The very first medical insurance for dogs policy was written in 1890. However, the concept really didn't take off until after the 2nd world war. In 1947 the British started buying medical insurance for dogs in droves.

Currently Sweden and Brittan are 1 & 2 in number of policies issued. The concept of medical insurance for dogs didn't really start to catch hold in the US until the mid 80's

Many dog owners believe that medical insurance for dogs is just like medical insurance for humans. This is not the case. medical insurance for dogs acts a lot more like your homeowners policy than it does regular medical insurance. In most cases the provider will want to have you issue a claim and then pay you directly instead of pay the vet. Similar to how it would work if you had a tree fall on your car or house or something.

Here are the top 5 things that you should keep in mind when buying medical insurance for dogs:

#1 Medical insurance for dogs varies wildly! Some plans cover accidents and not illness. others illness and not accidents. Some will cover cancer treatments others will not. You can find comprehensive coverage of course, but you will pay for it. Pay close attention because even some comprehensive coverage can have multiple exclusions. Most providers will not cover any pre existing conditions at all.

#2 Many people shop based on price only. While price is certainly a consideration, don't make it the only parameter. If your insurance provider denies your claim after a huge veterinary bill, your low premium won't look so low. Remember, just like anything else, you get what you pay for.

#3 The good news is you don't have to worry about not being able to use your favorite vet. Again, as stated in #1 above, Medical insurance for dogs works like property insurance so the vet you use doesn't make any difference. A claim is a claim and the provider will pay you and you pay what ever vet you fell like using.

#4 No pre existing conditions! This is something that all medical insurance for dogs providers are very strict about. If your dog has an illness or condition prior to being insured, the chances of getting him covered for that condition are slim to none. Insure your dog as early in his life as you can just to be sure.

#5 Is medical insurance for dogs worth it? Just imagine your favorite little furry buddy having an emergency that is going to cost thousands of dollars and you have to decide whether to pay up or put him down for good. Many people have strongly regretted the fact that they didn't have medical insurance for dogs at a time like that.