Consumers have spent more money than ever before — $60.28 billion — caring for their pets, according to the American Pet Products Association. And it doesn’t all go to kibble. Vet costs were the second-highest expense for pet owners in 2015. Here’s a look at pet bills, plus why pet insurance could be your best bet.
Initial Costs
If you’re considering getting a pet, you may be in for an expensive surprise. Many people underestimate the up-front costs of pet ownership. There are adoption and medical fees that need to be paid, including fees for a bevvy of vaccinations. Also, your pet may need to be spayed or neutered.
To save on adoption costs, visit your local humane society and see if you connect with one of the senior dogs or cats. While just as loving, senior animals sometimes struggle to find forever homes. Therefore, shelters often discount their adoption costs. Shelters can sometimes provide lower-cost initial checkups and treatments, too.
Health Emergency Costs
What dog owner hasn’t had to wrestle something harmful out of their pup’s mouth? If your dog or cat ingests something harmful, it can cost you big bucks. According to CBS, if your pup swallows a foreign object, it will cost an average of $1,728 to treat. If your animal mistakes something toxic for a tasty treat, you’re looking at an unexpected bill of $6,500, reported Preventitive Vet.
Accidents happen no matter how careful you are with your pet. What will you do if your pet slips by you and is struck by a car? To pay for the necessary surgeries, you’ll need to come up with thousands of dollars. Many vets offer payment plans or flex pricing that can help make costs more manageable. However, these aren’t always available nor do they fit every financial situation. When a medical emergency occurs, you can reduce stress and ensure your pet gets adequate care by investing in pet insurance.
Major Illness Costs
No one likes to imagine their pet injured or unwell, but health problems happen. According to Fortune, the cancer bills for a dog can add up to $30,000 or more. Without insurance, you may find yourself having to make a choice between your pet’s future and your financial goals.
Pet Insurance Can Help
Fortunately, you don’t have to live with the threat of a massive pet bills hanging over your head. Through the TotalChoiceTM Voluntary Benefits Program, you can get a pet insurance policy that could pay for the medical care “Rover” and “Fluffy” need.
Look into an insurance policy early on in your pet ownership journey. Pet insurance typically covers a variety of medical problems related to accidents and illnesses for dogs and cats. There’s nothing like the peace of mind that comes with knowing you can get your pet the care they deserve without breaking the bank.
Don’t let medical expenses keep you from letting a furry friend bring joy to your life. Budget and plan ahead for unexpected costs so you can enjoy your loyal companion without worries.
