What Pet Insurance Covers
Each pet insurance company will offer a different range of policies with different options, and the level of cover will vary - not least according to how much you pay each month!
There are, however, quite a few standard cover features that you should be on the lookout for when deciding which policiy to take out.
Veterinary Fees
This is probably the most common reason for insuring your pet. With fees for treating even a fairly minor injury easily running into 3 figures, and therapy for a major illness costing thousands, it's not hard to see the benefits should your pet need treatment. Of course, most people will pay more in premiums than they receive in claims (that's how insurance companies make profits!), but if you're unlucky enough to need veterinary attention for your pet, you'll be glad you had insurance. Is it worth it? Only you can make that decision.
You should also be aware that certain kinds of vet fees aren't covered.
Loss and Reward Money
Thousands of pets go missing every year, and most pet insurers will pay out to cover expenses involved in finding your pet and returning him home. This can include advertising costs, reward money, and more. You may also be eligible for a compensation payment if your pet goes missing, especially if it's of a pedigree breed or is an exotic animal.
Liability
Regardless of mild mannered, tame, and friendly your pet is, you have to remember that it's still an animal, and closely related to its wild cousins. It's an unfortunate fact that people are injured by pets, whether their own or someone elses, although it is of course fairly rare. However, should your pet harm someone else in any way, or damage their property, you could easily be facing court action for compensation and damages.
This is especially important for dog owners, where a compensation claim could run into many thousands in today's litigous world. Most policies will include public liability cover for exactly this situation, and will pay out for any compensation awarded against you so long as you've taken reasonable precautions against your pet causing harm.
DISCLAIMER: All content is for guidance only and does not constitute financial advice.
www.petinsuranceinfo.co.uk is not authorised by the FSA to advise on insurance matters.
