For many people, pets are an integral part of the family. They offer companionship, joy and unconditional love. Just as we look after the health and well-being of the human members of the household, it's also essential to ensure that our four-legged companions are properly protected. In this context, pet insurance has become an increasingly popular solution for responsible pet owners. What is animal insurance? Pet insurance is a product that covers various expenses associated with a pet's well-being, including:

• Veterinary consultations and medical treatments;
• Surgeries and hospitalisations;
• Complementary diagnostic tests (X-rays, ultrasounds, analyses, among others);
• Prescription drugs;
• Vaccinations;
• Civil liability, if the animal causes damage to third parties;
• Support in the event of theft, disappearance or death of the animal.

Advantages of animal insurance

1. Financial peace of mind

The costs of veterinary care can be considerable, especially in unexpected situations. Insurance helps to avoid unforeseen expenses and ensures that the animal receives the best care, without jeopardising the household budget.

2. Access to quality care

With active insurance, owners tend to go for regular and preventive veterinary services more often, thus promoting a longer and healthier life for their animals.

3. Civil Liability

In the event that the animal causes damage to third parties, such as a bite or an accident, the insurance covers legal compensation, protecting the policyholder from potentially significant charges.

4. Complete assistance

From telephone support in the event of an emergency to cover when travelling, the most comprehensive pet insurance policies offer a wide range of services to make everyday life easier for pet owners. Who is it for? This type of insurance is especially suitable for those who:

• You own dogs or cats (although some insurers also accept other types of animals);
• It aims to guarantee access to quality veterinary health care;
• You want to protect yourself financially against unforeseen events related to the animal;
• You need to fulfil legal obligations, such as in the case of dogs of potentially dangerous breeds, for which liability insurance is compulsory in Portugal.

How do I choose the right pet insurance? Before taking out animal insurance, it is important to consider the following aspects:

• Assessment of the animal's needs (age, breed, medical history);
• Comparison of cover and exclusions from different insurers;
• Checking reimbursement limits and applicable deductibles;
• Analysis of grace periods;
• Confirmation that the usual veterinary surgeon has been included in the insurer's network (where applicable).

Pet insurance is an effective way of showing care, love and responsibility for pets. More than an expense, it represents an investment in the animal's well-being and the peace of mind of its owners. Exato Seguros offers solutions tailored to the needs of each client and their pet, with flexible cover, competitive premiums and close, personalised support, as only a true partner can offer.