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                    [post_content] => Are you considering pet insurance to help defray the costs of caring for your pet? If so, please consider the following site:  Pet Insurance Reviews is a helpful resource for researching the best insurance solution for your family's needs.
Research
All pet insurance companies are not the same and coverage varies. The best advice I can give is that no matter what you end up choosing, read the legal documents. They go into significantly more detail than the website. Insurance companies are not hiding anything from you, the legal documents are available on their websites. It’s just up to you to decide how deep you want to go.

All the insurance companies I researched were transparent and straightforward; their websites were clear and easy to navigate and the information I wanted was available. Many provide a live chat option too if you can’t find your answers on their websites, or would rather speak to a person.
Related Links from our Blog:

	
Afterthoughts on Pet Insurance - A Sound Investment
	
Why you should buy pet insurance, even for a young healthy pet
	
Decisions in Pet Insurance

 
                    [post_title] => Researching Pet Insurance
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                    [post_date] => 2013-07-09 14:21:44
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                    [post_content] => 
Congratulations on adding a new cat to your family!
You probably have a lot of questions.
Bulger's Kitten Kit is a pack we hand out to new cat owners. It answers many questions about vaccinations, training, feeding and nurturing your kitten.

We hope it helps, but if you have more questions, please don't hesitate to call or make an appointment.

Simply click the icon above and enjoy. You should be able to easily save clippings, add bookmarks, print, and share the pack with your friends.

Here's to many happy, healthy years with your new (and current) cat(s)!
                    [post_title] => Me and My New Kitten
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                    [post_date] => 2013-07-09 11:47:25
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                    [post_content] => 
Congratulations on adding a new dog to your family!
You probably have a lot of questions.
Bulger's Puppy Pack is a kit we hand out to new dog owners. It answers many questions about vaccinations, training, feeding and nurturing your new dog.

We hope it helps, but if you have more questions, please don't hesitate to call or make an appointment.

Simply click the icon above and enjoy. You should be able to easily save clippings, add bookmarks, print, and share the pack with your friends.

Here's to many happy, healthy years with your new (and current) dog(s)!
                    [post_title] => Me and My New Puppy
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                    [post_date] => 2012-11-14 15:41:48
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                    [post_content] => 
Frequently asked questions about Chemotherapy:
What is Chemotherapy?
The use of a drug or chemical to treat any illness is referred to as "chemotherapy", but this term commonly refers to the use of drugs in the systemic treatment of cancer.

The ultimate goal of chemotherapy would be to cure the patient of cancer.  In most instances (and at this point in time in veterinary medicine), this is not a realistic goal.  Until we can cure cancer, our goals are to:

	
Control rapidly progressive disease
	
Prevent spread of the tumor
	
Restore deteriorated function
	
And provide a good quality of life during the time of remission.

The term "remission"  refers to the time interval during which there are no outward signs that the patient has cancer.  Unfortunately, it is not possible to predict which animals will achieve full remission, nor how long it will take and how long it will last if remission is achieved. Every patient and pet-owner relationship is different and is managed on an individual basis.

In appropriate situations, chemotherapy can be used to benefit pets with cancer.  Most pets tolerate chemotherapy well, do not realize that they are ill, and appear to enjoy their extended life.  However, each owner must believe that they are doing the right thing for their pet, in their situation.  If it were ever obvious that therapy was not working, or that the pet was experiencing pain or discomfort, we would work with you to discuss any changes in the treatment plan, and tailor a new approach, as needed.

 
How Does Chemotherapy Work?
Cancer cells generally multiply very rapidly.  Most chemotherapy drugs work by damaging rapidly growing cells (including both cancer cells and some normal cells in the body).  Different drugs interfere with different steps in the process of cell growth and division.  This decreases the ability of these rapidly growing cells to divide, and kills them.

Some newer chemotherapy drugs (called targeted therapies) have been designed to attack more specific targets that may be found on certain cancer cells.  In many cases, a combination of drugs is the most effective way to kill the cancer cells. Your pet's treatment dose and schedule will depend on the type of cancer and the chemotherapy method.

