It may just be a sign of the times, or it may be common sense, but the recent announcement that SWBR, a diversified financial services company in San Antonio, TX and PurinaCare® Pet Health Insurance have partnered to provide pet health insurance as a member benefit is encouraging to pet folks like me.

PurinaCare is working hard to reach out to pet owners to let them know pet insurance is a good idea, not just because it saves any of us money (although it can), but because it gives us peace of mind. Within that focus is the realization that there are other ways to offer this insurance option, beyond the quote box on the PurinaCare website, or on this blog.

SWBR® says, "According to Packaged Facts, the estimated number of insured pets is approximately 850,000 in North American. We're excited to partner with PurinaCare to bring this product to our financial institution partners, so their clients can benefit."

That may be PR speak, but it demonstrates the value we pet folks put on our cats and dogs. We love'em. Pure and simple. And, those of us who have ever experienced the tragedy of a car accident, or major diseases, or issues with our pet's health that required veterinary care of a long period of time, have been waiting for pet health insurance to "grow up" and be considered an important part of pet ownership. 

We insure our cars, don't we? Is it because the car wants you to fix it, after an accident? No, it's to insure that WE can get it fixed, and fixed properly...in case of an accident. With pet health insurance, we're secure in the knowledge that our beloved pets can be taken well care of, in case of accident or medical necessity. Just hop over and read about Katie...if you don't believe me. (no, the pic isn't Katie...she's on the link; that's Miles - the apple of Dr. Larry's eye)

Dr. David Goodnight, President and COO of PurinaCare had this to say about this new partnership, "The partnership between these two San Antonio based companies will result in a cost-saving opportunity for hundreds of thousands of pet owners across the country."

Who would argue with that? Goodnight goes on to say, "Pets are family members. Having pet health insurance as a member benefit is a convenient and cost-effective way to manage the rising costs of today's advanced veterinary technology."

I couldn't agree more. This partnership allows members a group discount (groups with a minimum of 100 employees or members) where a five percent discount is applied or any one policy, a 10 percent discount when more than one pet is insured.