One of our best health allies is often just a tail wag or purr away. They bring us back from the brink of tears, join in when we feel like cheering and possess uncanny abilities to tame our daily stress. It goes without saying that we embrace dogs and cats as full-fledged family members. Many of us scrutinize pet food labels to pick healthy choices, scour the pet supply store for just the right bed and delight in treating them to oodles of toys. Yet, according to the latest American Pet Products Association’s Pet Owners Survey, only 4% of dog owners and 1% of cat owners carry pet insurance policies. When a pet medical emergency strikes, just how financially prepared are you? Here are reasons why buying pet insurance is a smart move:

• Allows you to pick your veterinarian. Unlike human health insurance policies that may require you to use a specific health care provider, pet insurance policies allow you to obtain care from the veterinarian of your choosing. You simply provide the veterinary bill to the insurance company for reimbursement of qualified expenses.

• Does not discriminate against any breed or age of pet. While it is advisable to obtain pet insurance as soon as you adopt your pet to obtain lower premiums, you can also insure your pet years later.

• Delivers peace of mind. Having pet insurance allows you to choose treatments for your ailing or injured pet based on the best medical option available and not restricted based on family finances. Most pet insurance policies reimburse up to 80% of costs after deductibles.

• Provides an easy way to budget pet care costs. Pet insurance policies can be paid monthly, quarterly, semi-annually, or annually. You decide which payment plan works best for you. Most plans offer discounts for additional pets in the household.

• Prevents dipping into the family’s emergency fund. True, you can set up a pet savings account, but it can be tough to discipline oneself from dipping into this designated account when you face pricey car repairs, household renovations or other major unexpected expenses.

And, most important, pet insurance coverage could save—and extend—the life of your pet by enabling you to authorize the medical treatment your pet needs should he develop cancer, require surgery, or have any other life-threatening emergency or condition. Your pet is part of your family. They mean the world to you. Contact Bon AimEE today to find out how to protect them with a health insurance policy that best fits their needs!