You might already know that pet insurance can cover the unexpected when it comes to your dog - injuries, illnesses, or accidents. Unfortunately, routine health and wellness vet care are usually excluded, which can be costly for some pet parents. Today, our Franklin vet team explains the benefits of wellness plans for your medium-sized dog.
While it may seem counterintuitive to take your dog to the veterinarian if they aren't sick or injured, but the truth is that preventive care, including vaccinations and parasite prevention, can help your pet live the long, healthy life that they deserve. Wellness Plans are a great way to save money by paying a flat rate for a 'bundle' of routine veterinary services, and below are some reasons to consider one for your medium-sized dog.
Save Money
Although preventive care, including routine vet checkups, bloodwork and other diagnostic testing, and vaccinations are the best way to ensure your dog's health and longevity, many pet insurance policies don't cover these services. For pet parents with puppies, a new dog, or a senior animal, the cost of annual vet services can add up to to much for some, which discourages them from seeking routine vet care for their animal. A wellness plan can cover many of these costs, so you can focus on your dog's health instead of your pocket.
Parasite Protection
Common parasites like fleas and ticks are annoying for your dog, but more importantly, they can be vectors for a number of serious diseases and can also affect humans. Wellness plans often cover the cost of parasite preventive products, screenings and vaccinations.
Additionally, dangerous illnesses like heartworm disease can be prevented with ongoing protection, which most wellness plans will cover.
Pet Grooming
Regular grooming, which includes bathing, coat and nail trims, and cleaning eyes and ears, allows us to keep our dogs looking great while keeping an eye out for matted fur, skin issues, or any potential dermatological conditions. Some wellness plans include grooming services. This means that your dog's coat, nails, feet and other, less adorable parts, are primped and pampered, with less strain on your bank account.
Health & Longevity
As in humans, ongoing care for your pooch's health can enable them to live longer, healthier, and happier. Beyond giving your veterinarian the chance to check on your dog more regularly, catch any developing conditions earlier, and protecting them from parasites and common diseases, wellness plans can also help during emergencies, with some surgical procedures (e.g. spaying and neutering, which are considered preventive care), and with chronic conditions. If your dog requires more medical care due to age, genetics, or chronic conditions, a wellness plan can be key to ensuring they can have access to ongoing care for their quality of life.
To find out what wellness plan is best for your canine companion, contact your Franklin veterinarian to find out more and to set you and your pet on the road to long-term health.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.