Health insurance coverage for our families is a common topic of conversation these days that has also extended to our pets. In today’s Pet Pointers, Lisa Chelenza has more about pet health insurance.

More Americans have pets now than ever before. Along with premium food, pet sitting and training, pet health insurance is becoming more common among new pet parents. It works much like human insurance. You pay a monthly premium into a specified plan, and once the procedure or service is done you are reimbursed by the insurance company.

Pet health insurance plans average around $40 a month covering emergency care, preventive care and illness offering a maximum benefit up to $14,000.

Pet insurance isn’t just for cats and dogs. Veterinary Pet Insurance offers a plan called VPI Avian & Exotic Pet Plan which covers just about any animal such as reptiles, chinchillas, parrots, guinea pigs & birds.

Every company is different and every plan’s coverage is different. You may have many choices that include emergency and or routine care. Ask questions and make sure you get what you need.

Many people spend around $350 on vet care per animal per year. That’s for routine care of a healthy animal. People sometimes decide to put away money on their own, but if an emergency occurs it could cost you thousands of dollars. That same $350 if spent on insurance could be a lifesaver and many plans cost less.

If you think your pet is too old for insurance call for a quote. Some companies will insure an older pet with a slightly higher deductible or premium. Of course, it’s a good idea to insure your pets young. They lack coordination and it’s not uncommon for a puppy or kitten to take a tumble while learning to run and jump.

Before you choose a pet health insurance company, talk to your own vet, as they may have a connection to a certain company and be able to help you get a better rate.

TIP: When looking for pet health insurance, understand what conditions or procedures are not covered!