Across the country, pets are a major part of many families. Over 38% of American homes have a dog, and over 25% of households include at least one cat. Of the 70% of families with pets, less than ten percent had purchased pet insurance for their furry family members. The truth is that many simply don’t know about this option to protect their pet.

Though pet insurance is a great way to protect your dog or cat, it’s not as widely known in the United States as other types of coverage. Policies to protect companion animals have been written around the world since the early 1900s. Still, it wasn’t until 1982 that the first pet insurance policy issued in the US was written for a famous TV collie named Lassie. Since then, policies like this have helped families provide their furry loved ones with top-quality care without surprise veterinary bills. Check out four ways a policy can help to keep your pet safe, and talk to Westwood to find coverage that’s right for you.

Accidents

If your pet is injured, you can focus on helping them feel better without worrying about the cost. Pet insurance generally covers injuries caused by accidents, such as broken bones, cuts, and bites. Covered care can include X-rays, MRI scans, ultrasounds, sutures, medication, surgery, and if needed, hospitalization.

If you must visit a veterinarian at an emergency clinic, it will probably cost more than your pet’s regular doctor. The same is true if your cat or dog needs to be seen by a veterinary specialist. Check your policy to see if you need a referral before taking your pet to a specialist, such as an ophthalmologist, orthopedic specialist, or oncologist. Some companies allow you to choose your own doctors, while others have already established a network of professionals.

Alternative therapies

Some pet insurance policies will also offer options for alternative therapies to help your cat or dog feel better. These treatments can include acupuncture and hydrotherapy. Complementary treatments like these are non-invasive ways to help your pet manage pain or other conditions. You’ll need to check with your pet insurance provider. Some include coverage for these treatments as part of a standard policy, while others offer options as additional endorsements.

Illness

With policies that include illness coverage, costs are covered or reimbursed for major and minor illnesses. Covered conditions can include cancer, hypothyroidism, arthritis, epilepsy, and digestive issues. The policy can cover expenses for bloodwork and other diagnostics and then treatments to help your pet get better.

Cancer is an unfortunate and all too common diagnosis among pets. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, as many as 25% of pets will be diagnosed with cancer at some point. Because the diagnosis and treatment for cancer can be so expensive, it can be a big relief for families that pet insurance will cover the cost. Coverage typically includes diagnostics, radiation, chemotherapy, rehabilitation, and other needed care so you can focus on helping your pet get well and not worry about the bills.

Genetic conditions

You might be surprised to hear that inherited conditions can be covered by pet insurance. Some companies offer this coverage as an additional endorsement, and other providers include this protection in their standard pet insurance policy. You don’t have to worry about surprise vet bills even if your pet has a genetic or congenital condition like heart disease, intervertebral disk disease (IVDD), various eye disorders, or hip dysplasia. Providers may cover diagnostic testing, surgery, and rehabilitation for these issues, but check your policy to learn more.

Take care of your furry loved onesLife is full of unexpected surprises. That’s why insurance helps to give people peace of mind. With pet insurance, you can extend that peace of mind to caring for your cats and dogs. You’ll rest easy knowing you can always provide excellent care for your pets without the surprise vet bills. Talk to your independent Westwood agent to find the right policy to keep every family member safe.

4. Have a backup plan

Please Note: This article is for general informational and educational purposes only. It does not represent any specific insurance policy and does not modify any provisions, limitations, or exclusions of any current policy.