Is Pet Insurance Worth It? This is What Veterinarians Say.

Is Pet Insurance Worth It? This is What Veterinarians Say.

 In Pet Insurance
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Even routine veterinarian visits cost pet owners hundreds of dollars annually, creating a difficult financial situation for many who simply want better care for their best friends. So, how do you reduce out-of-pocket expenses when taking your pet to the vet? And is pet insurance worth it? 

Below are some insights into the benefits of this coverage to ensure you get a tailored policy designed for your pet.

Vet visits without pet insurance can cost up to $250 for routine visits, $200 for blood work or x-rays, up to $3,500 for hospitalization, and up to or over $5,000 for surgery. IS PET INSURANCE WORTH IT? 

First and foremost, yes. Nearly 16% of pet owners reported losing their furry companion because they couldn’t afford the cost of care. Pet insurance aims to eliminate difficult financial decisions by offering a safety net that isn’t available for an uninsured dog or cat.

Additionally, many owners appreciate the peace of mind and emotional security pet insurance offers. Knowing folks have access to care without causing potential financial stress alleviates the hardship of covering unanticipated medical expenses. 

Plus, vets believe policyholders are more likely to prioritize their animals’ well-being by being more inclined to take their pets in for a routine visit. What’s more, pet insurance also allows veterinarians to provide elevated care without overburdening the owner with uninsured expenses. 

HOW MUCH DOES A VET VISIT COST? 

Veterinarians shared that the cost of a visit depends on multiple factors, including the type of pet, their age, needs, and ailments. To simplify our topic, the numbers below provide a general cost structure for common veterinarian expenses between cats and dogs based on national averages. 

VETERINARIAN VISITS BY THE NUMBERS: 

  • Routine Visit: $50 – $250+
  • Blood work: $80 – $200+
  • X-Ray: $150 – $200+
  • Bladder Issues: $600+ 
  • Hospitalization: $600 – $3,500+ 
  • Foreign Object Removal: $2,900 – $3,200+  
  • Emergency Surgery: $1,500 – $5,000+ 

WHAT DOES PET INSURANCE COVER? 

Coverage varies. But pet insurance typically covers 70%, 80%, or 90% of a qualified event once you meet the deductible. Still, the best policies are individualized to your cat or dog (or other pets) and their needs, making it a flexible option for most owners. 

Here’s how to think of each common option as a baseline:

Accident and illness plan: This potentially covers congenital and breed-associated conditions, cancer care, animal rehab, alternative therapies, and chronic conditions. Think of this option as comprehensive coverage for your pet. 

Accident-only plan: This plan could cover your cat or dog if they experience physical ailments like bites, torn ligaments, broken bones, and other qualified emergencies. Consider this option an affordable means of reimbursing you for a single emergency event without post-visit support. 

Preventive care plan: This policy may reimburse you for routine preventative veterinary care such as annual checkups, vaccinations, lab work, dental cleanings, and physical exams. Think of this choice as a plan for standard checkups and upkeep that doesn’t offer accident coverage. 

Pet insurance typically covers up to 90% of a qualified event once you meet the deductible.

3 EXPERT INSURANCE SAVING TIPS FROM VETERINARIANS 

1. EARLY ENROLLMENT SAVES 

Veterinarians recommend considering coverage early in a pet’s life before any pre-existing conditions develop that may limit coverage or increase pricing. Additionally, pet insurance premiums are rising annually, so it is best to secure a policy ASAP. 

2. BUNDLE PET INSURANCE 

Many pet insurance companies we partner with offer discounts for folks with multiple pets. Some organizations that work with JD Fulwiler & Insurance Company allow our clients to bundle coverage into their homeowners or rental insurance policies. 

3. CURATE COVERAGE WITH AN EXPERT 

It’s always best to work with a pet insurance team that understands coverage nuances and your pet. Doing so may lower your premiums and fetch you the most affordable pet insurance. 

CHOOSE THE BEST PET INSURANCE WITH GUARANTEED PROTECTION 

Pet insurance offers peace of mind and financial protection for pet owners. With veterinarians strongly recommending it, the benefits of having coverage outweigh the costs, especially when enrolled early and bundled with other policies. 

Working with an expert to curate a tailored plan for your companion can ensure your beloved pet receives the best possible care without exorbitant out-of-pocket expenses. 

Contact us today to learn how partnering with the right insurance agent may help you lower pet policy premiums while adding another layer of pet-approved financial protection. 

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