January 14, 2005

A happy and healthy Cody

Even pets need insurance

Many pet owners consider their pets to be a part of their families. And just like family members who can benefit from health insurance when they are sick, so can pets. That's why Bonnie Michelman, director of MGH Police and Security, and other employee pet owners have signed up for a policy through Veterinary Pet Insurance (VPI) that the MGH Perks program offers at a discounted rate.

After having dogs throughout her life and watching the cost of veterinary visits rise, Michelman decided to give pet insurance a try for Cody, her 1-year-old golden retriever. "The insurance makes me feel more comfortable bringing Cody to the vet's office for minor or less serious issues and especially if there is something major that happens," says Michelman.

VPI policies can help pay for diagnostic tests, treatments, office visits, lab fees, prescriptions, hospitalization, x-rays and surgical procedures. There also are policies that include vaccinations and routine care coverage. The one thing VPI will not cover is pre-existing conditions. MGH employees receive a 5 percent group savings off the base premium of either the VPI Superior Plan or the VPI Standard Plan policy.

"Having pet insurance allows me to be proactive with Cody's health," says Michelman.

This program is offered through MGH Perks as a direct enrollment with VPI and is not available through payroll deduction. For more information, call VPI at (800) 872-7387 or visit www.petinsurance.com.