Pet Insurance: To Buy or Not To Buy, Take 2

Last April, I wrote about why people should consider purchasing pet insurance for their pets. It seems a hot topic again this week as one of our volunteers posted about an article on the issue from Salon.com that started a huge discussion, and tonight, WSAV plans to have the story on at 6. It seems the issue is really divided amongst pet lovers, and even amongst our volunteers.

I have kept insurance on my DaVinci since I adopted him at 6 weeks of age. I then kept it on Hannah since I adopted her last year. I'm a single woman who lives on a tight budget as I don't make much from my paying job and have sacrificed to have a home big enough for all the dogs. I can't afford expensive medical treatments, and I was so grateful when DaVinci got mauled to have the insurance cover anything as the bills just kept mounting. I don't have kids, so my dogs are my children. I would be lost without them, so why wouldn't I protect them as others protect their children?

The argument is that pet insurance is too expensive and doesn't cover much. I really think that people saying that are not shopping around. It's like car insurance. Every company has different offerings and coverage levels. You have to find one that works for you. Progressive recently started offering pet insurance to their auto customers. At one time, AAA had a pet insurance program. I personally use Pet Care Insurance as they provide special programs to adopters of new pets to help in the event of extra care being needed. I support them because they support rescue. They are also the same company that provides our microchips, so there are benefits and discounts for using both programs.

If you are not going to buy pet insurance, you should consider setting aside money each month to have as an emergency fund for your pet. I have seen vet care cost people well into $10,000. If you don't have insurance, will you make the decision to permanently let go of your pet or just find a way in that stressful time to raise the funds? The Humane Society of the United States also has some ideas on how to raise money for unexpected vet costs:

• Ask your veterinarian if he or she will let you work out a payment plan.
  
• If you have a specific breed of dog, contact the National Club for that breed. In some cases, these clubs offer a veterinary financial assistance fund.
  
• Ask your veterinarian to submit an assistance request to the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) "Helping Pets Fund."
  
• Use your credit card. Ask for a higher credit limit or a cash advance.
  
• Call your bank. Ask about loan programs, second mortgages, or other options. Consider borrowing from your life insurance policy, vacation savings, kids' education fund, or retirement program.
  
• Ask your employer for a salary advance.
  
• Alert family and friends and ask them each for a $25 loan.
  
• Pawn your stuff. TVs and VCRs can be replaced. Your pet can't.
  
• Consider taking on a part-time job or temping.
  
• Contact the regional office of The HSUS that covers your state. Our regional office staff is often familiar with organizations and personnel within their territory and may be able to direct you to programs in your area.

The HSUS also recommends calling your local animal shelter for assistance. Sadly, most of us cannot afford to help people with their personal pets. We are often taxed enough trying to provide care for the homeless pets already in our programs. If your pet is in need of orthopedic care, you can contact the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine. Also, United Animal Nation offers a LifeLine grant to help pet owners care for animals in life-threatening situations.

Don't wait until the situation arises to decide how to handle emergency care for your pet. Explore your options now and make sure you have a plan. It's much easier than having to decide between your bank account and the life of your pet.