How is Chemotherapy Given?
The oncologist will examine your pet and consult in detail with you and your regular veterinarian. Together a decision will be made about whether to pursue chemotherapy (based on your pet's type of cancer and prognosis) and which protocol would best be applied.

If chemotherapy is given to your pet, our veterinary oncologist will tailor the course of therapy carefully.  Treatment for each patient is individually managed, although specific chemotherapy protocols consisting of several different drugs are followed for different types of cancer.

The majority of chemotherapy drugs are given by intravenous injection, but some are given by mouth. Prior to each treatment a blood sample will be drawn. The white blood cell count, red blood cell count, and platelet count will be checked to ensure that it is safe to proceed with treatment; in some cases, your pet may not receive treatment due to a low white or red blood cell count.

The route chosen depends on the type of cancer being treated and how well the therapy is tolerated by the patient. Treatment may be prescribed on a daily, weekly or monthly basis.  The specific length of your pet's individual course of treatment will be discussed in detail with you.

 
Will My Pet Experience Side Effects?
Maybe.

Chemotherapy is a word that creates an instant emotional response in everyone.  Visions of debilitating nausea, vomiting, coupled with loss of hair and lack of energy are associated with the term. However, the reality of chemotherapy for animals is much different than that of human cancer patients.

For animals receiving chemotherapy, quality of life for the patient is the primary concern for us and for each pet's owner.  Doses of drugs and treatment schedules are designed to minimize discomfort to the patient, while providing the most effective defense against the disease.  As a result, most people are pleasantly surprised at how well their pets feel while undergoing chemotherapy.

Ideally, the animal receiving chemotherapy does not even realize that he or she is ill, and most of our patients do not have side effects with treatment.  The drugs used in chemotherapy, however, are extremely potent and side effects can occur in about 20-30% of animals who receive chemotherapy treatment.  The potential for side effects must be balanced against the benefits of the chemotherapy and the side effects of the cancer if left untreated.  Choosing chemotherapy for your pet is an individual decision.

 
What Are the Most Common Side Effects?
The most common side effect reported by owners is that their pet seems to be “off” for a day or two.  This might mean that he or she has slightly less energy or seems less excited about eating, than usual. Less commonly, he or she may skip a meal or two, have one episode of vomiting or diarrhea, or seem unusually lethargic.

Unfortunately, there is no way to predict whether your pet will develop serious reactions.  The animal receiving chemotherapy needs to be watched closely and will need to be taken to his or her veterinarian at the first sign of illness.  Although serious side effects can occur with any chemotherapy, there is less than a 5% chance that a patient will be hospitalized with side effects, and less than a 1% chance of fatality caused by overwhelming infections.

 
What Other Side-Effects May Occur?
Practically all anti cancer drugs have side effects.  These side effects arise because the normal cells in the body are also exposed to the anti cancer drug.  The most sensitive normal cells are found in the blood, gastrointestinal tract, skin, and reproductive system.  Consequently, potential side effects include infections, bleeding, decreased appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, thin hair coat or skin color changes, and sterility.

Rare side effects associated with specific drugs include bladder discomfort, kidney damage and heart failure.  Although serious adverse effects can occur with any chemotherapy, there is less than a 5% chance that a patient will be hospitalized with side effects and less than a 1% chance of fatality caused by overwhelming infections.  However, in general the potential benefit of treatment with anti cancer drugs outweighs the possible side effects.  Below are listed some of the potential side effects of many chemotherapeutic agents in more detail:

	
Nausea (and refusal to eat) can occur in veterinary patients, and seems to occur more frequently in cats than in dogs.  If this happens, it usually occurs 2-5 days after treatment, and it is usually transient requiring no specific treatment.  Tempting the pet with favorite foods, and warming the foods slightly will often increase the liklihood that he or she will eat.  If this condition persists, medication to reduce nausea and promote appetite can be used.
	
Vomiting can also occur during treatment; also typically 2-5 days after a treatment has been given.  If your pet vomits once or twice, and otherwise seems bright, active, and alert, withhold food and water for 12 hours and then reintroduce water.  If your pet does not vomit after drinking water, you can offer food.  If the vomiting is repetitive (more than 3-4 times) or contains blood, if vomiting resumes with feeding, or if your pet is lethargic, weak, or depressed, consider bringing him or her to your vet, he or she may need medical attention.


