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What is the difference between pet insurance & pet wellness plans?

Pet insurance and wellness plans are two great options for making your pet’s healthcare more affordable. Below, our Harlingen vets explain some of the differences and benefits of each option.

Protecting Your Pet's Future

Both wellness plans and pet insurance policies offer benefits, but they are very different. When it comes to your pet's veterinary care, it’s important to understand which services your pet is and isn't covered for. That way, you won't be left unexpectedly paying out of pocket when you visit your vet or need to plan the payment for your pet's care and treatment.

What is a wellness plan?

Wellness plans can help you cover the cost of routine veterinary care by paying a small monthly amount. Unlike pet insurance, with wellness plans, you only pay for the treatments and services you use. 

Wellness plans can help you adopt a more proactive approach to your pet's veterinary care and help your vet spot early signs of conditions or diseases before they become more serious and potentially life-threatening and very expensive.

What does a wellness plan cover?

Wellness plans generally cover routine vet care, such as microchipping, vaccinations, and dental care. These plans aim to help you spread the cost of improving and maintaining your pet’s overall health.

What is pet insurance?

Pet insurance covers any veterinary bills if your pet requires emergency care.

Emergency treatment can become very expensive. Pet insurance provides financial help to pay the bills for accidents and conditions covered by your pet's insurance policy.

What does pet insurance cover?

Policies differ, but generally, pet insurance covers treatment for illnesses and any emergency treatment required after accidents. Some pet insurance policies may also include prescription medications, the treatment of hereditary and congenital conditions, and orthopedic conditions.

How do I choose which option to buy?

Some pet owners subscribe to pet insurance and wellness plans together to ensure their pets have complete protection, while others opt for one or the other. Understanding how each option works can benefit you and your pet and help you decide on the best option for you and your pet.

Ask your vet if you want help deciding what is best for your pet based on their 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.

Our annual Wellness Plans can help maintain your pet's health. Contact our Harlingen vets if you have any questions or would like to enroll.

Welcoming New Patients

Our vets at Altas Palmas Animal Clinic are now accepting new patients! Our veterinary team is passionate about keeping the cats and dogs of Harlingen happy and healthy. Contact us today to schedule your pet's first appointment.

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Book Online (956) 423-3322