Let’s be honest, dealing with insurance companies can wear you down. Health, life, car; it sometimes feels like every part of your life needs a policy. And now, pets are part of that list too.
It’s not exactly fun handing over more money each month, but pet insurance is one expense that can truly pay off for your peace of mind and for your animal’s well-being. I’ve had to make claims myself, and I can say it was worth every penny when my pets needed care.
The good news is that pet insurance can be surprisingly comprehensive. The key is knowing which essentials to include. Here are four important ones to look out for.
Vet Fees
Of course, this is the first thing an owner thinks about regarding coverage. Vet fees are expensive and most people can’t afford them without help.
But, lots of animal people only buy a basic cover which doesn’t extend to a variety of ailments and illnesses. Typically, a level 2 policy will have a maximum limit for each condition so you can claim until you reach a glass ceiling.
As soon as you get there, though, the insurer won’t pick up the cheque. Generally, level 1 is best because it provides a fixed amount each year.
Third-Party Liability
When a dog gets hit by a car, no one thinks about the damage to the vehicle. Instead, it’s all about saving the animal and rightly so.
However, the driver will need reimbursing for the damage if the collision wasn’t their fault. That’s right; you will have to pay for their repairs too including veterinary expenses and this comes to a big amount.
Thankfully, the insurer will pay out for everything in this scenario as long as you include it in the contract. It’s called third-party liability and it’s essential.
Attacks
No owner ever sees it coming because it’s a bolt out of the blue, but dogs are animals. As a result, you can’t control them all of the time as they are subject to their instincts. When they want to bite someone, they will and they can cause some serious damage too.
Even a tiny Yorkshire terrier has a nasty nip. Anyone bitten by a dog can sue, as it might cause them distress. The right cover will cover the court fees should a lawsuit land on your porch. Make sure it covers damage to other dogs, too, as they rile one another up and tend to fight.
Lost Or Stolen
Dogs can go missing for all kinds of reasons; a gate left open, a loud noise that startles them, or, in the worst cases, someone taking them. It’s heartbreaking, and once you start searching, the costs soon build up. Printing posters, paying for adverts, or driving around for hours all add up fast.
Retrieval cover can ease that burden, helping with the cost of advertising, rewards, and sometimes even a new pet if yours isn’t found.
When you’re choosing a policy, look for one that truly covers every angle. The best plans think ahead for the things you hope never happen, and that kind of peace of mind is worth it.
