What is pet insurance and how does it work?
Everyone's used to having medical insurance for themselves. Pet insurance is the same thing. It will cover your pet's medical issues. You're going to bring your pet to us, we'll diagnose the issue, and then you'll submit the information to your insurance company. Essentially, you're trying to defer some of those costs through an insurance program, just like you and I get covered medical costs.
Is pet insurance worth it for dog and cat owners?
I've only had maybe one pet owner in my entire career say they were disappointed with their pet insurance, but that's one out of many others. The vast majority of pet owners do not regret having pet insurance, especially when it comes to unexpected illnesses and medical bills that can rack up quickly. The cost of pet care is getting higher every year, and those unexpected costs can be challenging to pay for. Pet insurance makes you feel like you're able to provide the best care for your pet and makes it more affordable.
How does pet insurance differ from human health insurance?
When we go to the doctor's office and have insurance, our doctor's office bills our insurance company, and we don't usually pay at the time of services. Pet insurance is different. You, as a pet parent, will pay your veterinarian for the care provided at that visit and then submit a claim to your insurance company. Your veterinary office is not going to do that work for you because they don't have the staff. They will provide you with all the information you need, but it's up to you to submit the claim. There is one exception where a specific pet health insurance provider works with veterinarians and submits a claim for you, but that's not true for all of them.
How can pet owners compare pet insurance companies to find the best plan?
There are many plans out there, and new ones are coming out all the time. It can be confusing to know what's available, and it differs by state due to specific insurance mandates. There is one insurance broker for pets called Pawlicy Advisors. You can input your information about your pet and what you're looking for, and they will search the market to find the best match for you. That's a good resource to have available.
How do pre-existing conditions affect pet insurance coverage?
Pre-existing conditions greatly affect your ability to get pet insurance coverage. Most insurance companies will not cover pre-existing conditions. If we diagnose your pet with an issue like allergies or an ear infection, and then you attempt to get insurance, they will often exclude coverage for those conditions. There are exceptions, such as some companies covering future issues like the other knee if one knee has had surgery. But generally, you need to check with your insurance provider as most won't cover pre-existing conditions.
What are the benefits of health insurance and how does it help with the cost of veterinary care?
The benefits are significant. Whether it's a wellness visit or a sick visit, we might need to run tests like blood work, x-rays, or surgery, and these can be expensive. If your pet is covered by pet insurance, it reduces anxiety and makes the recommended care more affordable. It allows us to provide the best care, conduct necessary diagnostic testing, and treatment. It reduces stress and the ability to afford care for both the client and the veterinarian. The real winner is the pet, who receives the best care possible. Pet insurance is not very common, but we hope to change that as it is affordable for many clients. It's best to have it before bringing your pet to the veterinarian. Your veterinarian can give sound recommendations on pet insurance, so please talk to them and consider getting your pet insured to ensure a long and healthy life!