Pet Insurance is Going to the Birds

Birds make excellent pets. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, there are an estimated 12.6 million pet birds in the United States. The cost of purchasing and maintaining this avian addition to your family may seem to be less expensive as compared to a cat or dog but this in not always the case. The larger, hand raised, tamer feathered friends come with a premium price tag.

Depending on the bird you choose, its life span may be a few years or it could out live you. Though yearly vaccines are not typically given to the majority of pet birds, this doesn't mean they don't need routine medical care. Many of the same ailments that plague a bird's caregiver, can also affect these winged wonders.

Survival of the fittest has lead birds to adopt the behavior of disguising their signs of illness. Too often, when a bird finally appears ill, it may be too late to help. In an attempt to promote bird wellness, veterinary medical insurance is now being offered nationally. By helping to defray the cost of medical care, owners will hopefully be more inclined to obtain routine exams, and indicated lab tests. Early detection and treatment can often result in avoiding potentially life-threatening problems.

No matter if your nonhuman member of the family is a bird, kitten, dog, duck or lizard, there are affordable insurance plans for your pet. For more information on insurance or individual medical concerns, see your veterinarian because it is "Your Pet…Health Matters.