Wellness plans are 'packages' that include routine vet care services offered at a discounted rate. Today, our Everhart Animal Hospital team discusses the benefits of wellness plans, and some things to take into consideration.
What are some benefits of wellness plans?
Although every pet owner should have insurance for their pets, there are a few things to consider. Cost, type of coverage, and your pet's health at the time of policy initiation can all have a significant impact on your monthly payments.
In addition, many pet insurance plans exclude preventive and wellness care such as vet checkups and routine vaccinations, which are especially important for maintaining your pet's health and avoiding costly procedures and treatments in the first place.
Convenience & budgeting
Because Wellness Plans are 'bundles' of veterinary services, you will face less financial stress when bringing your pet in for vet-recommended preventive care services. This payment option allows more pet parents to afford comprehensive veterinary care and avoid potentially costly treatment costs from undiagnosed preventable conditions.
- Can be paid monthly or annually
- Usually includes discounts on certain products and services
- Makes budgeting for pet care easier
Customization & flexibility
At Everhart Animal Hospital, our Wellness Plans cover canine companions and feline friends of all sizes, shapes, and ages. Most wellness plans have options for small, medium, large, XL, and giant dogs, as well as cats, and offer a range of preventive annual and biannual wellness procedures (e.g. wellness exams, bloodwork, parasite testing). As your vet team gets to know your unique pet, they will be able to recommend wellness plans to keep them happy and healthy - and potentially spare your wallet in the long run.
Senior cats and dogs, new puppies and kittens, and pets with chronic or recurring issues all benefit from routine veterinary care, which includes early detection screenings, important preventive vaccinations, and physical examinations.
What are some potential downsides of wellness plans?
As with just about any decision, there are some things to keep in mind when it comes to choosing whether a wellness plan is right for you.
Frequency of use
Subscribing to a wellness plan may seem counter-intuitive if your pet is young, healthy, or otherwise appears to be in good health. Although it is preferable for most people to have coverage and not need it, we recognize that healthcare decisions, whether for humans or their companion animals, are intensely personal and should be made with the patient's best interests in mind, with the advice of a medical professional.
Need for additional coverage
You should be aware of what your vet clinic's wellness plans cover, just as you should be aware of what pet insurance does and does not cover. Wellness plans are intended to provide ongoing preventive and wellness care from your veterinary team and do not cover illness, surgery, or other emergency or chronic healthcare needs. Finally, discussing your pet's needs and your budget openly and honestly with your veterinarian can be a good way to learn more about what might be best for you and your pet.
What is pet insurance?
Should your pet require emergency veterinary care, pet insurance helps you to take care of the cost of treatment.
The truth is that emergency care or treatment for illnesses such as cancer or diabetes can be prohibitively expensive. If you have pet insurance, you will receive financial assistance to pay for any conditions or accidents covered by your pet insurance policy.
What does pet insurance cover?
Pet insurance policies vary, but most cover treatment for illnesses or emergency treatment after accidents. Some policies may also cover prescription medications and the treatment of hereditary, congenital, and orthopedic conditions.
How do I choose which option to buy?
Knowing exactly how wellness plans and pet insurance can benefit you and your pet can assist you in deciding which option is best for you. Some pet owners choose between a wellness plan and pet insurance, while others get both to ensure their pet is fully protected.
If you aren't sure which coverage is right for you, ask your vet. They can help you decide based on your pet's particular needs and concerns.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.