Pets provide us with joy and become a part of our family. At HIA, we love knowing that so many pets have found their forever home and their humans have found a friend for life. So, with all that pets give you, isn’t it time to provide them with the same level of care that other family members receive?
One great option is protecting them (and your own wallet) with pet insurance. Let me share with you something me and my family personally experienced.
Just last year my family lost our beloved dog, Phoebe, in a whirlwind sickness that seemed to come out of nowhere and ended up costing us thousands of dollars to try and save her. We were shocked and financially unprepared because she was only five years old and seemingly a very healthy, happy dog. Now, with our new sweet puppy, Ripley, we have learned a valuable lesson and purchased pet insurance right away. I can tell you first hand, pet insurance will give you peace of mind knowing your pet is protected, and it may save you from costly vet bills. And most importantly – if you are ever faced with a big vet bill that you are unprepared for, you can make medical decisions based on what your pet needs, versus only on what you can afford.
For the Love of Pets
The ASPCA estimates that roughly 23 million Americans acquired a pet within the last few years because of COVID-19 and the stress that it has brought to our lives. Fur babies give us companionship when times are tough, and boy have “Covid-times” been rough. Our pets always bring a smile to our face. They are always excited to see us, even if it’s only been five minutes since you were there with them. And they ask for nothing in return except to be taken care of and loved.
A part of taking care of your pet is regular visits with their veterinarian to both help them if they are sick and to prevent health issues. The same reasons we, as humans, visit our doctors.
The Cost of Caring for Pets
New puppies and kittens require several checkups within their first year of life. They need:
- Vet Fees and Physicals: Up to $300 Per Visit
- Vaccinations: Up to $30 Per Shot
- Heartworm Testing: $50
- Spay or Neutering: Up to $220 Average
- Dental Cleanings: Up to $400
The reason for all these things is to ensure they get a healthy start. Considering the average cost for a vet visit during this time, it’s estimated that per pet you could easily spend $1,500 to $2,000 the first year, even if they are 100% healthy.
As they age, the cost may drop some, but what happens if they have an unexpected health issue or accident?
- A short hospitalization can cost up to $1,700.
- Long hospitalizations may edge closer to $3,500.
- Pet surgeries could cost upwards of $5,000.
- Stomach or digestive issues may run more than $6,600.
And let’s not forget the “exploratory” procedures that can make an owner raise an eyebrow, but when our vet said they needed to do this for our Phoebe…believe me, we said “Yes!”
Prices may vary based on your location, but no matter where you live, it’s costly to provide care for your fur baby. You must prepare for it, otherwise, your beloved pet may end up suffering while you try to come up with the money for care.
Pet Insurance Takes the Pressure Off Your Wallet
Owning a pet is one of life’s greatest pleasures. However, it can be a challenge for your bank account. Animals can have many health concerns.
- Hereditary Conditions: Some animal breeds can be predisposed to develop eye disorders, stomach tortion, hip dysplasia, heart disease, and more.
- Behavioral Issues: Some pets develop nervous habits such as fur pulling, excessive licking, and destructive chewing.
- Accidents: Pets are curious and active by nature. This may lead to broken bones, eating things they shouldn’t, severe cuts, and more.
- Illnesses: Pets are not immune to illnesses such as UTIs, diabetes, and cancer.
Some experts even say that owners without pet insurance are more likely to euthanize their animals than pay for a lifesaving surgery. We hope that none of these issues come up for your pet, but let’s acknowledge that when it comes to pet ownership anything is possible.
Do You Need Pet Insurance?
For your “human” family members, you provide health insurance to cover their unexpected costs. Hershfield Insurance Agency can help do the same for your four legged family members. From the day you bring home your new pet or as they are growing up, protect them from future health concerns with .
Pet insurance will not typically cover anything that can be seen as a pre-existing condition, and just like humans rates do increase the older they get. But insuring their health protection can help keep your pets around for many years to come.
If you want to learn more about pet insurance or what it may cover regarding your fur baby, contact us. We can help you find the best policy for your canine and feline family members in the same way that we have protected our own.
