Pet Health Insurance

Health Insurance Reform for Your Pet

Most pet owners know what it is like trying to shell out payments for pet medical bills.

"They add up really fast," said Marco Urquidies, "and they get very expensive."

But most pet owners never consider getting pet health insurance - only one percent of owners have it.

Democratic state Assemblyman Dave Jones has introduced a bill to help regulate the pet health insurance industry in California.

Companies would no longer be able to deny coverage based on pre-existing conditions. It would also mandate that an insurer release when it increases premiums or decreases coverage.

Veterinarian Summer Godfrey says you should research your pet's breed to find out if he or she is prone to particular diseases or conditions.

"You do not want to wait until your dog breaks its leg and then go apply for pet insurance," Godfrey said. "If you apply for it when they are a puppy they really do cover a lot of things, depending on the plan."

Jone's bill would also make pet insurers post detailed information on their websites so consumers can see exactly what is covered and what is not. It would also make it easier to compare plans.

Pet insurance companies and animal advocacy groups say the bill is the 1st of its kind in the nation. The bill passed the state Assembly and a Senate insurance committee. It will head to the Appropriations Committee next.