Dogs are an essential part of most American families; in fact, over 46 million U.S. households own a dog, which just under half of the population. Recently, thanks to improvements in pet nutrition research and veterinary care, our furry best friends are living longer, presenting new challenges in pet health, especially senior dog care.
There may be physical, metabolic, and behavioral changes in your dog, including weight loss and increased sleeping. Vision problems, hip pain, and digestive issues also become more prevalent in older dogs. Therefore, it?s very important that your pet receive regular care as they age. And studies show that most pet owners in the United States do take good, if not excellent, care of their pets. Consider that over $12 billion is spent annually on pet supplies and over the counter medicines, with another $13.5 million spent on vet care. In addition, many of these pet owners have pet insurance plans as well.
Although it may not be necessary for healthy, middle age doges, insurance for older pets is a good idea, as pet visits become more frequent in senior animals. Pay close attention to pet insurance company reviews and their specific offerings, as they are not all the same. Just as with health insurance for people, there are various policies with differing areas of coverage. For example, some insurance plans do not cover illnesses or offer pet wellness plans; they only cover accidents.
Other aspects that pet insurance company reviews should address include price, choice, and payment. As with any insurance, a low price does not necessarily indicate a bargain, especially if there is a high deductible, or if illnesses common to your pet aren?t covered. Regarding choice, this is one area in which pet insurance is simpler than human insurance; there are few restrictions on which veterinarian you can use, and no need for complicated referrals. Any licensed veterinarian is eligible to file claims. On the other hand, most veterinary insurance is paid out of pocket and then reimbursed later by the insurer after you submit your claim. Pet insurance is considered a type of property insurance, and thus has similar guidelines about how claims are filed and paid.
A few things that might vary from company to company include age limits for enrollment, health exclusions, waiting periods, deductible amounts, and cancellation policies. By taking some time to explore pet insurance company reviews, you can compare and contrast this information to find the pet insurance plan that best suits your family. Many plans offer reduced rates for additional pets, so that you can afford coverage for all your furry friends.
Pet insurance, which ranges in cost from $10-$100 per month, is really not very expensive, compared to worth the peace of mind in knowing you?re caring for your pet properly. Pet health requires more attention as they age, making their care more expensive. However, a balanced pet insurance plan can help you manage costs and keep your dog in your life for as long as possible.