Securing the Future with Pet Health Insurance

Our pets are a part of our family, and the unconditional love, devotion, and hours of joy and laughter they provide are simply irreplaceable. It’s no wonder that we go to extreme lengths to keep our furry friends healthy and prevent illnesses, and to treat them when they face illness or injury. Fortunately, advancements in veterinary medicine have allowed us to rise to the challenge. Pets can now receive a level of healthcare previously only reserved for humans.

While it’s wonderful to be able to offer your pet the best in veterinary care, the cost can be overwhelming especially when it is an unplanned expense. While a Petly Preventative Care Plan can help with the expense of yearly costs, more and more, clients are turning to pet health insurance as a way to offset the expense of life-saving medical care.

While pet health insurance is not the right choice for everyone, the team at Androscoggin Animal Hospital wants you to have all the facts so you can make the best decision for you and your pet.

How it Works

Modern pet ownership comes with associated costs. Some of the costs can be planned for, and some are unexpected. Average annual pet care costs around $700, and that doesn’t include emergency surgery, sudden illness, or accidents. Pet insurance is designed to help cover the costs of catastrophic events.

Considering Pet Health Insurance

There are many pet insurance companies, all with various policy options. Consider the following as you do your research:

• Reputation – Spend some time shopping around; look at reviews, make phone calls, and make sure your questions are answered to your satisfaction.
• Cost – You can purchase pet insurance designed to pay for emergencies only or for routine care, as well. Look at your budget and decide where and when it makes sense to pay out-of-pocket expenses. Make sure you can afford the annual or bi-annual fees.
• Pre-existing conditions – Most pet insurance policies won’t cover pre-existing conditions and breed-specific diseases, although there are some exceptions. Make sure you understand the limitations.
• Premiums and deductibles – Starting an insurance policy while your pet is young and healthy will enable you to receive a lower rate and the maximum financial benefit. However, pets of any age can be insured. If your pet is healthy, you still qualify for a lower rate.
• Waiting period – A waiting period prior to the policy going into effect is common, so be sure you know when your pet will officially be covered.

Why it Matters

Grappling with how to pay for your pet’s medical care can be an extremely upsetting and heartbreaking situation. Pet health insurance can alleviate this worry when it comes to making important medical decisions for your faithful companion.

We are partnered with Trupanion Express. We offer a 30 day free trial for each exam, and if you sign up the initial 30 day waiting period is waived and coverage starts immediately. If you’d like additional information or have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact our staff for assistance.