthalmologists, an issue for older pets who often develop cataracts. Most plans don't cover congenital or hereditary disorders, and some exclude coverage for conditions that existed before the policy took effect. While some companies pay a percentage of the actual veterinary expenses, others allow only a fixed amount for a given procedure. Some will not cover cosmetic procedures such as tail docking. The older a pet is at the time the policy is implemented, the higher the monthly premium is likely to be. Coverage can be canceled or limited under certain circumstances.
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Options
When selecting a company to insure pets, owners need to decide which plan suits their needs most closely. Always be sure to read the contract carefully so you know and understand your specific coverage. Homeopathic remedies and food supplements are often not covered, so those with dogs that have special dietary needs might feel an insurance policy isn't necessary. Seek the opinions of veterinarians and pet owners with different kinds of insurance. Ask about their level of satisfaction with their coverage. Compare your needs to the services offered by various insurance companies for the best fit.
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Biggest Benefit
While many pet owners would benefit from having pet health insurance, those who might benefit most are those with an older pet, those whose pets are more likely to sustain an injury because they are allowed to run, and purebreds that are prone to particular diseases. Consult your vet before signing any policy to ensure he finds the terms acceptable.
