Pet Insurance has grown in importance over the years and although many dog owners are still not fully aware of its benefits more and more are looking to use it.
Being very similar to the insurance that any of us would take out for ourselves it does provide your Labrador with at least the basic cover. This can prove to be lifesaving.
However, if you want to splash out a bit more then you can look at the more advanced options for cover.
Your Labrador deserves the best possible insurance you can afford. Remember that if you cannot afford the best insurance to go for what you can afford. There is no point in going for the most expensive policy and then not being able to eat.
Also, you must take your time in deciding. There are many options available online and you could be paying for a policy that you like within minutes. Don’t do that. Spend some time finding out about everything you can and eliminating the ones you are not happy with until you are left with only a couple. Then start making some serious decisions.
Regular visits to your veterinarian may not occur until your Labrador is older but the unexpected can always happen. Some insurance companies will not insure dogs over the age of 8, but then some will continue to insure a pet until they are 27.
Costs and coverage will depend on a lot of different points. Even if you think you pet is completely healthy some companies will look at the breed, age and whether your dog is just a pet or a watch dog too. Some breeds will have more chances of having genetic defects or health problems.
As your Labrador gets older it will become much harder to treat him compared to when he is younger and recovery times are faster. Think about it in comparison to humans, we are harder to treat as we get older because our bodies can only take so much. The same has to be said for dogs.
A typical ‘basic’ plan does cover quite a few things. However, depending on where you go to buy your basic plan, options may differ, as will prices.
A basic plan may cover the following: accidents, hospitalization, prescription medication, MRI, CAT Scans, X-Rays, Surgeries, Cancer Treatments and illness.
A more complete package would include all of the above and the following extras: Vaccinations, Spay & Neuter, Annual Exam, Prescription Flea Control, Heartworm.
Some of the best advice anyone can give when it comes to Pet Insurance is to buy a policy that covers the unexpected. Unforeseen circumstances are covered in some policies but make sure you get the option.
Pet Insurance is a must have. If your Labrador is still young then look at policies now and be prepared. For those of you with older Labradors you should get a medical history sorted out with your veterinarian and see what policies suit your situation.
Remember that providing your dog with Pet Insurance is your way of providing the best possible care for him. Both of you should have the opportunity to spend as much time together as possible, so go out and get the best possible policy!
