There are a lot of things that pet owners do to protect their pets, but one of the most overlooked ways to safeguard your furry friends is through reliable pet health insurance. We’re going to look at 11 of the best reasons why pet owners should consider taking out insurance on their cats, dogs, birds or other animals.

1. Money for Expensive Surgery- Some medical procedures for pets are incredibly expensive. They aren’t something just anyone can pay for, because the money may not be available. Pet insurance gives you a way to pay for medical procedures that would otherwise be too expensive.

2. Multiple Options- If you don’t have much money, then your options are limited when it comes to treating your pet in an emergency. Pet insurance allows you to choose more options for caring for your pet.

3. A Help Line- Pet insurance also gives you access to professional advice that can help you decide how to handle a tough situation. You may not be sure what to do when your pet is seriously injured, and your insurance company can cover consultation fees for you.

4. Peace of Mind- Why worry about whether you will be able to care for your pet? If you have pet insurance covering any potential medical problems, then you don’t have to wonder what you will do in the event of an emergency. You know you can take care of your pet no matter what, and that can help you sleep at night.

5. A Safety Net for Travel- Your pet insurance can also cover you when you travel with your pet. It can take care of unexpected expenses for you, such as shots, lodging and special medical treatments required for pets that are entering new environments. You want your pet to be comfortable no matter where you are, and pet insurance allows you to do that. You never know what kind of expenses you will run into or how limited your resources will be when travelling, so it’s good to have pet insurance there to watch out for your loved one.

6. Pay Your Way- Most pet insurance policies allow you to pay the way that is most comfortable for you. In general, you will pay up front and be reimbursed later on, but when that is not possible, the insurance company can work out other payment options with you to find something that works with your budget and schedule. You may be surprised at how flexible payment can be and how willing the insurance company is to work you on financial problems.

7. Your Choice of Vet- With pet insurance, you get to choose the veterinarian to take care of your pet. You aren’t just limited to whoever is nearby or whoever the insurance company has agreements with. You get to pick your veterinarian to ensure that your pet has the best care and that you have a convenient place to take your pet in an emergency.

8. Helps You Budget Costs- You may have some trouble controlling your spending or planning your budget, but if you know how much you are paying each month for pet insurance, then you don’t have to save out a lot of money to deal with an emergency for your pets. You can simply count on the money you spend on the premiums to cover your pet’s medical expenses when they occur.

9. Keeps You from Plundering the Savings- With pet insurance taking care of your pet’s medical bills, you won’t have to go into your savings account each time your pet needs some treatment.

10. Better Quality of Life- Pet insurance also allows you to have your pet treated on a regular basis. You are more likely to take your pet for treatment when it is needed when you have pet insurance than you are if you had no insurance.

11. Keeps Your Pet Alive Longer- Better care, more regular care and the veterinarian of your choice all mean that your pet is likely to live longer. Pet insurance allows for better care.