Are you a pet owner wondering if pet insurance is worth the investment? As much as you love your furry friend, unexpected health issues can quickly lead to costly veterinary bills. This is where pet insurance can come in handy. However, before you commit to a policy, it’s important to understand the pros and cons of pet insurance.
Our First-hand Experience with Pet Insurance: PAWP
For example, we use PAWP for our pet insurance. PAWP is a subscription-based pet telemedicine company that provides pet owners with 24/7 access to licensed veterinarians via video chat or text. Their service is designed to provide pet owners with peace of mind by allowing them to connect with veterinarians who can provide guidance and advice on a wide range of pet health issues. In addition to telemedicine services, PAWP offers pet insurance plans that cover everything from accidents and illnesses to routine preventive care. Their mission is to make pet care more accessible, affordable, and convenient for pet owners everywhere.
So It was a super-scary moment for us when our 13-year-old Tabby cat Roxy had a seizure out of the blue. We managed to record the episode on video, which only added to our fear and worry. With no time to waste, we ran to the closest ER, while in the car still outside the ER we used our pet insurance provider, PAWP’s app to notify them (prior to actually going in), which we pay $20/month for. They confirmed for us to take Roxy in to the animal emergency right away and they would provide more info in a follow up text. 2 minutes later the ER had her in and started on blood tests and we got this text (see screenshots below) from PAWP’s app.
After a series of tests, it was determined that Roxy’s blood pressure and thyroid needed daily medication to manage and prevent this from happening again. Thankfully, Roxy is okay now and has been since we were able to manage it in time. But, I didn’t follow PAWP’s protocol and thus was essentially denied coverage because they determined I used ER services before logging into their app, which isn’t technically true. But, its a good example to ensure you know what you need to do in the case of an emergency to ensure you are able to be covered when/if an emergency does occur.
What We Learned
We are obviously not pleased by the decision of PAWP to deny Roxy’s claim. Without thinking we jumped in the car and started driving to the animal emergency. Technically we should have, first, hopped on their app, waited to get connected with a vet, explained why happened and then left for the emergency room. We were a bit freaked out to do so and as a result, per PAWP’s exclusions and limitations, we were denied. Due of the fact we did not take the time to use their app and service before driving to the ER. And, yes we did leave for the ER and we did arrive in the lot prior to using the PAWP app (and my wife really wasn’t going to wait for me to upload a file, text or speak to anyone when the ER was right there), that is on me. Still, it kind of felt that it was a bit of a loop hole, but yes we didn’t follow their specific requirements and as such our claim was denied. I get it, but just be VERY aware of the specific pet insurance requirements.
Pros of Pet Insurance
Financial Protection
Pet insurance can provide financial protection in case your pet gets sick or injured. With the increasing cost of veterinary care, pet insurance can help cover the expenses of unexpected medical bills.
Peace of Mind
Customizable Plans
Pet insurance plans can be customized to meet your pet’s specific needs. You can choose coverage options that work best for your pet’s age, breed, and health status.
Additional Perks
Some pet insurance policies come with additional perks such as discounts on pet products or services, access to telemedicine, and more.
Cons of Pet Insurance
Cost
The cost of pet insurance can be a significant factor for some pet owners. Monthly premiums can add up quickly, especially for policies that offer comprehensive coverage.
Pre-Existing Conditions
Pre-existing conditions are usually not covered by pet insurance. If your pet has a pre-existing condition, you may have to pay out of pocket for any related medical expenses.
Exclusions and Limitations
Some pet insurance policies have exclusions and limitations that may not cover certain medical procedures or conditions. It’s important to read the fine print and understand what is and isn’t covered under your policy.
Deductibles and Co-Pays
Like human health insurance, pet insurance policies often come with deductibles and co-pays. These out-of-pocket costs can add up over time, especially if your pet requires frequent veterinary care.
In conclusion, pet insurance can be a valuable investment for pet owners looking to protect their furry friends from unexpected medical expenses. However, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons and choose a policy that meets your pet’s specific needs and your budget. By doing your research and understanding what you’re paying for, you can make an informed decision about whether pet insurance is worth it for you and your pet.