Here a few of my favorite things….

Chocolate.  Grapes. Raisins. Sugar-free gum, mints, peanut butter. Alcohol.  Onions, Garlic. Chives.  Macadamia Nuts.  Avocado. Coffee, Tea. Nutmeg. Peach, Cherry and Apricot Pits.  Vitamins…Supplements….

…But not when our beloved Doggie (or Kitty) gulps them down.  If you’ve ever called poison control in these situations, a visit to emergency Pet care can be scary. And very expensive. Vet ERs (Veg ER in White Plains is great!): Blood tests, IV fluids, overnight observation, Imaging and hospitalization, possible surgery.. you can easily get to $5,000++ for even routine  cases.

So as you think about getting a pet, evaluate your options.  It’s not without drawbacks. Premiums can be costly. A quick guide:

• What is considered a pre-existing condition? Some insurers exclude any condition your pet has ever shown symptoms of.

• What percentage is reimbursed—and after what deductible? Reimbursement can be 70%, 80%, or 90%. Check whether deductible is annual / per incident.

• Annual or lifetime payout limits? Lower premiums sometimes come with caps that may not cover major illnesses or surgeries.

• Claims paid and how long does reimbursement take? Most plans require you to pay upfront and submit claims for reimbursement later.

• Do policy premiums increase as my pet ages? Age-based increases are common and should be factored into long-term cost.

• What is not covered? Always review exclusions.

Your Vet will have an exhaustive list of no-nos.  ASPCA Poison control is amazing and works with ER rooms.  Peace of mind - always a plus.

John Cattau, Managing Partner of Kirk Creek Insurance Services, LLC is a New York State licensed insurance broker BR-1917908. He can be reached on 929-456-2265.  Please visit www.kirkcreekinsurance.com for more information.