The Pros and Cons of Purchasing Insurance for Your Pet

The very first pet insurance policy in the U.S. was offered to the television star Lassie in 1982. Since then, the concept of pet insurance has become more common for both Hollywood pets and household animals alike.

However, the decision to purchase pet insurance can be a tough one. Approximately 46.3 million U.S. households have at least one dog, but do they all need insurance? If you’re on the fence about pet insurance, here are some pros and cons.

Pros

Better Ability to Afford Treatments

Surgery, drug therapy, and any number of other medical treatments could cost hundreds or even tens of thousands of dollars without insurance. With insurance for pets, you can significantly reduce these costs, making it possible for you to improve your pet’s health.

Customize Your Coverage

Unlike the very early days of pet insurance, you can choose from different deductibles. You can also choose from basic insurance or comprehensive policies that can include anything from injury treatments to dental care.

You Pay According to Risk

Insurance for older pets is generally more expensive because they’re in a higher risk pool for disease and injury, but if you choose to insure your pet at a young age, the cost may be less.

Cons

You May Lose Money

Unfortunately, some insurance policies for pet care are a bit more expensive than you may need. When choosing pet health insurance plans, it’s important to select the best plan for your specific needs.

You May Pay for Unnecessary Treatments

While some pet owners will opt for pet care procedures simply because they can afford it, those procedures may not necessarily be in a pet’s best interest. Even if your pet is insured, it’s important to make decisions that will benefit their health.

Finding Insurance Can be Difficult

Sometimes, finding the right policy can be difficult, but pet insurance companies are out there and are ready to help you make the best decision for your four-legged friends.

U.S. pet owners spend approximately $12.56 billion in pet supplies and over $13 billion on veterinary care annually. Offsetting that cost with pet insurance can be nice, but ultimately, the decision should be made with a pet’s best health and interest in mind.