The average cost of an emergency vet bill is around $800 to $1,500. Without proper planning, vet bills could leave you in debt or with a lengthy payment plan. How can you afford the pills while getting the best care for your pet?
Keep reading to learn about the average cost of pet insurance and the kinds of coverage.
What Is The Average Cost of Pet Insurance?
Like health insurance for humans, pet health insurance helps to cover medical expenses like check-up exams, vaccines, dental care, surgery, and more, depending on the type of plan you choose. Similar to other insurance plans, you pay monthly for coverage and must cover some out-of-pocket expenses until the deductible is met. Pet insurance plan costs range depending on age, size, breed, and level of protection.
Pets that are larger will need higher doses of medications than smaller ones, meaning a big pet is slightly more costly to insure. Your location also influences the prices you will pay, as conditions like heartworm disease are more common in certain states.
Breeds that are more predisposed to illness or injury, like intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) in dachshunds and cocker spaniels, or polycystic kidney disease (PKD) in Persian cats. Conditions like this are often not covered, but you can still insure your pet.
Is Pet Insurance Worth It?
Pet insurance covers significant costs in the event of injury or onset of a chronic illness like cancer or diabetes. Wellness plans include coverage for disease testing, dental health vaccination, and yearly exams, although this often must be added on. If you expect your pet’s veterinary bills to exceed the cost of a monthly insurance bill, a comprehensive insurance plan is a right way to go.
Pet insurance, however, doesn’t cover pre-existing conditions and may limit reimbursement for visits for hereditary diseases. Dog insurance costs for wellness are around $25 to $45 a month. Cat insurance costs are similar.
Basic plans often have no deductible, waiting period but often have a cap of a few hundred dollars. Comprehensive plans cover most treatments and care aside from routine exams. Monthly costs are higher, but you could be reimbursed up to 90% of veterinary expenses.
When is the Best Time to Get Pet Insurance?
Pet insurance is probably not the first thing you think of when you adopt a pet for the first time. Unfortunately, many don’t think about buying coverage until after receiving a costly vet bill. So, there is no wrong time to purchase pet insurance.
Senior pets (ages 7 to 11) are more difficult to find coverage for, especially if they have pre-existing health conditions or require a lot of vet care. However, it’s still a good idea to cover your pet as it can relieve the stress of unexpected payments and ensure you can afford to provide the care senior pets need.
Dogs are potentially more likely to be injured or have an accident in the summer. Common injuries include sprains or torn ligaments, eating harmful plants, heatstroke, and foot injuries or burns.
Protect Your Pet
Know that you know all about the average cost of pet insurance; you can find the right plan for your pet. Regardless of your financial situation, it’s a wise choice. Don’t put off veterinary care for your furry friend because you’re afraid of a steep bill.
If you found this article on buying pet insurance helpful, check out the rest of our site for the more great information.
