September marks National Pet Health Insurance Month, a time when vets, shelters and rescues, pet parents and insurance providers come together to shine a spotlight on the benefits of pet insurance. The month is all about raising awareness and helping more pet owners understand how it can help support the health and wellbeing of their furry friends.

The truth is, having pet insurance can help you to focus on what matters most – your pets – if an unexpected accident or illness does arise.

Why is pet insurance important?

A pet insurance plan might not be the first thing you think of when you meet your companion, but it can be extremely helpful when something unexpected comes up. Whether it’s an accident or sudden illness, pet insurance can help give pet owners peace of mind to make decisions about their pet’s medical needs with less worry about cost.

Thanks to ongoing advances in veterinary medicine, there are now more ways to treat accidents and illnesses in pets. But it can come at a hefty price.  Additionally, many pet parents expect top-notch care and quality of life for their pets. That’s why it’s important for your pet to receive treatment early and quickly enough, and for you to be financially prepared – so your pet can get the care they need, when they need it most.

Choosing coverage that’s right for you and your furry companion

When thinking about getting pet insurance, it’s always important to get a quote from a few reputable providers to compare the coverage options available to you. Remember to ask a lot of questions before you make your final decision. Here are some things for you to consider:

• What kind of pet do you have? – Much like us humans, both cats and dogs need regular checkups and can face unexpected medical issues or accidents. Every pet is unique. For example, some species (or breeds) may live longer than others, requiring a different level of commitment.
• What is their breed? – Some pets are more prone to certain health conditions just because of their breed. Knowing this can help you prepare for future medical needs. When you’re exploring pet insurance, be sure to ask each company if they make exclusions based on breed. For example, with our partners at Pets Plus Us, every breed is welcome.  Health conditions common in your pet’s breed are covered, provided they weren’t present before your coverage started.
• What are your financial resources? – Life happens and being a pet parent can be expensive. That’s why it’s smart to think about your ability to proactively save and be diligent about setting aside funds for care related to unexpected illnesses and accidents. When evaluating plans, inquire about coverage limits and monthly premiums. Some insurers may have annual limits, limits for specific treatments or lifetime limits.
• Can you pay for routine vet care? – Regular vet visits, vaccines and checkups are all part of keeping your pet happy and healthy. It’s important to consider the financial requirements to pay for this routine care. You might also want to consider any previous medical issues your pet might have that may require ongoing care. Some companies offer wellness plans for an additional cost, that help manage the costs associated with routine care.
• Value added services and add-ons available to you – Many insurance providers may offer valuable add-on products and services. For example, Pets Plus Us offers Blue Ribbon Benefits*, in addition to pet insurance coverage. These benefits include access to PetHelpFone for 24/7 emergency veterinary advice, the Compassionate Care Line for support with grief and bereavement, and the Pet Poison Helpline for assistance with potential poisoning**.  
• Care while travelling – Your pet is a part of your family, meaning it’s important to have a great relationship with your veterinarian. Sometimes, you may need to visit a vet while on vacation out of your city, province, or country, so it’s important to understand what coverage you have while out-of-town.

Interested in exploring your options for pet insurance? Visit our website to learn more.

*Blue Ribbon Benefits are not available in Quebec.
**Always consult a licensed veterinarian if you suspect your pet has been poisoned.

Disclaimer: This post is sponsored and contains promotional content for pet insurance. It is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute insurance, financial, medical, or veterinary advice. Coverage options, terms, conditions, exclusions, and availability vary and may change without notice. Readers are encouraged to carefully review all policy documents and speak with a licensed insurance representative before purchasing coverage. Always consult with insurance agent for policy-specific details.

The information herein is summarized. All pet insurance plans have limitations and exclusions. Specific products, features, rates, and discounts may vary by province and territory, eligibility, and are subject to change. Waiting periods, annual deductible, co-insurance, benefit limits and exclusions may apply. For all terms and conditions visit: https://www.petsplusus.com/service-claims/brochures-guides.

© 2025 All rights reserved. Pets Plus Us Pet Insurance policies are underwritten by Northbridge General Insurance Corporation, distributed by PTZ Insurance Services Ltd. & Société d’Assurances Collectives (Sodaco) Inc. in Quebec. Pets Plus Us Pet Insurance is available in all provinces and territories. Pets Plus Us®, Pets Plus Us & Design and related words and logos are trademarks and the property of PTZ Insurance Services Ltd.