Spring is in the air and so is the birth of many baby animals. This warm and wonderful season of renewal often inspires the desire to add to your own family…
If you are in the market to adopt a four (or two) legged friend from a shelter, or purchase a pet from a breeder, you may want to consider getting pet insurance. Although most pet insurance covers dogs and cats, there are some carriers like Nationwide that cover other exotic pets like birds, rabbits, reptiles and more.
Similar to health insurance for humans, with pet insurance, you pick a plan, pay a monthly fee and get coverage depending on the plan you select. Some pet policies only cover accidents, or accidents and illness, while others also cover prescriptions. There are also options to add on coverage for preventive care like exams and vaccinations. Keep in mind that pre-existing conditions may not be covered or there may be a waiting period for the coverage to begin. Older pets may not be eligible for coverage at all.
Pet insurance premiums can range between $14 to $60 per month. Annual deductibles will vary depending on your premium and plan. Usually, the lower the deductible, the higher the monthly premium – just like human health insurance. With pet insurance, it’s typical to pay the entire vet bill at the time of service and then submit it for reimbursement. The reimbursement amount will vary depending on the plan you picked. However, some providers will pay the vet directly. There are also coverage limits to consider; some plans have annual limits while others offer unlimited coverage.
If you have more than one pet, many providers will offer a multi-pet discount.
Is pet insurance worth it? Yes, especially for the unexpected. We get very attached to our pets and in an emergency, we will do whatever we can to care for our furry family members. A minor accident or injury could drain your bank account or max out your credit cards instantly. Remember, not having a plan is a plan you choose as well.
Multiple websites objectively compare pet insurance providers including Nerdwallet, Forbes, Consumer Affairs, and Pet Place. Make sure to do your research so you can find the best options for you and your pets.
Michele Sarna is a certified financial planner™ with Beacon Pointe Advisors and can be reached at (760) 932.0930 or [email protected].
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