Understanding Pet Insurance

Pet insurance is a type of health insurance for your pets that helps cover the cost of veterinary care. Just like human health insurance, pet insurance policies come with different coverage options, including accident-only, illness, and comprehensive plans. These plans can cover everything from routine check-ups to emergency surgeries, giving you peace of mind that your pet’s health needs are taken care of.

The Benefits of Pet Insurance

1. Financial Protection: Veterinary bills can be unexpectedly high. Pet insurance ensures that you’re not faced with a tough decision due to cost constraints when your pet needs medical attention.

2. Access to Quality Care: With pet insurance, you can afford to seek the best possible care for your pet. This means choosing specialized treatments and surgeries that might otherwise be out of reach.

3. Preventative Care: Many pet insurance plans cover preventative care, such as vaccinations and annual check-ups, which are crucial for keeping your pet healthy and catching potential issues early.

4. Peace of Mind: Knowing that you have a financial safety net in place allows you to focus on your pet’s recovery rather than worrying about the cost of treatment.

How Pet-Insure.co.za Helps You and Your Pet Find the Right Pet Insurance

At Pet Insure, we specialize in vetting the top providers for pet insurance for cats and dogs. Our vetted partner’s comprehensive plans are designed to suit the unique needs of your furry companions, ensuring they receive the best care possible. Whether you’re looking for basic coverage or a more inclusive plan, our partners have options that cater to every budget and requirement.

By using our services, you’re not just finding insurance; you’re investing in the health and happiness of your beloved pets. Visit Pet Insure(https://pet-insure.co.za/) to learn more and secure the best protection for your pets, alternatively you can complete the form on this page for a free no obligation call back.

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1. Regular Veterinary Visits: Pets need regular check-ups to monitor their health and prevent diseases. Pet insurance can help cover the cost of routine visits making it easier to keep up with essential vet care.
2. Spay and Neuter Your Pets: These procedures not only control the pet population but also prevent certain health issues. Many insurance plans offer coverage for these surgeries, reducing your out-of-pocket expenses.
3. Prevent Parasites: Fleas, ticks, and worms can cause significant health problems. Regular preventive treatments are crucial, and pet insurance can cover the costs of these essential medications.
4. Maintain a Healthy Weight: Obesity can lead to serious health conditions in pets. Insurance can contribute to the cost of dietary consultations and chronic condition management, ensuring your pet stays at a healthy weight.
5. Vaccinations: Protecting your pet from diseases like rabies and distemper is crucial. Pet insurance often covers vaccinations, helping to keep your pet healthy and immunized without a large expense.
6. Enriched Environment: Mental and physical stimulation is vital for your pet’s well-being. Insurance can help cover the costs of toys, training, and even therapy if your pet develops issues from lack of stimulation.
7. Microchip Your Pet: Proper identification can be a lifesaver for lost pets. Many insurance policies cover the cost of microchipping, which is a small price for a big peace of mind.
8. Pets Need Dental Care, Too: Just like humans, pets can suffer from dental problems, which can lead to major health issues. Comprehensive insurance plans often include dental care, from routine cleanings to major surgeries.
9. Proper Restraint in a Vehicle: Always secure your pet in the vehicle. In case of an accident, pet insurance can cover medical treatments for any injuries sustained, which ensures your pet’s safety on the road.
10. Overall Care: Regular care and preventive measures are key to maintaining your pet’s health. Pet insurance plays a pivotal role in ensuring that you can provide the best care possible without breaking the bank.

By embracing these tips and considering the protective cushion of insurance, you ensure that your beloved pet enjoys a long, healthy, and joyful life with you. For more information on how pet insurance can help with your pet care needs, you can leave your details here and our vetted insurance partner will be in contact.

Alternatively, you can simply complete the form on this page.

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Affordable Protection from Just R89/pm

Budgeting for pet care doesn’t have to be a burden. With plans starting as low as R89 per month, securing insurance for your pet is now more affordable than ever. This minimal monthly investment can save you from the stress and high costs associated with unexpected veterinary bills, especially during the summer months when pets are more prone to heat-related illnesses and outdoor injuries.

Up to 15% Discount for Multiple Pets

If you’re a proud parent of multiple pets, the deal gets even better. Recognizing the special bond and the added responsibility of caring for more than one pet, insurers now offer up to a 15% discount for insuring multiple pets. This discount not only makes it financially feasible to protect all your pets but also encourages a comprehensive approach to their health and well-being.

