Shih Tzu Dog Insurance and how to find the right policy for your Shih Tzu

When your dog is ill it is a stressful time even without having to worry about the cost of his treatment. This is why purchasing health insurance to cover your puppy or dog can be a good idea. However, just like shopping for insurance premiums for your car insurance, contents insurance, etc., shopping for dog insurance will take some time and research to find the right company.

Below are a few basic points to consider to help you gain better understanding of the type of insurance plan a company can offer for your dog.

1. Find out if the insurance company covers any pre-existing health conditions. This is important because if your Shih Tzu becomes ill or receives an injury that stemmed from a previous condition, and the insurance company does not cover pre-existing health problems, you may be paying the expense out of your pocket.

2. Make sure to ask if the company is licensed to offer their services in your state. You generally will not have a problem with this issue, but there is the occasional odd insurance company that covers pets but is not fully legal to do so. In that case, you may come out on the loosing end of an insurance claim.

3. Ask about the age of the company and how long they have offered insurance plans that cover dogs. Although this is not always the case but a fairly new company may not have the experience or the coverage that an older, more experienced service provider might.

4. Make sure you are aware of what the insurance policy does NOT include, such as checkups, heartworm tests, dental care, worms, etc. This is important so you know what to expect to pay if an uncovered health condition with your dog springs up.

5. Find out if the insurance for your Shih Tzu will cover bone scans, medications, re-constructive surgery, and CAT scans. If your dog gets seriously injured and is suspected of having a major condition as a result, he may need the above mentioned procedures and tests. These can be quite expensive if the insurance plan does not include them in the service.

6. And of course, be sure to know what your deductible will be. In addition, ask if there is a cap on any specific type of illness or accidents your dog may possibly be in.