Pet Assure
Pet Assure is a managed care program, similar to an HMO in human health care. In order to receive benefits, you must join the program, which requires an annual fee, and get services at a veterinarian within their network. When you show your membership card while at a participating vet’s office, you receive 25% off of your total bill. There are some exclusions, such as take home medication, so it’s important to read the fine print before deciding if this is an option that meets your needs.
According to Pet Assure’s website, annual fees are between $60 and $140, but this is to cover your entire furry family. Because Pet Assure is not pet insurance, there are no deductibles or maximums. Coverage is also extended to exotics and avians, which means that all of your pets are covered by the plan. Additionally, there are no age or health restrictions, and pre-existing conditions are covered — providing, of course, you’re at one of the participating veterinarians. Pet Assure also have a lost pet recovery service and discounts from certain pet merchandisers, such as Zukes and the Pet Health Institute. To see the available options, click here.
There are, however, some cons with this program. As we mentioned previously, you must receive services at a participating veterinarian, which means if you travel with your pet, you will need to find nearby participating vets in advance rather than taking your pet to the closest vet office in the event of an emergency. You should also be certain that there is a participating veterinarian in your area and that you feel comfortable there before signing up. Also, any service your vet provides that is considered an “outside service,” which means anything your vet doesn’t do him/herself, is not covered. This includes lab work and certain other tests. Non-medical boarding and grooming, food, flea products, any medication that is sent home, and anything already discounted are not covered.
This is just a summary of the Pet Assure plan. If it sounds like something that might fit your need, please visit their website and read the fine print.