Why Pet Insurance is Essential in South African Summers

Summer in South Africa poses unique challenges for pets, ranging from heatstroke to increased exposure to parasites and other outdoor risks. With the right pet insurance, you have the peace of mind knowing that whether it’s a routine check-up or an emergency situation, your pet’s health is covered. Moreover, insurance can cover a range of treatments, including preventative care, which is crucial in these warmer months.

As we enjoy the vibrant South African summer, let’s not forget the well-being of our furry family members. Affordable pet insurance from just R89 per month not only ensures that your pets are protected but also gives you the financial freedom to enjoy the season without worries. Remember, the best time to get pet insurance is before you think you need it. Secure your peace of mind today and give your pets the gift of uninterrupted care and protection.

Get a free no obligation quote today for your pet/s by requesting a call back here.

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1. Festive Feasts: What Not to Feed Your Pet
   Holiday meals are a highlight of the season, but not all human foods are safe for pets. Chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, and certain nuts are toxic to dogs and cats. Keep these items out of paw’s reach and inform your guests about these dangers. Instead, prepare pet-friendly treats to include them in the celebration safely.
2. Exercise is Key
   With the hustle and bustle of the holidays, it’s easy to overlook our pets’ exercise needs. Maintain their regular exercise schedule to keep them fit and prevent holiday weight gain. A good walk or play session will not only keep them physically active but also help reduce anxiety and stress that can come with holiday disruptions.
3. Decor Dangers
   Decorations can be hazardous for curious pets. Tinsel, if ingested, can lead to serious health issues. Ensure Christmas trees are secure and ornaments are out of reach. Avoid using real candles where pets can knock them over, and be cautious with electrical cords from holiday lights.
4. A Quiet Retreat
   The noise and excitement of holiday parties can be overwhelming for pets. Set up a quiet, comfortable space in a separate room where your pet can retreat to if they feel stressed. Include their favourite bed, toys, and water bowl.
5. Stay Vigilant with Weather Changes
   Parts of the country can have severe thunderstorms over the holiday period, remember to provide adequate shelter for your pets if they are outside during a storm. Preferably, always bring them inside when possible as the loud noises from thunder can scare you furry friends and send them into a panic.
6. Update Pet Insurance
   Ensure your pet insurance is up to date. The holidays can bring unforeseen risks, and having the right insurance in place gives you peace of mind knowing your pet’s health is protected. If you currently don’t have pet insurance, or feel your premiums are higher than you would like – you can get a free no obligation quote from our vetted pet insurance partner here: https://www.pet-insure.co.za

The December holidays are a time for celebration, and by taking these simple steps, you can ensure it’s a safe and joyous season for your entire family, including your four-legged members. Keep your pets’ fitness, safety, and health a top priority, and you’ll all enjoy a wonderfully festive time together.

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Why Pet Insurance Matters:

Pets are susceptible to various health concerns, and the costs associated with veterinary care can add up quickly. Pet insurance acts as a safety net, covering a wide range of medical expenses, including accidents, illnesses, surgeries, and even routine vaccinations. By investing in pet insurance, you can ensure that your furry friend receives the necessary medical attention without having to compromise due to financial constraints.

Affordable Pet Insurance Plans:

At Pet-Insure, we understand the importance of affordable and comprehensive pet insurance. That’s why we have vetted the top providers ensuring that pet owners can access the coverage their pets need without breaking the bank.

Keeping Your Pet Warm This Winter:

As the winter days are now here, it’s important to ensure that our furry friends stay warm and cozy. Here are 5 tips to help you keep your dog/s comfortable during the colder season:

1. Provide Adequate Shelter: Ensure that your dog has access to a warm and dry shelter. It could be a well-insulated doghouse or a cozy corner indoors with comfortable bedding.
2. Layer Up: Dogs with short coats or those who are more susceptible to the cold may benefit from wearing doggy sweaters or jackets. These will help keep them warm during walks and outdoor activities.
3. Indoor Comfort: Make sure your home is adequately heated. Provide your dog with a warm and comfortable space indoors, away from drafts. You can also use heated pet pads or blankets to provide extra warmth.
4. Protect Their Paws: Cold temperatures can be harsh on your dog’s paws. Consider using pet-safe paw balms or booties to protect their paws from frostbite and ice melt chemicals.
5. Stay Active: Regular exercise is important for your dog’s physical and mental well-being. Engage in indoor activities or take shorter, brisk walks during the colder days to ensure they get the exercise they need.

