What is pet insurance?
Pet insurance policies include deductibles, copayments, and premiums. Unlike human medical insurance, it is a reimbursement model – meaning YOU pay out of pocket up front to your veterinarian, and then the insurance company pays YOU back.
Cost depends on breed, age, veterinary care costs in your area, and your chosen plan.
Is pet insurance the same as a medical plan?
No. The key difference: you can take pet insurance ANYWHERE YOU GO – TO ANY HOSPITAL AND TO ANY STATE. Medical/wellness plans typically cannot.
For example, at 2 A.M. emergency visits when your regular vet is closed, pet insurance coverage follows you.
Is it worth it to have pet insurance?
It depends! If you have significant savings (noting car accident treatment ranges from $1,200 to over $5,000), insurance may be unnecessary.
As a holistic veterinarian, I will not own a pet without insurance, knowing the costs of CT/MRI scans, specialists, and cancer surgery. I never want to refuse care due to cost.
What is the best pet insurance?
It depends! I recommend calling every company you're considering.
Top factors when evaluating:
No annual limits/caps
Some companies have yearly ceilings. My dog cost over $10,000 one year; I only paid about $1,000 with unlimited coverage.
No breed-specific exclusions
Pets shouldn't lose coverage for genetic conditions.
Holistic care coverage
Coverage for alternative, rehabilitative, and complementary treatments.
Fast claim payouts
Important since you pay upfront and wait for reimbursement.
I prefer plans covering accidents and illnesses maximally, accepting basic costs like flea/tick prevention and vaccinations.
Note: Almost all companies exclude pre-existing conditions.
What is super awesome for pet insurance to have?
A "Pre-approval Service" (found with Trupanion) allows submitting procedure estimates and knowing reimbursement amounts within hours, versus waiting weeks for evaluation and payment.
How do I get affordable pet insurance?
Review www.petinsurancereview.com and call companies with prepared questions. Request written policies and examine limitations and exceptions carefully.
Questions About Your Pet's Care?
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