A Responsibility of Pet Ownership: Paying for Pet Care

A pet is an incredible source of joy and companionship. Along with these joys come the responsibilities of pet ownership, including meeting the cost of veterinary care.

Those who wish to bring a pet into their families are encouraged to consider their ability to provide for the pet's care in all areas, including food, shelter, grooming, licensing, training, and regular examinations with a veterinarian. Families should plan for the unexpected costs of illness or injury. Some potential avenues for meeting the cost of medical expenses are:

• Existing savings
• Credit cards
• Medical payment cards or payment plans, such as Care Credit
• Proactive savings earmarked specifically for pet health care expenses
• Pet health insurance policies
• Other resources such as Animal Aid's Jack Hurd Memorial Loan Program (Portland area)

Pet Health Insurance

An increasing number of pet owners are choosing to purchase pet health insurance policies for their pets. Typically, such policies provide reimbursement coverage for your pet’s eligible medical treatments, surgeries, lab fees, X-rays, and prescriptions.

Some points to consider when choosing a pet health insurance plan:

• Coverage: Be sure you understand what procedures and treatments are covered. Some policies will cover preventative care, such as vaccinations, although in some cases this coverage is provided at an additional cost. Often the least expensive time to obtain coverage for a pet is when they are young. Older pets may have established medical conditions that would be excluded from coverage. And, as with people, older pets may incur higher premiums.
• Exclusions: These may include pre-existing conditions, hereditary conditions, and conditions specific to certain breeds.
• Deductibles and Copays: Understand what your "out of pocket" expenses will be before the plan will reimburse you. Be sure you understand the reimbursement process. Some insurance providers will allow your veterinarian to submit a claim on your behalf. Most require you to submit the claim yourself and await reimbursement. Keep in mind that your veterinarian will need to be paid for his or her services at the time care is provided.
• Providers: Will visits to your pet's regular veterinarian be covered? Does your veterinarian participate in the plan? Or does the insurance company require you to see a "preferred provider?"
• Referrals: Ask your veterinarian about his or her experience with various pet health insurance plans. Ask your friends and family if they have any experience with pet insurance. Their feedback can help you make the best choice for your pet.