Protecting Fido, Too

Many pet owners overlook the financial risks associated with pets. Pets, like humans, can face unexpected illnesses or accidents that require costly veterinary care.

Peace of Mind

Pet insurance helps offset the cost of care. The three main types of coverage are wellness, accident, and comprehensive. Insurers may also offer additional optional coverage within each category. According to the North American Pet Health Insurance Association, average monthly premiums for accident-only policies are $16 for dogs and $9 for cats. For accident and illness policies, premiums average $62 per month for dogs and $32 per month for cats. More comprehensive coverage generally costs more than these amounts, depending on plan details.

Caveats

Generally, you must meet a deductible before the insurance takes effect, and many policies don't cover preexisting illnesses. Waiting periods for coverage are common. Failing to keep your pet up to date on vaccines will likely exclude coverage for preventable diseases. You'll want to explore all your options before purchasing pet insurance. For some people, it's more cost-effective to save for routine veterinary care and buy accident-only coverage.