Wednesday, April 15, 2009

Medical insurance for my dog - is it worth the money?

Poor sick puppy. My dog ate one of those giant Hershey's kisses this week in a little post-Easter binge. He's only 17 pounds and I didn't discover his little indiscretion until it was too late to induce it out of him. So this afternoon I spent half a day in the vet's office and $391 later for x-rays and blood work, he seems to be feeling better. Fortunately, he didn't eat a toxic amount and didn't get any foil lodged in his belly. I hope he learned his lesson, but I know I learned mine. From now his vice stays up high, safely in the cabinet.

Meanwhile, it makes me think about medical insurance for dogs. Looking at a quick quote online, it appears that a mid-range insurance policy would run around $14 ($168 per year) for my 2 year old Bichon. I'd have to look into how comprehensive the coverage is; if it doesn't cover the ailment he gets then I've wasted my money.

As a relatively new dog owner (this little chocoholic is my first pet!) I'm wondering if medical insurance is worth is. Anyone willing to share their experience?

2 comments:

  1. Sandy,

    My husband (Matt La Giglia) is an insurance agent for Healthcare Solutions Team and he says that pet insurance is worth getting because the costs of vets and any medical needs can be costly and exceed the original cost of the animal.

    Patty G
    Mortgage Loan Processor/Originator

    ReplyDelete
  2. Sandy,

    Glad to hear your dog friend is feeling better. Watch out for onions also, they can be very hazardous to a dog's health.

    Pet insurance is definitely worth the cost in the long run. As you know, veterinary bills add up quickly and most (if not all) vets expect payment at the time services are rendered. It is most effective when the pet parent insures their animal companion at a young age to avoid preexisting conditions from being excluded.

    Please feel free to visit my page for more information. http://www.squidoo.com/Embrace_health_insurance_for_pets

    Susan

    ReplyDelete