If you’re a New Jersey pet owner, you know that taking your dog or cat to the vet can be an expensive trip. That’s why many pet parents in New Jersey have some form of pet insurance, whether it’s comprehensive insurance for their cats or just basic insurance for their dogs.
But how much does pet insurance in New Jersey cost in 2024? For many pet owners on a budget, selecting pet insurance can seem like a daunting, unaffordable task. Believe it or not, it’s not as expensive as you think, and it’s certainly cheaper than a vet bill. We’ll cover the average cost of policies and more in the guide below.
The Importance of Pet Insurance in New Jersey
There are many reasons that pet insurance in New Jersey is important. The least of these is that no one wants to pay out-of-pocket to have their pet treated at the local vet. Also, the cost of living is quite a bit higher in New Jersey than it is in many other parts of the country and vet bills are no exception to that rule.
The average well-care checkup for a pet is around $200, so even once a year, that’s quite a bit of money.
From ticks to canine influenza, there’s a lot that can happen to a pet; having pet insurance keeps you from paying those costs out-of-pocket and gives you peace of mind that your pet is covered no matter what accident might occur.
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How Much Does Pet Insurance Cost in New Jersey?
Now that you know the importance of having pet insurance when living in New Jersey, the next thing on your mind is probably how much it costs.
The average cost for pet insurance in New Jersey is $26 for a cat a month and $49 a month for a dog. The premium and rate you receive have a lot to do with your pet’s age, the breed of your pet, the location you live in, policy discounts, and the coverage amount that you choose.
The best way to get the least expensive monthly premiums is to compare the different insurance providers in New Jersey, such as Pumpkin and Healthy Paws, to see who gives you the best policy for the lowest price.
Benefits of Pet Insurance In New Jersey
There are many things that could happen to a cat or dog in New Jersey with the harsh winters and ticks in the summer season. Your pet could also get hurt outside, whether it’s being hit by a car or getting tangled in a fence. The last thing you want is to have to pay an astronomical vet bill when the rent is due at the same time. Pet insurance helps you pay for life’s unexpected moments and more when it comes to your beloved friends.
What Kind Of Plans Does Pet Insurance in New Jersey Offer?
New Jersey pet insurance providers offer a few different plans to choose from. They include the following:
Accident Only Coverage
Accident-only policies cover accidents where injuries are caused by unexpected events. These include bite wounds and broken bones. Since these plans don’t cover congenital and hereditary diseases or illnesses, this coverage is usually less expensive.
Accident and Illness Coverage
Accident and illness coverage covers sickness and any unexpected accidents that occur. It’s the most common and most popular coverage in New Jersey. While different insurance companies will vary on what they cover, the most common for this plan are listed below.
Wellness and Routine Care Plans
These plans are usually not considered pet insurance plans, though many providers will offer them. Many insurance providers are starting to include these as a built-in portion of their plans when at one time, these plans could only be bought separately. They help pet owners pay for routine visits, exam fees, medication, and more.
However, it’s essential to check with the insurance provider you’re considering to ensure they offer these plans and what they might cost.
What Does Pet Insurance in New Jersey Cover?
Whether you’re a dog or a cat pet parent, it’s essential to know what is and what isn’t covered in your pet insurance policy before you sign on the dotted line. The following is included in New Jersey policies but might vary depending on your chosen provider.
Some providers may offer to cover alternative treatments, while some may not. Whichever plan you choose should be tailored to your pet’s needs.
What Doesn’t Pet Insurance in New Jersey Cover?
There are a few things that pet insurance in New Jersey doesn’t cover.
Some companies might not cover hip dysplasia either, at least not for the first year of coverage.
Conclusion
New Jersey pet owners can save a bundle by enrolling in a pet insurance plan, but it’s vital to research the companies thoroughly to find a plan that meets your pet’s needs. If you have a young, healthy pet, you may not need a comprehensive plan, but owners of elderly animals or those with medical issues would benefit from policies that cover more treatments and services. The price of your insurance plan will depend on your pet’s age and health, location, and the provider you select.
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Featured Image Credit: Maksym Azovtsev, Shutterstock