Pet insurance: protect your dog or cat as they deserve it
What if tomorrow your dog swallows something it shouldn't and you end up in the emergency room? What if your cat escapes and causes an accident? Although no one wants to imagine it, the reality is that our pets, like any member of the family, can face unforeseen events. At such times, having a pet insurance can make a difference. And best of all: you don't need to wait for it to become mandatory to make a decision that can save lives (and pockets).
What is pet insurance?
A pet insurance is a contract with an insurance company that helps you to cover the expenses that your pet, mainly dogs or cats, may generate. This type of insurance can include anything from veterinary assistance to civil liability if your pet causes damage to third parties.
Although it is usually associated only with medical treatment, there are very comprehensive policies that offer additional guarantees such as theft, loss, death by accident or even legal assistance.
Protect the one who is always with you
Take out insurance for your pet and look after it as part of the family, with veterinary assistance, civil liability and more.
Is it compulsory to take out insurance for dogs or cats?
No, pet insurance is not compulsory. At least not in most cases. There is a very important distinction to be made:
- It is not compulsory insure your dog or cat as a general rule.
- Yes, it is compulsory have a civil liability insurance for dogs considered potentially dangerousas indicated in the regulations in force in many autonomous communities.
That said, some pet insurances already include this liability cover, so you could have it all in one policy.
What does pet insurance cover?
Most insurers offer different levels of cover. These are the most common guarantees you can find:
1. Veterinary care
It includes visits to the vet, surgeries, hospitalisation, vaccinations, tests and treatment in case of illness or accident. In some cases they also cover chronic or hereditary diseases.
2. Liability
If your dog bites someone or causes an accident, this guarantee covers personal injury or material damage to third parties. This cover is compulsory only in the case of potentially dangerous dogs.
3. Theft or loss
In the event that your pet is lost or stolen, some policies cover the costs of finding it, or even compensation if it is not found.
4. Death by accident
Some insurers offer financial compensation if your pet dies as a result of a covered accident.
5. Stay in residence
If you are hospitalised and unable to care for your pet, some policies will arrange temporary accommodation.
How to choose the best insurance for your pet?
Before hiring a dog insurance or a cat insuranceIn this context, several factors should be taken into account:
- Age and breed of your petSome insurers have age limits or exclude breeds with common hereditary diseases.
- Coverage you really needIt is not always necessary to take out the most expensive package. Sometimes a good veterinary cover is enough.
- Budget availableCompare prices and check if you can assume a small excess to lower the cost of the insurance.
- Veterinarians in partnershipSome policies only cover specific clinics. Others reimburse you no matter which vet you go to.
How much does pet insurance cost?
The price of an insurance policy varies according to the coverage, the age of the animal and the breed. As a guideline:
- A basic dog insurance can be around 80 to 150 euros per year.
- A full insurance with all the guarantees can cost between 180 and 300 euros per year.
- For cats, the price is usually somewhat lower.
The key is to weigh the cost against the benefit. A single veterinary emergency can easily exceed €300, so in many cases insurance is not only useful, but cost-effective.
When is it convenient to hire it?
Ideally, as soon as possible. From the age of 3 months, your pet can be insured. Moreover, if you do it when it is still young and healthy, the premiums will be cheaper and you will be sure that there are no exclusions due to previous illnesses.
Insurance not compulsory, but highly recommended
Although the pet insurance is not compulsory, it is highly recommended. Not only because it can save you a lot of money, but also because it shows that you really care about your animal.
Many people only consider this type of insurance when they have already had a problem. But when it comes to our furry friends, it's better to be safe than sorry.
Conclusion: Take care of your pet today as you would like to be taken care of yourself.
Pet insurance is not just an economic tool. It's a way to show responsibility and love for our four-legged companions. Whether you have an unruly puppy or a senior cat, having a back-up in case of unforeseen events will give you peace of mind.
Remember: there is no need to wait for it to become mandatory. To click here insurance for dogs or cats can be the difference between an emergency with no solution... or a simple procedure with a happy ending.