Why Pet Insurance Is a Smart Move:
A Havanese Breeder’s Perspective
As someone who has spent years breeding and raising Havanese dogs, I’ve learned more than a few lessons about keeping our four-legged companions healthy and happy. These sweet, affectionate, and surprisingly hardy little dogs are known for their playful personalities and strong bonds with their humans. But like all dogs, they can face unexpected health issues—and that’s where pet insurance comes in.
I talk to every new puppy family about what it means to take care of a dog for life. It’s not just about feeding them, walking them, or scheduling annual checkups. It’s also about being prepared for the unexpected. And no matter how healthy your dog seems, veterinary emergencies and illnesses can (and do) happen.
That’s why I always recommend pet insurance to new dog owners—it’s one of the smartest decisions you can make for your dog and your wallet.
1. Veterinary Care Is More Advanced—And More Expensive
We’re lucky to live in a time when veterinary medicine has made incredible strides. From advanced diagnostics to life-saving surgeries, our pets now have access to the kind of care that used to be reserved for humans. But that care comes at a cost.
Torn ligament surgery can cost over $3,000
Emergency treatment (like poisoning or swallowed toys) often runs $1,500–$4,000
Chronic conditions, such as allergies or joint issues, can lead to recurring costs
As a Havanese breeder, I’ve seen it all—dogs who only need routine care, and others who face surprise health events even before age two. Pet insurance helps turn those “uh-oh” moments into manageable ones, so you can focus on care, not cost.
2. You Never Know—So Enroll Early
Havanese are generally robust little dogs, but anything can happen. Even a mild allergy might require:
Prescription meds
Special diets
Frequent vet visits
An exercise-related strain could uncover a hip issue. But with pet insurance, you’ve got help covering the bills—especially if you enroll early, before symptoms or injuries appear.
Many plans don’t cover pre-existing conditions, so the best time to sign up is when your dog is young and healthy.
3. Emergencies Happen When You Least Expect Them
The worst feeling? Having to delay or decline treatment due to cost.
Whether it’s:
A swallowed sock
A bee sting that causes a reaction
An unexpected overnight stay at the vet
Pet insurance can reimburse you for a significant portion of these expenses, often 70% to 90%. It provides peace of mind—so you can focus on helping your pup recover, not your bank balance.
4. Insurance Encourages Proactive, Ongoing Care
Many plans include wellness coverage, which helps with:
Vaccinations
Dental cleanings
Flea and tick prevention
Routine lab work
This proactive care catches health issues early—saving money and improving outcomes. For example, dental disease affects most dogs by age three. Preventive cleanings can stop infections and reduce the risk of heart or kidney disease.
With insurance, families tend to visit the vet more consistently, because they’re not worried about cost.
An Investment in Peace of Mind
Yes, you’ll pay a monthly premium—but when that unexpected vet bill hits $2,000, that premium will feel more than worth it.
Consider that:
Most plans reimburse 70–90% of covered expenses
Some Havanese live 14 to 16+ years
Even routine care adds up over time
Pet insurance lets you plan for the unexpected. It’s a safety net. Hopefully you won’t need it often—but if you do, you’ll be glad it’s there.
Final Thoughts
Choose a plan that fits your budget, enroll early, and sleep a little easier knowing your dog is covered. They’d do anything for us—it’s our job to do the same for them.