For many people, pets are not just animals, they are part of the family. And that means giving them the best possible care and attention, from a healthy diet to regular grooming, vet visits (and if a condition is diagnosed) all the treatments and procedures money can buy.

Unfortunately, that can cost a lot of money. In the last decade, veterinary science has grown by leaps and bounds. Tests and treatments that were once available only to humans are now being applied to our furry friends, making it possible to cure once-fatal conditions.

For example, the incidence of cancer is much higher in animals than in humans. Before, veterinarians simply opted for euthanasia. Today, concerned homeowners can choose to receive radiation therapy or kidney transplants, at a staggering price of $ 1,000 to $ 5,000 or more. This does not include the cost of MRIs and other screening tests, nor the premium vitamins and foods that veterinarians will prescribe to boost the immune system of a sick or aging animal.

Veterinarians have increased their fees as well, making even regular checkups and procedures a bit of a pain on the pocketbook. Studies show that owners are paying up to 73% more than they paid five years ago, making veterinary care one of the fastest growing industries with a revenue of $ 19 billion.

All of these developments have made pet insurance a more affordable option. What is the two thousand dollars that one can shell out during the life of an average pet, compared to the five thousand dollars that one can spend in a week in a delicate surgery of the hip?

There are also a wider variety of pet insurance policies, so you can choose one that suits your budget and preferences. It is always important to check with the state insurance department if a business is legally registered. Then review the contract and ask the agent to explain what is included and what is not. You can always request additional passengers to give you more complete coverage.

But what should you include? First, you also need to know what conditions your breed is vulnerable to. Also look at where you live (will your area put your pet at risk for car accidents, other dog attacks, injuries?) And your pet’s general health and even their genetic history.

In addition to getting pet insurance, you can also control your pet’s medical expenses by visiting low-cost clinics (you can get the numbers from your local Humane Society). Always seek a second opinion before agreeing to very extensive treatments or antibiotics, and visit websites to learn more about the condition. Some vets will also give away drug samples to help you decide whether or not to commit to a prescription long-term.

It is also much cheaper to keep your pet in optimal health rather than paying for medical treatments. Invest in high-quality food. Proper exercise is also necessary to prevent obesity, which is linked to many health problems. Keeping your pet on a leash can also prevent accidents and even some illnesses that you can catch while roaming unsupervised.

Obtaining pet insurance can be an important factor in controlling your pet’s medical bills, but it is not the only one. It’s nice to have a safety net in case something bad happens, but the best defense is what you do every day: loving and caring for your pet.