Pet insurance is a vital tool for responsible pet owners, ensuring that your furry friend receives the necessary medical care when they need it most. With affordable options starting from just R89 per month, you can provide your pet with comprehensive coverage without straining your budget. To get a free no obligation call back today, you can submit your details here and a consultant will be in touch: https://www.pet-insure.co.za/

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1. Christmas present bones

You may be aware of a Facebook post that recently did the rounds of a vet explaining how she had to saw off a marrow bone that got stuck around the dog’s lower jaw. While dogs love to chomp on a bone, especially those juicy ones with the marrow still inside, bones are actually quite unsafe for dogs and completely unnecessary. They can be sharp and brittle, causing damage to the mouth and teeth, and if fragments are ingested, these can perforate the walls of the stomach and intestines.

Sometimes the bone fragments are too large to pass through the gut at all, requiring invasive and expensive surgery for removal. Similarly, if they get stuck on the lower jaw or teeth, it can be a traumatising experience for your dog, and most dogs need to be sedated or anesthetised in order to cut the bone off. That cute ribbon-wrapped bone gift for your best bud just isn’t worth the potential risk, rather give it a skip.

2. Decorations and festive plants within chomping range

Dogs are naturally curious and/or naughty, and that piece of harmless, hanging tinsel glittering in the light can easily become a choking hazard. The same goes for glass or aluminium Christmas tree ornaments and decorations that can shatter into sharp pieces. Unless you know for certain that your pupper won’t touch it, start the tree decorations higher up where they’re out of the reach of curious lips and paws, or place the whole tree somewhere where it can be admired from a distance.

Also look out for houseplants that are commonly gifted around this time but can be toxic to dogs. These include the bright-red poinsettia, mistletoe, and holly, as well as other plants that could be given as gifts like lillies (especially Calla lillies) and delicious monster plants.

3. Smuggling leftovers and titbits

We all know the big, manipulative I’m-so-hungry-feed-me eyes that peer out from under the table, but don’t fall for it! Apart from being unhealthy – like continual fatty pieces or bones – there are many foods that we enjoy that are not ok for dogs to consume. These include onions, anything with xylitol, grapes and raisins, milk and ice creams (we see you bowl licker!), macadamia nuts, chocolate and a lot of salty foods like popcorn, chips or pretzels (too much salty foods could cause sodium ion poisoning). Of course there are also the obvious hard no’s like anything containing alcohol, marijuana or caffeine

4. Leaving your dog alone on New Years

If those fireworks sound loud to you, they are a raging bomb on your dog’s far more sensitive ears. Dogs can hear sounds four times farther away than we can, and can hear frequencies that the human ear cannot. So it’s understandable that they may be panicking, especially if they are left to deal with it alone. Some dogs injure themselves trying to jump over fences or walls in an attempt to get away from the noise, injuring their throats and bodies on the spikes. If you’re going to be out, leave your dog with a trusted friend/family member or hire someone to stay with them.

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When should I be concerned about my cat’s diarrhoea?

A once-off soft or runny stool is usually not cause for concern – cats, like any other pet, will occasionally have an upset stomach. However, recurring diarrhoea is never a good sign and anything that lasts longer than 2 days means you should take your cat to the vet. If you see any of the following symptoms along with the diarrhoea, you should go to the vet immediately:

• Vomiting
• Blood in the stool (or the stool is very dark)
• Out of the ordinary weakness or lethargy
• Loss of appetite

The vet may ask you some questions to help in diagnosing your cat, so it’s a good idea to watch your cat carefully and jot down details like when you first noticed the diarrhoea, how frequent it is, what it looks like, and any changes you may have made to your cat’s diet or environment.

Can I give my cat human medication?

No. This is never a good idea unless a vet has specifically told you what and how much of a specific medicine you can give your cat. You may mean well, but sometimes even a tiny dose of human medication can be toxic or even fatal to a cat.

For example, paracetamol is a common and mild painkiller that most people can use without a problem, but it is highly dangerous to cats and even one pill can be enough to kill them.

How is cat diarrhoea treated?

This very much depends on the cause of the diarrhoea, which will need to be determined by a vet.

