I'm not going to pull any punches on this article. Basically, some pet owners can't afford a pet. They probably shouldn't have one. I don't want to say that only rich people should have pets but everyone that has a pet should have the financial ability to provide reasonable care for their pet. I'm not saying the best care but at least reasonable care.

This is a touchy topic but I'm going to give you my opinion.

PetPlace asked me to write an article about this difficult and controversial topic. In this article, I'd like to address the issue of pet insurance. I'm the Irreverent Veterinarian. I give you my opinion and speak the truth regardless of if pet owners, insurance companies, or other veterinarians like it or not. The question that I'll address today is...What do veterinarians Think about Pet Insurance?

I'm not saying that everyone should have pet insurance. In fact, pet insurance is NOT for everyone. Of course, most companies won't insure every pet – just as most human insurance companies won't insure every single person. Many companies have age cut offs or pre-existing

conditions that will exclude the coverage of a pet. It is common for a policy to exclude any problems that occurred or was diagnosed before the date of the policy coverage. Cosmetic procedures, breeding related problems, behavioral problems, parasites, and diseases preventable by vaccines are often not covered.

There are several genetic diseases that some policies won't cover. For example, most companies have a list by breed of conditions they won't cover. This varies by company.

I can't speak for all vets but I did discuss this pet insurance topic with 5 trusted colleagues and I'll give you my opinion that was also the consensus of the group.

Pet insurance definitely has its place.

Who doesn't need pet insurance? Like any insurance – it is a risk management issue. For people with a lot of disposable income – to be honest - you probably don't need insurance. You can afford the care your pet needs when he needs it.

Who can benefit from pet insurance? Anyone on a limited budget could benefit from pet insurance. If a $1000.00 or $2000.00 expense would be difficult for you – then pet insurance could be beneficial. It will not eliminate your entire vet bill but it will substantially help.

There are several insurance companies. Some have been around a long while and others are newer.

My clients that have pet insurance like it. When their pet has a problem, they have the comfort of knowing they can do the best for their pet.

My Final Thoughts – on Pet Insurance

Most pet owners want to do the best for their pets. If you are on a limited budget – consider pet insurance as a part of your pets care. There are several policies that include wellness, vaccinations, mediations or just emergency type treatment. Find out which is best for your situation.

And...if you are considering pet insurance. Consider it when your pet is young. Many older pets are not insurable.

What are your thoughts? Email me!

To learn more about pet insurance, visit Veterinary Pet Insurance

Disclaimer

The Irreverent Vet is a columnist that regularly contributes to PetPlace.com. The goal is to add a balanced and alternative view of some controversial pet issues. As happens with all of us, veterinarians can't say what they really think without offending some clients. This commentary allows vets to say what they think and give you, the pet owner, the opportunity to consider another view. All opinions are those of the Politically Incorrect Vet and not the views of PetPlace.com and are not endorsed by PetPlace.com.