Hey fellow pet lovers!

Let’s talk about something that’s been on our mind lately – those pesky veterinary bills!

If you’ve ever been shocked by a vet’s bill, you’re not alone. With costs for pet surgeries and treatments soaring, pet insurance is becoming a must-have in your financial planning toolkit.

Just to give you an idea of what we’re dealing with here, check out these eye-watering costs.

These are actual claims recently paid by GENRIC Pet Insurance. Can you believe it?

The cost of treating our furry friends is creeping up to the same level as human healthcare.

So, what’s a pet owner to do? Well, covering these hefty costs with pet insurance is a pretty good start.

Why Pet Insurance is a must!

Alfred Wilsenach, Divisional Manager Underwriting at GENRIC Insurance Company, has some wise words on this topic. He points out that vet bills are rising due to advancements in medical technology and a shortage of veterinary professionals in South Africa. Without pet insurance, you might find yourself in a tight spot, struggling to pay for lifesaving treatments out of pocket.

Imagine having to fork out R40k for an emergency surgery. That’s a lot of money!

Many vets also require at least a 50% upfront payment before they’ll even start treatment, which can be a huge hurdle if you’re not prepared. Pet insurance is all about peace of mind and making sure your pet gets the best care, without you having to empty your savings.

The Real Deal on Pet Insurance

Pet insurance isn’t just for emergencies – it’s also a smart way to manage the costs of routine care like vaccinations. If you have multiple pets, those vet bills can add up fast. Alfred points out that a single R43k surgery could be equivalent to about nine years of pet insurance premiums. Now that’s some serious value for money!

What to look for in a Pet Insurance Policy

Not all pet insurance policies are created equal, so here’s a handy checklist to help you choose the right one:

• Payment Caps and Limits: Make sure you know the policy’s cap on specific treatments and the total annual payout per pet.
• Vet Choices: Check if you can take your pet to any registered vet, including your favorite one or emergency specialists.
• Multi-Pet Discounts: Look for policies that offer discounted rates for multiple pets. Every bit helps!
• Age Limits: Some policies have age limits. With GENRIC Pet Insurance, there’s no age limit as long as you enrol your pet before they turn 9.
• Pre-Existing Conditions: Understand exclusions for pre-existing conditions. It’s crucial to get insurance while your pet is healthy.
• Hereditary and Breed Restrictions: Make sure the policy doesn’t exclude hereditary conditions or specific breeds. GENRIC Pet Insurance covers hereditary conditions if they’re not present at the policy’s start.
• Coverage Details: Know exactly what you’re covered for. Accident-only plans won’t cover illnesses unrelated to accidents.

In Conclusion:

Pet insurance is more than just a nice-to-have, it’s a necessity for modern pet owners. With the rising cost of veterinary care, having a good pet insurance policy can save you a lot of money and heartbreak.

So, take the time to explore your options and get the best coverage for your furry family members.