	
Diarrhea may occur, but is often mild and transient. If stools are soft, feed bland food (boiled chicken and rice) for dogs.  If the diarrhea is bloody, watery, persists for more than 24 hours, or if your pet is lethargic and has diarrhea, veterinary attention is required.
	
Hair Loss (Alopecia): Pets rarely lose their hair, but if they do, they are not bothered by it as much as people are.  In most pets, hair does not grow continually throughout their lives like it does in people; therefore, hair loss in pets is rare.  Exceptions are certain breeds of dogs, such as poodles, Old English Sheepdogs and other breeds whose hair grows continually.
In general, if a pet needs to visit a groomer periodically to be clipped, then the pet may experience some degree of hair loss as a result of chemotherapy.
Cats may, however, lose all or most of their whiskers.
	
Reduction in the Number of White Blood Cells (Neutropenia):There are various types of cells in the blood.  The decrease in the number of infection fighting white blood cells is known as neutropenia.  Many chemotherapeutic agents impair the body's ability to produce these white blood cells.  As a result, neutropenia may occur seven to ten days after chemotherapy.Neutropenia, alone, is not a danger to a patient.  However a patient's ability to fight off infection is impaired by neutropenia.  Prior to each dose of chemotherapy, we perform a complete physical exam and a blood test called a complete blood count (CBC) to make sure it is safe to administer the next chemotherapy treatment. Should the patient have a significant reduction in the number of white blood cells, the doctor may want to delay chemotherapy treatment and/or prescribe antibiotics to protect against infection.


	
Hematuria (bloody urine):One of the chemotherapy drugs that we use Cytoxan (cyclophosphamide) may occasionally cause hematuria (bloody urine) in dogs.  If this occurs, you should discontinue the medication immediately and contact us by phone. This side effect is specific to Cytoxan (cyclophosphamide).  If bloody urine occurs and Cytoxan (cyclophosphamide) is not being used, contact us or your regular veterinarian for evaluation.
	
Fever/Sepsis: Virtually all chemotherapeutic drugs can temporarily suppress the body's ability to fight infections.  If the white blood cell count (specifically neutrophils) drops too much your pet runs the risk of developing a systemic infection.  Your pet will usually develop a fever (but not always).  If the bacteria travel through the bloodstream, it is known as sepsis.  In rare cases, shock can occur (septic shock), and without rapid treatment, the risk of death is high.  Though this period of susceptibility is brief, and occurs at a fairly predictable time, its consequences can be life threatening. Signs of fever or sepsis include:



	
Fever greater than 103F: (temperature is taken by a rectal thermometer and should normally be between 99F and 102.8F). If you think your pet may have an infection, you may check your dog’s temperature rectally at home (cats usually will not tolerate this).  A digital thermometer is easiest to use; if it is 103 degrees or higher, please call us.  If signs of an infection are noted, we will recommend that you bring your pet to the hospital for examination and treatment as soon as possible.  This situation can be treated rapidly and almost always successfully. However, an extended delay before initiation of treatment may result in health complications or even death.  We can see your pet at any time of the day or night if you suspect your pet has an infection.
	
Extreme lethargy: Refusal to get up off pet bed, etc.
	
Complete disinterest in food
	
Extreme weakness
	
Pale and somewhat sticky gums
	
Severe vomiting and/or diarrhea

	
Allergic Reactions: Allergic reactions to chemotherapeutic agents are rare and generally will not be something you have to treat at home.  Should a patient have an allergic reaction, it usually develops upon administration and would be treated at the hospital. However signs to look for at home are :

	
a red muzzle/ears
	
scratching/pawing at the face
	
hives
	
vomiting.

	
Heart Damage: In rare cases, some chemotherapeutic agents, such as Adriamycin (doxorubicin), can irreversibly damage the heart muscle.  The dose of these agents prescribed for most dogs is below the dose that usually causes heart disease. Fewer than 10% of patients develop heart disease as a result of chemotherapy.  We may recommend a cardiology consultation prior to administering Adriamycin (doxorubicin) in dogs that have preexisting heart disease or that are at increased risk of heart disease (such as Dobermans, Boxers, and Great Danes).

