Imperative ways to ensure your pet leads a long, happy and healthy life
As much as we can’t imagine a life without our pets, the future is never guaranteed. For some of us, making long-term plans for our pets might not be something that is of mind. But you need to consider what might happen to your pet should something happen to you? And, what might happen to your bank account should something happen to your pet resulting in expensive vet bills?
Unlike us, our pets cannot be left alone to fend for themselves should something happen to their human or their health. Which is why it is up to you, as your pet’s sole caretaker, to put certain plans into place to ensure your pet leads a healthy, safe and happy life.
1. Plan for veterinary expenses
Ensuring your dog has a comfy bed, toys to play with and a roof over his head is one thing, but vet bills are another. Whilst the expenses of accessories and food are often taken into consideration when you become a pet parent, it's easy to forget the costs of vet bills associated with your pet’s health. Costs associated with flea treatments, neutering, dental care and vaccinations can and will quickly start to add up.
Then there are the even-more-expensive costs you can’t predict. What happens when Fluffy escapes your yard and is hit by a car? What if a cancerous tumour is found on Buster’s leg? Unexpected vet bills have been known to result in bank loans and even debt. To better plan for these expenses, it’s advised that you look into purchasing a pet insurance plan.
There is a range of pet insurance plans out there, a simple Google search can help you find what insurers are available to you. The trick is finding an insurer who meets your pet’s healthcare needs and your budget. Make sure you pay close attention to what you are NOT covered for. Check out this blog on everything you need to know about finding the right pet insurance provider.
The average costs of common pet medical procedures
To give you an idea of what you can expect when it comes to vet bills associated with common and often more serious pet medical procedures, I have put together a simplified list (keep in mind that these are the average costs and will vary depending on the severity of your pet’s medical issue and the level of treatment required)
- Tick bite fever: R2 000 to R10 000
- Dental procedures: R2 000 to R3 000
- Surgical removal of swallowing a foreign object: R5 000 to R11 000
- Cruciate surgery: R3 500
2. Train your pet
Never underestimate the power of properly training your pet. Dedicating your time, patience and in some cases, money (when seeking the help of a professional pet trainer), can not only do wonders for the wellbeing of your pet but yours too!
Teaching your pet some basic commands can be beneficial in emergencies. If your pet knows how to respond to specific commands you give her or him can help to save their life.
For example, in the case of a fire, you can teach your dog to come to you and escape the danger by knowing to respond to your voice when you call her.
Several professional pet trainers can help you teach your pet how to react and behave in particular situations.
3. Have a plan in place should something happen to you
Although most pet owners will outlive their pets, the truth is that none of us really know what our future holds.
A good idea is to chat with a friend or family member who you assign to look after your pet should something happen to you. You can also include your pet in your will, where legally, money is allocated to a friend or family member to spend on looking after your pet.
Whilst thinking of these types of situations might be a difficult process, you must take care of these plans to make your pet’s life a healthy and happy one.
Until next time,
The Pet Insurance Team