Archive for the ‘Pet Insurance’ Category
December 14th, 2010 | 
Author: There are a number of issues to consider when taking out an insurance policy on a pet and perhaps the most obvious of these is the type of pet to be insured. Different animals have different needs and characteristics when it comes to evaluating them for insurance purposes and many insurance companies will offer specific policies for particular types of family pet.
Two of the most commonly requested types of pet insurance are for dogs and cats. Dog insurance will need to take into account the chances of the animal succumbing to a long-term or hereditary condition, which can frequently happen when the dog is several years old and which may require special therapy or medicines to treat. It is advisable for any owner contemplating pet insurance, specifically for a dog, to make sure that diagnosis and treatment, including potential surgery or hospitalisation periods, are included for those conditions that may affect dogs or specific breeds of dog. This may include, but not be limited to, surgery for ligament damage, cancer treatment and dental treatment, although it is likely that neutering procedures will not be included.
Similarly, cat insurance should cover treatment for conditions that are particularly suffered by cats or certain breeds of cat. These may even include non-standard treatments, such as hydrotherapy or acupuncture.
Whatever the case, it is worth checking with both a veterinarian and the insurance provider before agreeing the terms of a pet insurance plan for a specific animal.
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Shopping for pet insurance can involve quite a lot of reading and plenty of questions. One of the most frequently asked questions when considering pet cover is, “what is not covered?” Though the exact details of any pet cover policy will vary among insurers, there are some things that pet insurance plans generally won’t cover. It is important that as a pet owner you are fully aware of these generalities. Remember, the more you know about what is and is not covered in the pet insurance policy, the better off you are when it comes down to the purchase.
What is Not Covered
Generally speaking, most pet insurance policies will not cover the following:
• Vaccinations
• Routine care including but not limited two flea control, dental work, grooming, and standard vet visits
• Existing and pre-existing conditions
• Congenital disorders such as hip dysplasia
• Long-term treatments that last for more than twelve months
• Veterinary bills exceeding the maximum spend for your plan
Only in General
The exclusions listed above are, of course, only a guide as to what is typically not covered in pet insurance plans. Before signing on the dotted line, you should always read exactly what the plan does and does not cover. If there is ever any doubt, discuss it with your insurer directly and immediately. A good rule of thumb to remember is that if something is not mentioned as being specifically included, then it probably isn’t.
When you have a pet insurance policy, it is very important that you understand exactly what that policy covers and what it does not. It is also important to remember that every pet insurance company will offer a different range of options at different costs and levels. While there will be variations, there are also some generalities when it comes to pet cover.
Veterinary Fees
Most pet insurance plans will cover veterinary fees up to a certain amount. A major injury or illness may end up costing hundreds or thousands of pounds and the insurance can help cover those costs. The more veterinary fees the plan will cover the higher the premiums are likely to be, just as with any other insurance. However, it is important to read the policy thoroughly as routine veterinary fees may not be covered.
Reward Money and Loss
What happens if you lose your pet? Most people put up fliers and offer a reward for the safe return of their beloved animal. That is where pet insurance comes in. Many plans will help cover the expenses associated with finding your pet. This may include advertising costs, reward money, and even more. If your pet is pedigreed, you may even be eligible to receive compensation covering part or all of the cost of your pet.
Liability
Even though your pet may be the most mild-mannered animal around, it is still an animal. That being said, animals can cause damage. If your pet causes damage to someone else’s property or perhaps even causes an injury, most pet insurance policies will help cover those costs.