I was thinking the other day about what I would do if I had a thousand dollars to spend on my health. One of the ideas I had was to purchase pet insurance. Pet insurance isn’t really something I’ve looked into before for Moose and Lally — I always figured I would handle emergencies as they arose (like when Moose got hit by a car this spring).
First, some statistics:
- Only between two and three percent of American pet owners have insurance on their pets.
- The average annual cost for pet care in the U.S. in 1998 was $138.
- The average annual cost for pet care in the U.S. in 2007 is $219.
- A serious health issue like being hit by a car or an accidental poisoning can cost between three and four thousand dollars for treatment.
Statistics come from surveys by the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association.
Here are some things to consider if you are thinking about insurance for your four-legged family members:
- Younger animals tend to be more accident prone than older pets. If you are getting a puppy or kitten, think about starting your insurance plan right away. Some insurers will cover a pet as young as six weeks old.
- Older animals may not be eligible for insurance — America’s largest pet insurer won’t enroll animals over ten years old.
- Basic pet insurance usually covers treatment for injuries and serious illnesses. Some insurers offer wellness plans that cover routine care and testing.
- Read your policy carefully before buying — especially if you have a purebred. Some insurers may not cover health issues that some purebreds are susceptible to.
The cost of your pet insurance plan can vary widely depending on coverage and the pet’s breed and age. A basic plan can cost between ten and thirty dollars monthly; an insurance plan including wellness care can cost between twenty and fifty-five dollars each month. Insurance plans for cats are generally less expensive than plans for dogs.