Pet health insurance is an arrangement that provides coverage for costs of your pets’ health care. Pet insurance plans typically cover unexpected illness and injury, as well as some routine procedures like vaccinations, checkups, and dental cleanings. Most pet insurance plans are reimbursement plans rather than true insurance. This means the plan will reimburse you for costs associated with your pet’s treatment up to a certain amount.

There are many benefits associated with pet health insurance. Below are five of the benefits you’ll enjoy as a pet owner:

1. An easy way to budget pet health costs

When you’re at the animal hospital with your pet, costs can add up quickly. Especially over time, even the costs of routine care can add up. For instance, $50 per month for flea and tick medication adds up to $600 annually. If you have a dog that requires monthly heartworm medication, there can be an even more significant dent in your wallet. Using a pet insurance plan can help you to save on these costs. It also makes budgeting easier, since you know exactly how much you’ll be paying the insurance company.

2. Doesn’t discriminate by breed or age of pet

Quotes for pet insurance typically don’t have any exclusions for different ages or breeds. If your ten-year-old cat suddenly gets sick, you can rest easy knowing that pet insurance will cover it. Even if you have older pets, you don’t need to worry about getting your animals the health care they need.

3. Offers peace of mind 

Many pet owners worry about unexpected medical costs that can quickly add up. If you have a pet, there’s always the possibility it could develop an illness outside of its routine visits. You don’t want to be on vacation with your dog, only to have it get unexpectedly sick. Peace of mind is one of the greatest things about having insurance coverage for your pet. You can rest easy knowing that if your pet does get sick or injured, you’ll have the financial means necessary to provide treatment.

4. Lets you pick a veterinarian

Choosing a veterinarian is an important responsibility when you have a pet. If you’re paying out of pocket for veterinary services it can be challenging to find a reliable vet. This is especially the case when your pet needs urgent care and you have limited options for clinics that can profive prompt care. With pet insurance, you can get your pet insured for treatment at the clinic of your choice.

5. Prevents using emergency funds on pet care

We save our money for vacations, down payments on vehicles, and emergency funds. If your pet gets sick and needs emergency treatment, you may not have money on hand right away. Or, you might have to use your emergency fund. By having pet insurance, you won’t have to use your emergency fund on pet care. You can instead focus your savings on something more exciting!

Pet insurance is a great way to care for your pet and avoid the high costs of unexpected health issues. You’ll be able to save money for other things, and not have to worry about high veterinary costs.