Eleven years ago, I researched insurance for my Brittany puppy. Friends said don’t bother. It wouldn’t cover preventive care or serious illness. High per-incident deductibles barely paid for emergencies. I didn’t get the insurance. At age eight, my Brittany started having seizures. The cost of an MRI — $1500. Another vet recommended against anti-seizure meds. She lived happily another 2 ½ years with several costly emergency room visits. Ultimately, she didn’t recover from her last episode. Perhaps the test wouldn’t have changed her prognosis; however, I will forever wonder if I reduced her chances at a longer life by not getting the MRI.
Insurance Terms Have Changed
Obtaining a dog insurance quote online is easy. Nowadays, there are numerous options available to dog owners. There are plans covering everything from preventive medicine – shots, dental cleanings, neutering, annual exams and more. Emergencies occur far more often than we like to think. A puppy swallows a sock. A dog ingests snail bait. Another dog attacks your pet at the dog park. Now surgery is required. Serious illnesses, such as cancer or neuropathic disorders, are no longer exempt from coverage. The key is deciding what you need.
Plans and Costs: What Do You Need and When
Many plans start as low as $20 per month. You can obtain a dog insurance quote for puppies as young as 8 weeks. Previously uninsured senior dogs, depending on the breed, are usually not insurable. However, a previously covered senior dog will continue to be covered under the same policy year to year. A comprehensive puppy policy can be obtained for less than $40 per month. For a $50 per-incident deductible, accidents, illnesses, including cancer, and wellness treatments such as vaccinations, dental cleanings and neutering procedures are covered. Many providers offer options for renters covering up to $700 in pet damage to rental property. You can choose plans that cover different percentages. Choose to cover emergencies only, or choose full coverage. You just have to decide what you want and how much you want to spend.