Pets are a popular part of the American family, with 67% of households owning at least one. This reflects a significant increase since 1988 when only 56% of households did. We love our pets and unexpected expenses have led many owners to consider budgeting for pet health insurance.

Despite the economic hardships that pets can impose, pet ownership has increased steadily through the decades.

Dogs, cats, aquarium fish, birds, reptiles, and other animals are now seen as valuable family members who serve as entertainers, companions, and protectors of the home. As part of the family, we want to provide the care and support they deserve.

Is pet health insurance worth it? Pet health insurance can cover a wide range of pet-related healthcare expenses including routine wellness visits, vaccinations, dental care, sterilization procedures, and more. Depending on the level of coverage purchased, emergency care or expensive surgical procedures can be partially covered, resulting in huge cost savings.

Now that we’ve given you the quick answer, let’s dive into the details to help you determine if pet health insurance is truly right for you—and how budgeting for it can be beneficial.

The Cost of Health Services for Pets

With approximately 85 million households in the United States owning a pet, caring for these nonhuman family members has become a $99 billion-a-year industry, more than doubling since 2010.

The cost of veterinary care alone is expected to reach $30.2 billion this year. As veterinary medicine increasingly mirrors human healthcare with advanced diagnostics and surgical procedures, costs continue to climb.

For many, a sudden pet health emergency—even if not life-threatening—can mean facing “economic euthanasia,” where owners are forced to put down a beloved pet due to unaffordable care costs.

The cost of veterinary care alone is expected to reach $30.2 billion this year.

An Alternative

An increasingly popular option to prevent this is a pet insurance policy. Unlike human health insurance, most pet insurance operates on a reimbursement basis. Here’s how it works:

How Pet Insurance Works

Pet insurance comes in a range of packages:

Some cover only the basics. Others include wellness and preventive care. A few now offer dental coverage. Most plans exclude preexisting conditions and place caps on procedures or yearly coverage.

Many insurers let you use any licensed U.S. veterinarian, though some restrict to networks. Deductibles vary by plan, and lower deductibles usually mean higher premiums.

So what can you do to prepare financially? Here are seven practical tips:

Evaluate the Age and Size of Your Pet

Younger pets may need more initial coverage (neutering, vaccines). Larger breeds may be prone to orthopedic issues. Consider your pet's life stage and health risks when choosing a policy.

Look for Quality Instead of Quantity

A flashy plan with many benefits isn't always best. Choose a plan that prioritizes high-quality care, even if it offers fewer services. In the long term, this can save you money and protect your pet’s health.

Keep Some Emergency Funds

Even with insurance, emergencies happen. Build a small savings cushion for urgent situations or gaps in coverage.

Cut Down on Other Expenses

Compare prices for pet food, toys, and grooming. Small savings add up and can be redirected into a better insurance plan or pet emergency fund.

Get Discounts

Many insurers offer multi-pet discounts:

Ask your provider what discounts they offer—you might be surprised what’s available.

Employer’s Insurance

Some employers offer discounted pet insurance as a benefit. Check your HR or benefits portal—this option may save you more than private plans.

Compare Pet Insurance Providers

Do your research. Compare deductibles, premiums, payout caps, and coverage tiers. Use online comparison tools and read customer reviews to get the full picture.

Finally…

Your pets deserve the best—and that includes proactive healthcare planning.

By budgeting smartly and choosing quality pet insurance, you’ll be ready for anything and your pets will thrive.

Our store is also full of responsibly sourced handmade beds and more designed to help keep your pets comfortable and in tip-top shape to prevent disease naturally!

Article Contributors:

José A. Sánchez Fournier is a writer with Money.com. Previously, he spent 15 years as a journalist with El Nuevo Día, the largest daily newspaper in Puerto Rico.

About the Author

Go Doggie Style is more than just a dog boutique — it’s a passion project by Dr. Patria Smith, a Doctor of Pharmacy, Board Certified Pharmacotherapy Specialist, Entrepreneur, wife, mother of 4 beautiful children and a proud dog mom. Founded in 2019, our blog blends professional insight, scientific accuracy, and a deep love for dogs to help pet parents give their pups the healthiest, happiest life possible.