More and more people – and their furry friends – are signing up for pet insurance. Companies such as Home Depot, Sprint and the Walt Disney Co. are offering the insurance to their employees at a discount. Here are some factors to consider before signing up:

¢ Understand the exclusions. Almost all policies exclude pre-existing conditions and some exclude hereditary conditions. Some may exclude certain conditions unique to certain breeds.

¢ Almost all policies have a deductible and a copay requirement. Some pay according to a set schedule of “usual and customary fees” while some pay based on the actual incurred expense. Be sure you understand how expenses will be reimbursed.

¢ Be sure you understand what the policy covers. Some policies (but not all) cover some preventive care, such as vaccinations, but there may be additional cost for this coverage.

¢ Ask whether the policy allows you to seek care from a veterinarian of your own choosing or whether you must go to a veterinarian that participates in the company’s network of providers.

¢ Talk to your veterinarian. Vets don’t sell insurance, but chances are they are familiar with various policies and can provide guidance.