I realized that was life was finite. I had never thought about that before.

when you said “cancer is about reinventing yourself” it really rang true for me.

I think the word “ephiphany” could be used to describe what happens when we go through the treatment & recovery phases of cancer. it’s like a dream, a life changing dream. from then on, nothing is as it once was.
you make a difference, my friend.

I’m responsible for two Pet Insurance programs underwritten by the Markel Group of insurance companies. In my view, insurance companies have an obligation to communicate clearly what is and isn’t covered in their solicitations and marketing. By the same token, consumers should read those solicitations, marketing, and policies closely and make certain they understand what they are buying. I can’t think of any insurance that covers everything (nor is it possible) so both parties need to do their part. In my 27 years in the insurance industry, I’ve seen plenty of miscommunication on both sides.

Frankly, given the dynamics of our capitalist system and the heavy regulation of insurance, consumers should be having good experiences from their insurance purchases. Industry regulation acts to protect consumers, and insurance companies operate in a very competitive environment that over time always identifies the best in class (I was going to say best in breed but…haha).

Pet Insurance is not required (like auto or homeowners under most circumstances) so individuals have the option to choose from among many products and self insurance. At present, roughly 1% of pets are covered which makes it more difficult for insurance companies to “cover more for less.” This is because this purchase dynamic causes those who are most likely to need insurance to buy it (i.e. owners of large dogs prone to hip dysplasia which is why it is often excluded). If most owners insured their pets, coverage could be increased and premiums would go down.

For my money, the only real reason for buying insurance is to cover the unpredictable and unaffordable. That means higher deductibles (an element of self insurance) and higher limits and the hope that I’ll never need it. Fundamentally, one of Pet Insurance’s principle objectives should be to eliminate economic euthanasia. Insurance really shouldn’t be one of those things we complain about not getting our moneys worth. But, we should get everything promised in the solicitation, marketing, and policy.

Just an attempt at a few balanced thoughts from someone that works for a pet insurance company.

Try our doggie daycare listings in Alaska… they are more often than not boarding facilities as well… here is the link: http://www.pawprintsthemagazine.com/?p=5237