I get a lot of questions about pet insurance on a daily basis. While an annual exam with vaccinations may not be very expensive, a complicated surgery or emergency with a visit to an after hours facility can add up really quickly. Sometimes things happen that you aren't prepared for either and having pet insurance can really make the difference.
When deciding which insurance company to use, here are a couple of things to keep in mind:
1. Some policies may not cover routine, annual vaccines.
2. Most insurance plans have deductibles that may range from $50 - $500.
3. There is usually a copay required by the client, in the range of 10% - 20%.
4. Some policies include coverage for kennel fees, up to a maximum.
5. Many policies will cover congenital or hereditary conditions.
6. A few companies will allow coverage of prescription and preventative medicines.
7. Some policies include advertising and a reward up to a certain amount for a lost pet.
8. More expensive plans may include reimbursement for a trip cancellation due to a pet's surgery.
9. At the time of euthanasia, a few companies will provide assistance with burial or cremation fees.
10. Many policies will cover injuries and illnesses for life. This is important when considering that 30-40% of all pet insurance claims are for chronic conditions that last beyond 12 months.
11. Some policies will cover a specified percentage of the cost, while others will cover the total cost up to a specific amount.
12. Not every policy is written to include alternative medicine such as acupuncture or chiropractic treatment.
13. There are often times separate policies for dogs and cats.
14. Insurance for horses is available but usually not through the same companies.
15. For all insurance, the client has to pay the veterinarian and then is reimbursed by the insurance company later. (This is due to the fact that pet insurance is viewed as a type of property insurance.)
16. All insurance companies will accept claims from any licensed veterinarian.
17. Across the board, pre-existing conditions are not covered. Many companies will cover congenital disorders if the disease was not apparent at the time the insurance policy was started.
18. You get what you pay for. Often times, a cheaper policy provides less coverage.
19. There is a monthly fee required for the majority of companies.
20. All pet insurance is not created equally. Read carefully and ask questions!
Click here to see a side-by-side comparison of many insurance companies.
If you ever have questions about pet insurance, always feel free to ask your veterinarian!!
