Owning a pet is no cheap pursuit. From food and toys to grooming, boarding, and more, there are plenty of costs associated with welcoming a furry friend into your family. Now, more pet insurance providers are working to convince pet parents that insurance is vitally important. Just like us humans, pets need check-ups and can succumb to many kinds of injuries and ailments. If something happens, you’ll need to cover the cost of the vet bill. So, you may be wondering if pet insurance is actually worth the cost. There are many things to consider when deciding whether or not to purr-chase pet insurance. Below, we’ve offered a few insights that can help you determine the right choice for you and your pets!
Consider Your Pet’s Lineage
Certain breeds of pets are more susceptible to certain ailments than others. For example, larger dogs are known to suffer from hip dysplasia, while others may be prone to skin disease, glaucoma, cataracts, and more. Mutts and mixed breeds tend to be more resilient than purebreds. If you have a breed that is known for any one of these problems or something else, then it may be a good idea to invest in pet insurance. There are plenty of plans to choose from, so you can decide what works best based on your finances. It may be better safe than sorry!
Consider Your Pet’s Age
While some opt to get pet insurance as soon as they get a pup or kitten, others may wait until their pet is a bit older. Again, you should consider the breed of your pet and the average lifespan of that particular breed. Also, you may have a young rescue who needs a lot of medical attention from the start. If you have a pet that needs medication or treatment right off the bat, it may be wise to consider pet insurance. Otherwise, you may be able to hold off until your pet begins to age.
Consider Your Finances
While having a pet is an exciting thing, a dog or cat can be quite the financial burden – especially if he or she succumbs to an injury or illness, like cancer. Treatment costs can be astronomical and you need to be prepared for any cat-as-trophe. We know you’d do anything for your pet, but you need to consider the high bills that may start to pile up. Even if you decide not to opt for a pet insurance plan, starting an emergency pet fund can be extremely helpful.
Ultimately, it’s your choice whether or not to purchase pet insurance. If you take into account the above considerations, you should have a better idea of what the right decision is for you and your furry friends. According to Consumer Reports, the average cost of pet insurance for dogs is around $22 per month, while pet insurance for cats is slightly less at $16 per month. Of course, pet insurance doesn’t cover everything and you’ll still need to consider premiums and deductibles.