If you’re wondering how to afford top-notch pet care without your credit going to the dogs, you may want to consider pet insurance.

First, check out the coverage. In some cases, specific animals or breeds are not insured or are considered “high risk.” Some plans limit the number of insurable pets, while others give multiple-pet discounts. Is the coverage just for emergency or intensive treatment, or is routine care included? Find out how pre-existing conditions are defined and handled and ask if premiums will increase as your pet ages. Also, since most pet insurance consists of reimbursement plans, know the protocol ahead of time. Finally, make sure you can still choose your veterinarian.

So whether you have a traditional pet or something more exotic, pet insurance may be just what the doctor ordered.