Diarrhoea could be caused by something relatively mild like a food allergy or hairball, or it could be something more serious like a parasitic worm, urinary tract infection or liver disease. Your vet may start treatment with cat-specific anti-diarrhoea medication to address the immediate problem, as well as de-wormers, probiotics or a special food you need to give your cat. If your cat refuses to eat for more than 48 hours, this is also a sign that you need to go to the vet.

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1. Delicious monster / Monstera deliciosa

The leaves, stems and fruit of the Delicious Monster, as well as those of the similar-looking Philodendron plant, contain calcium oxylate crystals, which embed themselves in the mucous membranes of your dog’s mouth and tongue.

Clinical symptoms: Irritation in the mouth and throat as a result of the pain caused by the crystals. This can show up as excessive drooling, difficulty swallowing, vomiting, diarrhoea and nausea.

2. Cycad / Sago palm

Common in South African gardens, cycads are extremely toxic, with ingestion often resulting in severe damage or death. The seeds contain the most toxins – just two or three can be fatal if consumed.

Clinical symptoms: Initial symptoms may show up as nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea, with seizures, paralysis, convulsions and other serious symptoms following. The toxins cause gastrointestinal problems, central nervous system damage, liver failure and death.

3. Tulips / Tulipa

These bright bulbs contain glycosides and a chemical called Tuliposide that causes irritation and burning of the skin. In fact, even just the water in a vase that held tulips will contain the toxins, because they leach out of the plant. All parts of the flower are toxic, but especially the bulb – little as a teaspoon can cause severe side effects in your dog.

Clinical symptoms: Excessive drooling, vomiting, diarrhoea and irritation in the mouth and throat that can show up as pawing of the mouth and redness. More serious symptoms include abdominal pain to difficulty breathing and seizures. Dogs can also get dermatitis if they brush up against them often.

4. Lilies / Lilium

Lilies are actually far more dangerous for cats than dogs, although both should stay away from them. In cats, exposure even to just the pollen from some lilies can cause severe kidney damage.

Clinical symptoms: Depends on the type of lily and how much was eaten. General symptoms include vomiting, diarrhoea and decreased appetite. Calla and peace lilies (which contain calcium oxylates like the Delicious Monster) may cause excessive drooling, redness and irritation in the mouth and throat.

5. Firestick succulent / Pencil cactus

This succulent is as dangerous as it sounds, and is found commonly throughout South Africa. The pencil-like ‘branches’ contain a dangerous milky white sap that can cause serious chemical burns.

Clinical symptoms: Contact with the skin causes burning, blisters, rash and pain. Contact with the eyes can cause pain, swelling, redness and temporary or permanent blindness. If eaten, vomiting, diarrhoea, pain and possible death if not treated, although cases of the plant being ingested are rare due to the taste and the pain the sap causes. Get to a vet immediately in all of these instances.

6. Jade plant / Money tree

Native to SA, this succulent with its thick, egg-shaped leaves contains an unknown toxin that can have mild to serious side effects if eaten by dogs.

Clinical symptoms: Vomiting, abdominal pain and lethargy are common, with the possibility of convulsions and other serious health effects being rare.

7. Cannabis / Weed

Cannabis, whether your dog has eaten the actual plant or sniffed out a remainder of a stub, is toxic. The effects of being ‘high’ are disorienting and scary for a dog, and blockage of the airways by vomit can happen.

Clinical symptoms: Unstable or unsteady movements, anxiety, vomiting, low temperature.

8. String of pearls / Senecio rowleyanus

This unique succulent has little hanging ‘beads’ that could be enticing to curious nibblers. Its toxin, pyrrolizidine alkaloid, causes painful and uncomfortable side effects in dogs that can occasionally be life-threatening.

Clinical symptoms: Diarrhoea, drooling, abdominal pain, involuntary muscle contractions and vomiting. In severe cases where large amounts have been ingested, liver failure can happen.

9. Snake plant / Mother-in-law’s tongue

This popular house plant is mildly toxic to dogs and cats. The entire plant (including flowers) contains a chemical called saponin, which acts as a natural insecticide and fungicide for the plant as well as making the plant extremely bitter.

Clinical symptoms: Severity depends on the amount ingested, but symptoms are largely related to stomach upset, including vomiting, diarrhoea, nausea, lethargy, drooling, and swelling of the tongue, mouth, lips and throat.

