Before purchasing insurance, it is a good idea to discuss the benefit schedules with your vet to determine to what extent the benefits would cover the actual cost of treatment. These plans do not have a benefit schedule that puts limits on the amount they will pay for specific problems. Hereditary defects, medical problems that have required treatment in the recent past are also excluded by some plans. Insurance premiums will vary depending upon the pet's age and the plan selected. Pets of any age can be covered, with coverage for older pets costing more.
Some companies offer multiple pet discounts.
Some charge different rates for dogs and cats and may even have variations depending upon the breed. The best resource for comparing pet insurance policies is the internet. An alternative to insurance is to establish a savings account for your pets. You may still want to invest in commercial insurance for the first few years while your account is low on assets and a young pet may be more prone to getting into medical trouble. Whether you choose to self-insure or to sign up with one of the insurance plans, you need to be prepared financially for a major medical emergency for you pet.