Why is Pet Insurance Important?
Over the past few decades, there has been a increase in the cost of veterinary care. Procedures and treatments now available to our pets have seen many doting pet parents able to save their sick or injured pet’s life. Unfortunately, many of these modern treatments were simply not available , leaving owners with no option but euthanasia.
Today, our pets can battle health related issues such as cancer, severe fractures, tissue trauma, and other illnesses and diseases. However, these advancements in diagnostics and treatment options may also come at a high price. As a result, this may cause pet owners distress during already stressful times.
Pet insurance has emerged as one of the options for many pet owners who want the added security of protecting their pets for eligible vet costs. While some prefer to save for their pet’s medical needs, pet insurance is designed to help pet owners cover the cost of veterinary expenses, as some treatments cost well into the thousands. Many may fall short with the saving approach when the unexpected occurs with their beloved pet.
Australia is known for its love of the great outdoors, warm-hearted communities and is also a nation of devoted pet owners. In fact, we have one of the biggest global companion animal populations in the world. As our furry friends becomes a cherished family member, the importance of protecting their well-being is important. Enter pet insurance – an option increasingly taken by Australian pet parents seeking to provide the best care for their four-legged companions. By considering pet insurance, you may be able to help give your pet the care they deserve.
Do I Need Pet Insurance?
Choosing a pet insurance policy needs careful consideration, particularly considering your lifestyle and budget. In most instances, pet insurance works as a reimbursement option, meaning you will need to cover the entire cost of the vet treatment and then lodge a claim. Ensuring you budget for this is essential. However, there are claim payment options now are available, such as GapOnly®, allowing you to claim on the spot and only pay the gap (the difference between the vet’s invoice and the claim benefit under your policy) at participating veterinary clinic.
Pet insurance in Australia offers different levels of coverage to help with medical expenses when your pet needs it the most. From routine check-ups to unexpected illnesses or accidents, comprehensive coverage may allow pet owners to focus on the health and well-being of their pets while worrying less about the costs during illness or an emergency.
Deciding if you need pet insurance will depend on many factors. Some dog and cat breeds are more susceptible to expensive veterinary treatments, while others are not. It’s also important to assess your financial situation to ensure the product is right for you and your family. Researching pet insurance providers is important, as is reading the fine print on all policy options.
Real-Life Examples
Dash & Pablo
Glorielyn Thew, an avid Dachshund lover, has also seen first-hand the benefits the GapOnly® platform is providing. After both of her precious pups required surgery during the same month, she could care for her beloved dogs without the stress of finding the massive costs to cover treatment.
“Recently, my 2 Miniature Dachshunds, Dash (9yrs) and Pablo (7yrs), required emergency vet care and surgery both within the same month,” she says. “Pablo needed knee surgery for a luxating patella, and Dash required ultrasounds, a CT scan, and partial removal of his liver by a specialist surgeon for a biopsy to check for cancer.”
“It was a traumatic time mentally and financially, but it made an incredible difference to claim on the spot via GapOnly® at each visit, saving me thousands of dollars in upfront vet costs. The final total for weeks of vet care and treatments amounted to around $25,000, and GapOnly® saved me the time and hassle of needing to apply for additional credit cards or personal loans to cover the total cost of all vet bills if their service was unavailable.”
– August 2023
Hobbs & Pearl
“We’ve had Hobbs since he was eight weeks old and we covered him with PIA insurance from the start thankfully! Being a boisterous Labrador he gets himself into all sorts of trouble but he also suffers from allergies and epilepsy which has been a little challenging. We have been amazingly supported by PIA the whole way through, which has made all his treatments possible.
He’s now 4.5 years old and doing great! Six months ago, we decided to bring his Mum, Pearl, home to live with us – the breeder was downsizing their property and looking for loving homes for some of their dogs. We insured her immediately, which comforted us that we would always be able to do the best for her. She has settled in great, and they love being together – mostly. We love them both dearly, and we’re so grateful to PIA for helping us support our little family!”
– August 2023
Is Pet Insurance Right For Me?
Deciding if pet insurance is right for you is a personal choice that needs to be examined deeply to ensure you understand how the product works and if it fits your lifestyle and expectations. Reading the fine print and Product Disclosure Statement is vital, as is conducting sound research on your possible pet insurance provider. This can include review sites, social media and websites.
Many pet parents around Australia know first-hand how their pet insurance policies have saved the lives of their beloved family members. Having a pet insurance policy can offer comfort during high-stress times, allowing pet owners the ability to concentrate on their pet’s health instead of their bank accounts. It also allows many veterinarians comfort knowing they can offer the medical advancements without worrying about the costs that will affect their clients. Pet insurance has allowed countless owners and their pets access to incredible veterinary treatments that have ultimately saved their lives. It also gives a sense of safety, particularly for breeds with a high risk of hereditary complications at some stage of their life.
If you are considering pet insurance, look at our Policy Booklet and Product Disclosure Statement here to see if the product will work for you and your pet. You can also get a quick online quote and get your pet signed up in simple steps.
