People consider pets as part of the family and as health becomes a more pressing issue in our country, people are putting extra thought and care into their pets’ health as well,” said BobVetere, President of APPMA.
Caring for one’s pet’s health is the most powerful trend across the industry with store shelves being lined with a plethora of weight management foods, sports drinks, energy treats, treatments and supplements, as well as an increase in organic and all natural offerings. Pet insurance, veterinary care and pharmaceuticals are also strong and continue to see healthy growth.
Pet Health Insurance: Can You Afford To Be Without It?
Especially if you have several pets, veterinary insurance can seem like an expense you can do without.
After all, most pets are hardy and rarely need much more than jabs. However, this is far from the reality.
One source estimates that in any year, half of all pets will require veterinary attention, at an average
cost of over $400. If you can manage the payments, pet insurance is worth it. Yet less than 2% of US pets are insured, compared to 20% in Britain and 50% in Norway.
If you have a healthy pet and haven’t seen the vet lately, you might get a shock on your next visit. Veterinary medicine has advanced, with vets acquiring more specialized equipment and trained auxiliary
staff that both have to be paid for somehow. Don’t expect consultation fees to have stayed the same;
one animal charity estimates the rise at 12% per annum – well above inflation.
Reality may bite only when disaster strikes. Accidents can happen to any pet. Age catches up and pets
may suddenly develop diseases that require expensive drugs or surgery. Diagnosis alone can be expensive.
X-raying may require anesthesia. Blood analysis, biopsies and other procedures mean bills speedily stack up.
A worst case scenario is one where owners cannot afford to continue with either treatment procedures
or the investigations required for diagnosis. The outcome can be that animals that could be treated have
to be euthanansed. Though vets may negotiate payment, don’t bank on it. Some veterinary surgeries are businesses first, animal services second. Animal charities may help, but may only aid financially in restricted
QuickCare offers coverage for your dog or cat and financial protection for you!
Your pet is a part of your family, so prepare for the unexpected. At QuickCare, we're committed to eliminating the financial stress associated with your dog's or cat's healthcare needs through a selection of affordable pet insurance programs.
Consider these facts
OOne in three pets will need emergency veterinary treatment every year.
Two out of every three pets experience a significant health problem during their lifetime
