Any insurer writing any coverage to which the provisions of R.S. 17:17-1 apply may offer group or individual policies or contracts which provide benefits for hospital and medical services for pets, provided that these services are provided by a veterinarian licensed pursuant to chapter 16 of Title 45 of the Revised Statutes or by the laws of any other state. The policy or contract may provide for exclusions or deductibles, or both. As used in this section, "pet" means any domesticated animal normally maintained in or near the household of the owner thereof.
N.J.S. § 17:46D-1