If your worried about veterinary costs for your dog then medical insurance for your dog is definitely worth looking into. Pet insurance has become popular with dog owners and can help when money is tight and an unforeseen accident occurs with your dog. Vet bills can quickly mount up and depending on the injury can be in the hundreds or even thousands which for some people is just not an option and they would be faced with having to put their family pet down.

Pet insurance used to used mainly for horses and livestock but since the 1940's has become more popular with domestic animals. There are a variety of plans and insurance companies which offer pet insurance these days. It is advisable to insure your pet as early as possible, you can insure your dog from the age of 8 weeks old. Most companies will still insure older dogs but will have limitations on policies for older dogs, such as pre existing conditions, etc. You need to make sure you understand your policies restrictions and read the fine print.

In saying this some companies also have specific policies for older dogs with different options available. All have monthly payment options so you can factor it into your budget more easily instead of having to come up with a lump sum once a year. For example 24PetWatch has a plan specifically for older dogs called Quick Care Senior.

Things to check when selecting pet insurance

• Check your breed with the insurer - do they charge higher premiums for certain breeds
• Check age limits - some insurers require pets to be at least 8 weeks old and may not cover your pet if it is over a certain age
• If you have more than one pet you may be able to get a discount
• Check and make sure you understand what your policy covers, this can range from accident only, to a wide range of veterinary costs such as dental, vaccination and other issues
• What are the deductables some insurers will only pay 80% others 100%
• Check to see if your insurer covers any hereditary conditions especially with certain breeds

Now that pet insurance has become more popular there are plenty of options and companies to choose from but you need to do your homework and remember you get what you pay for. If you opt for a cheap plan then you will be restricted as far as cover for your pet, e.g. most cheap plans may not cover cancer or other specific diseases.

In conclusion pet insurance covers you and your pet for unexpected and expensive vet bills which may save you the painful decision of having to put your pet down so if you don't want to be in that position its definitely worth investigating this option.