When it comes to taking care of your lovable furball, preventative care might not be the first thing that comes to mind. Sure, you probably think about vaccinations or maybe a check-up here and there, but did you know that regular preventative care can save you money in the long run – on both your vet bills and pet insurance premiums? Yes, it's true!
Taking small steps today can lead to significant savings tomorrow while keeping your pet happy and healthy. But how exactly does this work? Let's break it down.
WHAT IS PREVENTATIVE CARE?
Preventative care is all about stopping problems before they start. It means being proactive about your pet's health through routine measures like vaccinations, check-ups, dental care, and proper diet.
Just like with humans, addressing potential health issues early—or preventing them altogether—can save significant costs (and heartache) compared to dealing with an emergency or advanced illness later.
For instance, a yearly wellness exam might cost $40–$100. Compare that to an emergency surgery that could set you back over $5,000. It's easy to see how investing in preventative care makes financial sense.
PREVENTATIVE CARE & PET INSURANCE
Pet insurance is becoming increasingly popular as more pet owners look for ways to manage the often unpredictable cost of veterinary care. But here's the trick – not all insurance policies are created equal. Many plans don't cover pre-existing conditions, and some charge higher premiums if your pet hasn't seen the vet regularly. That's where preventative care comes in.
When your pet receives regular check-ups and stays up-to-date on vaccinations, insurers are less likely to see them as a "risk." A healthy pet is cheaper to insure because the likelihood of costly claims decreases. Preventative care pays off by keeping premiums lower and reducing out-of-pocket expenses.
HOW PREVENTATIVE CARE REDUCES LONG-TERM COSTS
Identifying Problems Early
One of the most significant advantages of preventative care is early diagnosis. Pets don't have a way to tell us when something feels off, and by the time an illness shows clear symptoms, it may already be advanced. Regular check-ups can catch early warning signs of chronic conditions like diabetes, arthritis, or kidney disease – conditions that, if left untreated, can lead to costly ongoing treatments.
For example, treating early-stage kidney disease might involve dietary changes or medication, costing a few hundred dollars per year. If the disease progresses unchecked, though, you could face thousands of dollars in specialist visits and treatment. By addressing health concerns right away, you avoid expensive surprises and might even extend your pet's life.
Protect Against Preventable Illness
Vaccinations and parasite preventatives are critical to protecting your pet from serious diseases. For example, heartworm prevention costs around $100–$200 annually, but treating heartworm disease can run you up to $1,000 – or more – depending on the severity.
Similarly, skipping routine vaccines could lead to costly bills for illnesses like parvovirus or rabies, which are preventable with a simple shot. Illness doesn't just hurt your pet – it also hits your wallet. Preventative care helps you avoid these unnecessary costs.
Dental Health Matters Too
Many pet owners overlook dental health, but it's a huge component of preventative care. Regular cleanings and at-home brushing can help stave off gum disease, which is not only painful for pets but also leads to infections and systemic health issues.
What is the cost of professional dental cleaning? Around $300–$800, depending on your vet and location. The cost of treating advanced periodontal disease or extracting teeth? Easily into the thousands. Prioritizing your pet's dental hygiene is another way to save in the long run.
6 PRACTICAL TIPS FOR IMPLEMENTING PREVENTATIVE CARE
If you're ready to reap the benefits of preventative care, here are some simple but impactful steps you can start taking today:
1. Schedule Regular Vet Check-Ups
Aim for at least one annual wellness visit, or more frequently for senior pets. During these visits, your vet can check for lumps, discuss weight management, and monitor your pet's overall health.
2. Stay on Top of Vaccinations
Ensure your pet's vaccinations are up-to-date. Discuss core versus non-core vaccines with your vet to see what's necessary based on your pet's lifestyle.
3. Prevent Parasites
Flea, tick, and heartworm preventatives are often monthly treatments that can save you from much larger bills (and headaches) later.
4. Maintain a Healthy Weight
Feeding your pet the right diet and ensuring they get plenty of exercise can prevent obesity-related issues like diabetes, arthritis, and heart disease.
5. Prioritize Dental Care
Brush your pet's teeth regularly and ask your vet about professional cleanings. There are also dental treats and toys designed to reduce tartar buildup.
6. Consider Pet Insurance Carefully
When shopping for pet insurance, look for plans that reward preventative care by covering routine wellness visits or offering discounts for up-to-date vaccinations.
WHAT’S THE REAL FINANCIAL IMPACT?
Still not convinced? Consider these numbers.
According to a recent study by the American Pet Products Association, American pet owners spend an average of $1,500 per year on routine care like vaccinations and check-ups. On the other hand, treating a chronic illness or emergency can cost upwards of $5,000 to $10,000.
With preventative care, you're spreading out small, manageable costs while reducing the risk of overwhelming unexpected expenses. And remember – many pet insurance policies offer wellness add-ons or lower premiums for pets with a demonstrated history of regular care. That's extra savings in your pocket.
While pets bring immeasurable joy into our lives, keeping them healthy can cost a fair bit. Preventative care is the secret weapon that lets you spend smarter, not harder, on pet health.
Combine this with the right pet insurance plan that supports preventative care, and you can rest easy knowing you're doing everything possible to keep both your pet and your budget in tip-top shape. After all, isn't your best friend worth it?
If you need help finding the best insurance coverage for the best price, speak to a SimplyIOA agent at 833.872.4467 or get a quote online now.