 
Chemotherapy Precautions
If your pet is receiving chemotherapy, the following precautions should be followed.  In some cases these precautions are not necessary, but it’s best to establish a safe routine.  When in doubt, it is always better to be overly cautious!

Generally, it is safe to have unlimited contact with your pet during chemotherapy.

	
Avoid physical contact with your pet's urine and feces for 48-72 hours after each chemotherapy treatment (depending on the drug administered).

	
Wear gloves when picking up your dog's stool or when cleaning your cat's litter box.
	
Double-bag the waste (for safety) and throw it into the garbage.
	
If your pet urinates or defecates in your home, wear gloves when you clean the area.
	
You can use a regular household cleaner when cleaning the area.



	
Always wear gloves when handling tablets of chemotherapy.  Prednisone, antibiotics and drugs to prevent nausea/diarrhea can be handled safely without gloves.
	
Never split chemotherapy pills.
	
Store pills safely out of the reach of children and pets.
	
Pregnant or nursing women, people actively trying to conceive (both men and women), immunosuppressed individuals, and children should avoid all contact with chemotherapy drugs and the waste from pets treated with chemotherapy.


What Happens After Treatment is Over?
It is important for your veterinary oncologist, or your regular veterinarian to examine your pet periodically after chemotherapy is over, usually at 1 –2 month intervals.  This will allow potential problems, such as recurrence of the cancer, to be detected before they become too advanced.  Treatment options will be more numerous, and have a greater potential for success, when problems are identified early.

Finally, it is important for owners of pets who have had chemotherapy to realize that the cancers we treat are rarely cured.

Almost all of our patients ultimately have recurrence of their cancers. However, it is vital to understand that most pets receiving chemotherapy have an excellent quality of life both during and after treatment.  It is often possible to provide many additional months, or sometimes even years, of happy life with chemotherapy.  The  majority of owners tell us that they have no regrets about their decision to pursue chemotherapy for their pet.
                    [post_title] => Chemotherapy
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                    [post_date] => 2012-09-27 11:33:18
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                    [post_content] => 
Considering Cataract Surgery, but you still have questions?
The American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists (ACVO) have produced a short video exploring  the causes, detection, effects and treatment of cataract in dogs and cats. For more information visit the ACVO's website.



 
Cataracts: Before, During & After:
Baby was a sweet little two-year old Pitbull with cataracts in both eyes. MSPCA-Nevins Farm in Methuen knew it would be hard to rehome her despite her loving personality. Dr. Marrion performed the surgery on Baby with the goal of giving Baby the chance at a full and happy life!

[caption id="attachment_3214" align="aligncenter" width="450" caption="Before: Both of Baby's eyes are cloudy with cataracts. During cataract surgery, Dr. Marrion replaces the lenses in Baby's eyes. After: 1 hour after the first picture was taken, Baby is waking up, and can once again see through her pretty brown eyes."][/caption]
                    [post_title] => Cataract Surgery Video
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                    [post_modified] => 2012-09-27 12:51:54
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                    [post_content] => Here is a short video created by the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmology (ACVO) that addresses many questions about what a veterinary ophthalmologist does and can do.


                    [post_title] => What is Veterinary Ophthalmology?
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                    [post_date] => 2011-03-16 10:54:47
                    [post_date_gmt] => 2011-03-16 14:54:47
                    [post_content] => Don't panic ... and don't let them run loose in the house either (if you can help it), they'll rub up against every bit of furniture you own (personal experience). Here's the recipe:
Ingredients:
1Qt. 3% Hydrogen Peroxide
1/4 cup Baking Soda
2 tsp Dawn Liquid Dish Soap.
Steps:

	
Do not spray your dog or cat with water yet.
	
Mix the above ingredients together. It will fizz.
	
Soak your dog or cat's fur with the mix and let it soak in for about 20 minutes. Keep the mix out of your pet's eyes. Use a sponge to clean his or her head and around their eyes.
	