10. Rooigras & Assegaaigras (Spear grass)

These wild, barbed grasses can be found throughout South Africa. The seeds are sharp, and can get stuck in your dog’s nose, ears, gums, soft palate, eyes, eyelids, and between the toes, causing discomfort, pain and, if left, serious infection. If you’ve walked anywhere where wild grass could grow, even across small patches of open veld, do a body check on your dog.

Clinical symptoms: Depending on where the seed gets stuck, it will cause irritation, swelling and inflammation. Your dog will react by constantly rubbing or shaking its head (ears), licking and biting the area (toes, skin), could be sneezing and have nasal discharge (mouth, nose, throat) – all of which can push the seed deeper into the skin.

Having Pet Insurance can help with the costs of vet bills, if you would like a free no obligation quote, you can complete your details here: https://pet-insure.co.za

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Why Is Pet Dental Care So Important?

While a lot of folks are quick to dismiss dog breath, it can often be a symptom of some serious gum disease. This is why regular dental care should be part of your preventative efforts to preserve your animal’s health. By the time you pick up on the nasty breath and rotting teeth, chances are you may not have the time to scrape the funds together for the veterinary care needed.

Not all pet medical aids covers dental insurance, but the premiums of the ones that do are well worth it. Something as simple as a basic brush scale and polish can cost anywhere between R1,000 and R1,500 or more.

Meanwhile, the price tag on a rotten tooth stands at roughly R2,500, since it includes the anaesthetic costs as well as scaling and polishing. This price is subject to change based on the size and age of your pet. For example, older dogs would need special care, while larger dogs naturally need more anaesthetic.

Image: Adobe Stock / moodboard

Ask Us About Pet Medical Aid That Covers Dental

While comprehensive dental care will mean more regular visits to the vet, a pet insurance policy that covers dental procedures and routine oral healthcare will guarantee good health both your pet and your finances. While dog breath becomes a thing of the past, you can also breathe easier, knowing that your budget won’t be upended by expensive vet bills due to dental procedures. Apply for pet insurance quotes in minutes and ask about which insurers offer dental healthcare as part of their policy benefits.

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Avocado

It turns out, every Millennial’s favourite superfood is a dog’s health nightmare. This is due to a fungicidal toxin called persin. While this is harmless to humans, large quantities can be highly dangerous to your pup. This toxin may cause vomiting or diarrhoea in dogs. If you grow avos at home, make sure you keep your dog away from the plants, since the toxin is present, not only in the fruit itself, but also in the leaves, seed and bark. What’s more, the sizeable seed can get stuck in the intestines or stomach, and this obstruction could prove fatal. If you catch your dog chowing down at the guacamole bowl, call your pet insurance company and get your goodest boy to the vet.

Alcohol

Your sundowner has the same effect on a dog’s liver and brain as it does on yours – only it takes a lot less to do more damage your pup’s body. Even a little beer, wine, liquor, or even food with alcohol can hurt your dog. It can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, breathing problems, coma, and even death! The smaller the dog, the more dire the effects.

Caffeine

The same stuff that perks us up in the morning is sadly also capable of putting your dog into that long sleep. Anything with caffeine, like coffee, tea, energy drinks, and even some cold medicines and painkillers, can prove fatal. If you suspect your dog may have ingested caffeine in one form or another, get your pooch to the vet as soon as possible!

Chocolate

It might be our favourite treat, but it can prove deadly to our sweet fur babies. While a little dark chocolate may be good for us, it can be detrimental for our pups. The issue lies in theobromine, which is present in all kinds of chocolate, even white chocolate, can cause your dog to vomit and have an upset stomach. In the more extreme cases, it can also cause heart problems, seizures, and death. Rather keep curious paws out of the family sweetie jar.

Fat Trimmings and Bones

This one may be the strangest on the list. Just think about how excited your pup gets at the sight of a big, juicy bone. However, both cooked and uncooked fat trimmed from meat can cause pancreatitis in dogs. And the bones? These can splinter and do some serious damage to your dog’s digestive system.

Image: Adobe Stock / AnnaFotyma

What Can Pet Insurance Do For Your Poisoned Pup?

Apart from pet medical insurance, taking care with your pet’s diet can save you a lot of money in vet bills. At the end of the day, the best person to consult about your dog’s diet is your local vet. However, both consultation and emergency surgeries can cut into your savings. That’s where a pet medical aid can spare your savings for happy days. Apply for pet insurance quotes in minutes!

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