Since we are in our mid-20’s, our bank account is not up there and an accident (hate to mention it) would probably clear us out. I enjoy our plan and I do not see us unsubscribing for a while.

the first question I have to ask anyone considering pet insurance is the following: How much do you love your pet?

It might seem harsh, but I wrote an article earlier this year called “Determine how much your pet is worth”, in which I discussed some issues that we take for granted about pet care costs.

I often think about hte issues related to the “supersize me” movie, in that what goes into a body, in this case a pet’s body, determines what long term health a pet has. Any person would not think twice about insuring a son or daughter. We do this because we love our children.

But why not spend some money to make sure our loved pet is healthy and happy for as long as possible. After all, do they not bring happiness into our lives? I recently lost a dog that I had for 11+ years. He meant the world to me. Heck, he out lasted my marriage, and he was always the best friend a person could have. He died due to an unknown mass near his heart and other health issues.

At that time in my life I was divorced, bankrupt, and lost my house. But I would have done anything to make his life better. To that end, I bought a small house, got back on my feet, and took the best care of him I could before he passed away. He stayed with me for almost 2 more years after his diagnosis. Those two years he was still very vibrant and happy.

So when considering health care costs for your pets, I implore you, to weigh the options carefully. Treat your pet like they are part of the family. How heart broken would you or your children be if you lost your pet due to something that could have been avoided. It may not affect the adults as much, but children will hold onto resentment of a lost pet for a long time. I know I would not tell my children that a few dollars a month is not worth keeping their pets healthy.

- Just my opinions

Thanks for listening.
Derek Wood – Canine-Health-Care.com

Watch your pets for any signs of a urinary infection; straining, squatting multiple times, a drop of blood underneath them where it should NOT be. You won’t see them grab their private parts, nor will they cry or let you know. If you suspect something, take them in for a quick UA at the vet’s office; will cost you about $40. Here is the kicker; have two vets! Take your pet once a year to one vet just for their shots, but have another vet you really like for an ICE (in case of emergency); this vet is your saviour; larger clinics generally have more cases and can help make wiser choices for you and your pet. Take the UA to the “just shots vet”; they will look at the pH, sediment, color, bacteria and the “specific gravity”. If the latter is not within range and/or they see “crystals”….go buy the pet insurance within a few hours – if oyur dog is not a senior, this is easy and quick….just do it! Then as soon as you can, take your dog to the other vet and tell them you see “funny signs”. Now you are covered. IF your pet has stones and requires surgery ($1500-2000) you are covered. Oxalate stones? The pet will more than likely get them again – but whew…you are covered. I wish I would have thought of this before. Having the insurance now means you won’t have to “make that decision.” Be prepared otherwise; we all have our limits. Thankfully for me and my pets, I have money in my savings. While it hurts to write out a big check, I am single and my two Jack Russells are all I have. If you feel similarly, please take heed.