Knead the solution into the fur, be sure to get every part of your pet with the mixture.
	
After about 20 minutes rinse thoroughly with water.

Notes:

	
Avoid contact with your pet's eyes. If your pet's eyes are red and swollen, contact your vet.
	
Don't premix the recipe. Keep the ingredients separate until you need them.
	
Double or triple the recipe for larger dogs. This amount should be enough for a small - medium sized dog or cat.

                    [post_title] => Skunk Odor Remover Recipe
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                    [post_modified] => 2015-03-11 14:37:09
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                    [post_date] => 2011-01-04 16:01:11
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                    [post_content] => In order to obtain the title of board certified specialist and receive board certification, individuals must complete all of the following steps in the chosen field of specialty study.

A veterinarian is an individual with DVM or VMD after their name, who has completed the following educational requirements: 

	
Receive an undergraduate degree.
	
Complete four years of veterinary school.
	
Pass the North American Veterinary Licensing Exam (NAVLE) in order to achieve licensing.
	
Pass the licensing exam for the state in which they wish to practice.

A board certified specialist is an individual with a DVM/VMD and the letters DACV… plus the initials of the area of their study, following their name. To receive board certification they must complete all of the following educational requirements:

	
Receive an undergraduate degree.
	
Complete four years of veterinary school.
	
Receive advanced training during a one-year internship program.
	
Participate in a three-year residency program completing specific training and caseload requirements under the supervision of other board-certified individuals.
	
Conduct research and publish in scientific journals.
	
Following this training, candidates must submit a credentials application then pass a rigorous examination evaluating knowledge and training in the specific area of specialization.
	
Once all credentials have been met, and the individual passes the exam, the status of board-certified specialist is granted.

                    [post_title] => Board Certified Specialist
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                    [post_name] => board-certified-specialist
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                    [post_content] => 
Ear Cleaning

	
Grasp the flap of the ear and gently pull it straight up and slightly away from the head towards you to open the ear canal.
	
Fill the ear with the prescribed cleanser until the liquid starts to  spill out of the ear canal.  Some of this cleaning liquid may also be  rubbed on the ear flap if necessary.
	
Grasp the ear cartilage at the base of the ear and gently squeeze or  massage the ear canal. You will hear the medication “squish” in the  ear. Continue with the massage for a few seconds.
	
Restrain your pet for a few minutes to allow the cleaning solution  to penetrate to the deeper ear canal and to dissolve the wax and debris.
	
You can continue to massage the medication at this time intermittently.
	
After that allow your pet to shake the cleaning solution from the ear.
	
Remove loose debris from the ear flap and entrance to the ear canals with a dry cotton ball or gauze pad.
	
Never push cotton swabs into the ear canal! This can force debris further into the ear.
	
Only use the swabs to clean debris from those areas of the ear that you can clearly see.
	
Repeat the cleaning procedure as prescribed by your doctor in the discharge orders.
	
Ear medication should be placed in the ear after the cleaning  process, not before. You should apply the medications at least 30  minutes after cleaning.
	
Please ensure that your pet has stopped shaking his head vigorously prior to applying medications.

Medication Application

	
Apply all medications as prescribed on your discharge orders.  The  orders will outline number of drops, which ear or ears, how many times a  day, and for how long:
	
Place the first medication in the ear.
	
Massage the ear canals as outlined above for the cleaning  procedure.  If you have enough medication in the ear, you will begin to  hear a ‘squishing’ noise as you massage.
	
If a second medication has been prescribed, it should be applied  30-60 minutes after the first medication unless otherwise directed.
	
If the inner part of the ear flap is involved, place a small amount  of the prescribed medication on the affected part of the flap with your  finger forming a thin layer.  You should wear gloves while applying it  or wash your hands immediately afterwards.
	
If medication/debris is noted to accumulate on the flap of the ear,  it can be washed away with shampoo. Prior to shampooing, the opening to  the ear canal should be plugged with cotton balls to prevent water from  getting into the ear canals. Ensure all cotton balls are removed post  shampoo.

