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Veterinary bills worry owners (December 06, 2008)
The high cost of veterinary bills is just one area causing concern to pet owners, but there is peace of mind to be had if you get active to find solutions.
A recent survey by Saga Pet Insurance of its pet insurance policy holders discovered that older pet owners have a number of concerns, not least of which was the cost of their special and cherished pets. And large vet bills, the cost of medicines and insurance came out at the top of the list.
The top 10 things pet owners said they worried about were:
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Large vet bills (93%)
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Losing a pet (92%)
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Cost of medicines (84%)
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Adequately insured (82%)
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The pet being stolen (73%)
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Maintaining a healthy diet (72%)
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Maintaining a healthy coat (67%)
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Ensuring adequate exercise (54%)
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Pet being over or under weight (53%)
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Quality of boarding kennels (46%)
However, the good news is that the worry of many of these items can be reduced by taking simple precautions. We don't know of any country where there is an NHS or equivalent for pets; and since vet bills are continually rising, it is worth taking precautions and looking into pet insurance. It is highly unlikely to cover the routine commitments which come with pet ownership - such as neutering, microchipping or annual vaccinations - but it will help cover the cost of unexpected accidents and illnesses.
The range of items covered by insurers varies, but many (not all, so check) offer cover for:
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alternative therapies such as homeopathy, acupuncture, and herbal medicines;
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advertising or rewards for stolen pets
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boarding kennel or cattery fees if you have to go into hospital
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third party liability if your pet should cause accidental injury, damage or loss to person or property
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some pay for one session with a behaviour consultant, should the need to work with one arise
Many pet insurers also offer bereavement support lines when your pet dies but you need to ensure that counsellors have been properly trained. (The Pet Bereavement Support Service does train its counsellors.)
Most pet insurers will not cover pre-existing conditions which your pet may come with, and a number won't cover certain breeds at all.
Pet Insurance for Older Animals
As pets get older, like people they succumb to more illnesses and health problems and consequently some pet insurers won't cover pets who are older than an age such as 8. However, there are those that do, such as ethical pet insurers Animal Friends (who also help animal charities worldwide). (We insure our dog through Animal Friends, and they've been brilliant.)
Review your pet's health and wellbeing needs with your vet
It is a good idea to ask your vet to give your pets a thorough examination when you take them in for their routine vaccinations and to discuss any worries you have about the condition of their coat, diet and exercise needs. There are a lot of products on the market now which can prevent problems arising in the first place - such as flea treatments for cats and dogs, and products to help birds with moulting. Click here to return to the News page
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