In America, we’re crazy about our pets, and anyone who has ever taken their pet to a veterinarian, the costs can be prohibitive, and that’s where pet insurance comes in.

Montana Insurance Commissioner Matt Rosendale is urging pet and horse owners to consider all their options when obtaining animal insurance.

“Last year alone nationwide, Americans spent over $16 billion dollars in veterinary care for their pets and animals,” said spokesman Kyle Schmauch. “It’s a huge cost, and anytime there’s something of value, whether it’s your health, your pet’s health or your property, there is an insurance product to go along with it.”

A pet health insurance policy reimburses the pet owner for specified veterinary care. As with your health insurance policy, these policies typically itemize covered treatments, deductibles (the amount you're responsible to pay) and lifetime or per illness maximums. The cost of the policy may vary based on the amount and type of coverage as well as the breed or species.

Pet injury coverage may be part of your auto insurance policy. It covers the treatment of a pet injured in a car accident up to a set limit. Check with your insurance agent or company to determine if your auto policy includes coverage for a pet traveling in your car.

A pet life insurance policy covers end-of-life costs for your animal. This can include burial or cremation expenses.

Schmauch said all reputable insurance carriers must be registered through the Montana State Insurance Commissioner’s office, and they welcome any questions from consumers looking for information about pet health or pet life insurance, however, there are some red flags to watch out for.

“As with any type of insurance or security, there can be fraud or scams,” he said. “Be wary of people contacting you unsolicited or really pushing hard for a sale using aggressive sales tactics, and in any case, please feel free to contact our office by calling 1-800-332-6148.”

 

 

 

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