Recently, Pet Insurance has become a bit of a hot topic. There are a number of reasons why someone would pull up their eyebrows when Pet Insurance is mentioned, most of the time it is when someone wonders if it isn’t just a big waste of money. The principal reason why people will get Pet Insurance is to cover any veterinary bills that will pop up during your pet’s life time. In fact, it covers a lot more, but is it something you need, and what is the alternative?

Can my pet get covered?

In general, it is very easy to get find cover for average household pets, like cats and dogs. These can start from R125 per month depending on the cover you choose.

Smaller pets, like rabbits, rats and hamster, have a much shorter lifespan and insurance for them are arguable.

Exotic pets, like lizards and snakes, are a little harder to ensure, but is definitely worth looking into.

Please take note that most venomous pets will not be covered, but you may be able to add them into a liability insurance. Check with your insurer about this first.

Older pets are likely to be more expensive to ensure, as they will need to be tended more often and visits to the vet are more regular.

What will the insurance cover?

Vet bills: Make sure about any excesses and what the maximum value per visit your insurance will cover.

Lost or Theft: Especially of you have a pedigree pet. Some insurers may even help with the costs of advertising or reward monies.

Behavioural Problems: Some good policies will cover this if done under the guidance of a recommended professional or vet.

Cattery and Kennel Fees: In the case that your fur baby needs to stay for a hospital visit over a few days.

Dental Care: Some insurers will cover this if it is needed due to injury or illness, but not for cosmetic works.

Inherited Conditions: Conditions that your pet may have been born with or developed through inherited characteristics.

It is important to fully understand what your pet is covered for and shopping around for a good policy is ideal. Where some insurers may cover some of the above, others may cover them all and more. Be careful to choose the policy that will suit your pet throughout their live spans, taking into consideration all the things that might happen as they get older. There are ways to save on policies too, for example, you might save if your pet is spayed or neutered and has a microchip identifier.

What is the alternative?

Self -insurance means that you diligently save money every month to use exclusively toward any treatments that your pet may need. Be aware that sometimes treatment is needed before an adequate amount can be put together. Others simply pay as and when is necessary, but this could mean that you will not be able to afford larger bills and could end up losing a beloved pet.

KIB can assist you in carefully considering the benefits of having insurance for your pets. We can help you to understand exactly what you will be covered for and can give you the peace of mind to know that you have a safety net in place for your treasured four-legged family member. Contact KIB today to find out more about options in Pet Insurance.