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Did you know that 1 in 3 pets require veterinary emergency treatment yearly? The statistics show a significant need for pet insurance. What is pet insurance and how does pet insurance work? That is one of the most vital questions any pet owner should ask.

Pet insurance involves a health care policy that offers reimbursement for pet health expenses that the policy covers. It can help you cover unexpected costs when your pet has an emergency. Below you will find a comprehensive guide on pet insurance.

Which animals can be insured?

Pet insurance covers any animal you are not keeping for financial gain but for sentimental value, companionship, or comfort. Most leading pet insurance companies, such as Spokk, only have insurance for dogs and cats. Other types of pets that you can insure are:

• Rabbits
• Rats
• Birds
• Reptiles
• Ferrets
• Guinea pigs
• Mice
• Hedgehogs
• Potbellied pigs
• Mini goats

Some of the things that the insurance will cover include:

• Emergency examination and treatment fees;
• Unexpected accidents or injuries like broken bones or the ingestion of foreign objects;
• Medications;
• Surgery, nursing care, and hospitalization;
• Unexpected illnesses;
• Diagnostics/tests such as MRIs, blood tests, and x-rays;
• Breed-specific conditions;
• Rehabilitation and therapy;
• Specialist care ad ER;

Which breeds are most often insured?

Pet breed, health, and behavioral factors can impact the necessity for pet insurance. Some breeds may have expensive medical conditions as they age. Thus, it is vital to know the top animals that require pet insurance. Below is a list of five dogs and four cat breeds that people often insure.

5 dog breeds that people often insure

1.    Chihuahua

A Chihuahua can have a life expectancy of 12 to 20 years. It is fluffy, social, high-strung, and miniature. The pet’s size ensures that it can have various health problems necessitating pet insurance. Its small stature makes it susceptible to collapsed trachea, tooth and gum disease, obesity, and overfeeding.

2.    Rottweiler

A Rottweiler has a life expectancy of 8 to 10 years. Its anatomy enables the breed to perform heavy physical labor. Some health issues the dogs may have as they age include hip dysplasia that needs corrective surgery.

3.    Shih Tzu

Shih Tzu is a purebred, charming, playful, affectionate, and outgoing dog. Its life expectancy ranges between 10 to 16 years. It is most likely to suffer from some genetic disorders such as dry corneas, cataracts, and kneecap and hip issues.

4.    Border Collie

Border Collies are smart and have a life expectancy of 10 to 17 years. 75% of the dog breed are susceptible to optic nerve colobomas, which may lead to vision damage. Thus, Border Collie owners need pet insurance, which may help them cover treatment costs in case of illness manifestation.

5.    Poodle

Poodles are excellent show and family dogs. However, they stand a higher risk of getting Addison’s disease. The illness’s symptoms include nausea, lethargy, decreased appetite, and dehydration.

4 cat breeds that people often insure

1.    Siamese

A Siamese is a blue-eyed, playful, and very intelligent cat. However, it is susceptible to cancer like mammary tumors, mediastinal lymphoma, and lung cancer. The treatments available may need you to get insurance to help cover payments.

2.    Persian

Persian cats have short muzzles and long coats. They have brachycephalic anatomy that can ensure they have dental diseases, upper respiratory infections, and breathing difficulties. In addition, Persians are susceptible to eye and ski conditions.

3.    Scottish Fold

A Scottish Fold has an owl-like appearance. It has a dominant gene mutation responsible for the ear’s outward and downfold. The cat requires pet insurance as its defects can ensure arthritis and ear issues.

4.    Bengal

Bengals have high energy levels that ensure they are very restless. Their restless nature enhances their chances of ingesting foreign bodies, which can lead to medical emergencies. Thus, most Bengal owners require an accident-only cover that can help cover the costs of unexpected injuries.

What do you need to insure your pet?

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A significant part of pet insurance requirements involves asking how pet insurance works. The answer to the question will help you determine what you need for pet insurance. Most pet insurance companies require a comprehensive pet health check-up before providing coverage. The check-up will help you know the medical state of your pet.

You will also need to pay premiums for the insurance coverage to be valid. The amount you pay can depend on factors such as location, age, breed, or species. There is also a waiting period before you can use the insurance. For instance, accident coverage can have 14 days as the waiting period.

In conclusion

Is your pet prone to injury or has an illness history? If yes, then pet insurance can come in handy. Pet insurance aims to protect pet owners from unexpected medical costs. It can save you if you do not have readily available cash for medical emergencies like surgery.