*Note: Allergic reactions to ear medication can occur. Signs of an allergic  reaction include excessive redness, blisters, or sores around the ear  canal opening, inner ear flap, or base of the ear. If any of these signs  are noted or if your pet seems overly irritated or in pain when  applying medication, please discontinue all ear medication and contact us immediately.
                    [post_title] => Ear Cleaning and Medicating
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Why do I need to shampoo my dog?

	
Topical (applied to the skin) therapy is a crucial part of therapy for many skin diseases.
	
Topical therapy:

	
Removes bacteria, yeast, and allergens from the skin and haircoat
	
Helps reduce itching and scaling (dandruff)
	
Makes your pet look, smell, and feel better



If my shampoo is good enough for me, why isn’t it good for my pet?

	
Not all shampoo products are created equal
	
Human shampoo is pH balanced for human skin, which has a pH around 5.5 - your pet’s skin has a higher pH of 6-8.5
	
Human shampoos are much more irritating and drying to your pet’s skin

What are my choices of topical therapy?

	
Anti-bacterials: Target the bacterial overgrowth on your pet’s skin
	
Anti-fungals: Target fungal overgrowth, especially yeast, which can cause intense itching
	
Anti-seborrheics: Target dry scaling or greasiness
	
Anti-pruritics: Help reduce itching

Instructions for Shampoo Therapy

	
Plug pet’s ear canals with a couple of cotton balls to prevent water from entering the ear.
	
Use large amounts of lukewarm water to wet down the haircoat and skin thoroughly. It is important that the water is not too warm because increased water temperature can increase itching.
	
Use a generous dollop of the prescribed topical therapy to achieve a good lather all over your pet (some medicated shampoos may not lather as well as others). Avoid getting shampoo in the eyes.  You can use a washcloth to wash face or avoid face if that isn’t a problem area.
	
Pay particular attention and shampoo the skin folds around the mouth and tail, underneath the dog (armpits and groin areas), between the toes and pads, and both sides of the ear flaps.
	
Set a timer and allow a skin contact time of 10-15 minutes. Allow your pet’s paws to soak in the soapy water, especially if the skin problems involve the paws or the base of the claws.
	
Thoroughly rinse the lather off with large amounts of lukewarm water. Spend as much time rinsing as lathering!
	
If prescribed, follow medicated shampoo with a medicated rinse which may be left on for 10 minutes and rinsed off or massaged into coat and skin while wet and left dry as prescribed by your dermatologist.
	
Hand dry with a towel. Never use a hair dryer unless on a cool setting. Remember: increased temperature can increase itching.
	
Don’t forget to remove the cotton balls from both ear canals after bathing.
	
Repeat 2-3 times a week or as instructed by your dermatologist.

Notes

	
We recommend that you wear gloves when bathing your pet or applying any topical medications. People and pets can develop an irritation or an allergic reaction to a topical ingredient.
	
If you notice that your pet’s skin appears worse after bathing (itchier, redder or more irritated or develops new blisters or sores), please discontinue use of the product until you speak with a member of the dermatology team.
	
Sulfur-containing shampoos may stain jewelry. Benzoyl peroxide-containing products can bleach towels, fabrics, and carpets.

Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have further questions or concerns about your pet.
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            [post_date] => 2019-02-20 12:50:18
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            [post_content] => Are you considering pet insurance to help defray the costs of caring for your pet? If so, please consider the following site:  Pet Insurance Reviews is a helpful resource for researching the best insurance solution for your family's needs.
Research
All pet insurance companies are not the same and coverage varies. The best advice I can give is that no matter what you end up choosing, read the legal documents. They go into significantly more detail than the website. Insurance companies are not hiding anything from you, the legal documents are available on their websites. It’s just up to you to decide how deep you want to go.

All the insurance companies I researched were transparent and straightforward; their websites were clear and easy to navigate and the information I wanted was available. Many provide a live chat option too if you can’t find your answers on their websites, or would rather speak to a person.
Related Links from our Blog:

	
Afterthoughts on Pet Insurance - A Sound Investment
	
Why you should buy pet insurance, even for a young healthy pet
	
Decisions in Pet Insurance

 
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