Exotic Pet Insurance
Today it isn't just cats and dogs which people are keeping as pets, as we're seeing an ever greater number of people keeping a whole range of different exotic animals. This has resulted in a range of exotic pet insurance policies being provided, and it makes a great deal of sense to choose the most appropriate one in order to safeguard any possible expenses which might arise.
Some exotic pets are considerably more expensive than a cat or a dog, especially the rarer or more unusual species. This means that not only can exotic pet insurance be more expensive than other forms of pet insurance, but it makes even more sense to ensure that your exotic pet is covered in the event of a theft.
Exotic pets also involve a number of unusual arrangements compared to more traditional animals, such as tanks. These arrangements can sometimes represent risks of their own, such as tanks breaking, causing water damage to your living room! Additionally, some exotic pet insurance policies will need to be considered carefully in view of the likely life expectancy of your pet, with some animals living around five years, and others quite possibly outliving their owner!
What Is Exotic Pet Insurance?
Exotic pet insurance differs from traditional pet insurance for cats and dogs in a number of different ways, making it even more important for you to shop around and compare policies carefully. It's easy to end up paying too much for more than you need, and you certainly don't want to be under insured either. Exotic pets encompasses a huge menagerie of different species, from geckos to parrots, terrapins to snakes, and for this reason policies necessarily vary tremendously.
One of the most important things to consider is how much the your pet is covered for veterinary fees and medical expenses. These costs can sometimes be much higher for exotic animals than for more traditional pets, and so having a suitable policy for your particular species is essential.
Many people take their exotic pets to shows and so making sure they're covered for any injury or problem in transit is a must. Third party liability is something that may also need to be considered, although clearly the risks are greater if you happen to have a fourteen foot adder than a ninety year old tortoise.
What Are The Different Types Of Exotic Pet Insurance?
There aren't really different types of insurance plan for exotic pets, simply because there are so many different species and circumstances. However, there are certain issues which need to be considered, and by selecting which apply to your pet you can work out what you need to be looking for when comparing exotic pet insurance policies and premiums from different insurers.
- Length of cover - Some pet insurance plans have a cut off age, being valid only for a set number of years such as 5 or 8. In many cases this might be fine, but remember that some exotic pets can outlive humans, meaning that it's important to be aware of your exotic pet's life expectancy, and find an exotic pet insurance policy which provides cover for the length of time needed.
- Advertising costs - Unfortunately some exotic species are more prone to theft, but whether your pet is lost or stolen, some insurance plans offer help with advertising costs.
- Third party liability - Unfortunately we live in a litigation society, and although some exotic pets may be pretty harmless, it's wise to be aware that some could potentially cause damage or injury to other people or property. Having third party liability covers you for any damages and legal expenses.
- Medical costs - As with any pet insurance, exotic pet insurance will provide cover for any veterinary fees or medical costs. Often exotic pets can result in higher fees and medical costs, and so it's important to make sure that your policy offers sufficient cover.
- Travel cover - If you intend taking your exotic pet to shows then it's important to make sure it's covered in transit and when on public display.
- Home damage - Some exotic pets will involve specific circumstances or equipment which could potentially cause damage or problems in the home. For example, a large tank could break, causing water to cascade across the room, causing damage. Home insurance plans may cover such an eventuality, but if not, an exotic pet insurance policy could well offer the cover that you need.
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