Home | For Dogs | For Cats | Compare Plans | Claim Tips | FAQs | Pet Health Info | Pet Meds | Blog | Get Quote

Preferred Provider

Pet Health

Your questions to pet insurance plans are answered here

What is a pet health insurance plan?

Pet insurance plans cover your pet's medical expenses due to illness or accidental injury. Services covered can often include: x-rays, prescribed medications, surgeries, hospitalization, ultra-sounds, MRI/CAT scans, and chemotherapy. If the accident or illness is severe the cost can be substantial.

Some pet insurance plans also cover routine wellness visits to the vet., such as physicals, vaccinations, spaying, and flea control/heartworm, via supplemental policies or riders. Though pets of any age usually can be covered, insurance premiums are often higher for older pets. Also, some breeds cost more to insure because of common severe illnesses that befall them.

How does Pet Insurance Plans Differ?

Pet insurance plans differ by insurance type (accident only, wellness only or comprehensive coverage). Most plans have deductibles and coverage maximums. Some pet insurance providers strive to be the low cost leader while others try specializing in accident or wellness coverage.

How much does pet insurance typically cost?

Monthly premiums for a pet nsurance policy can typically cost between $10 to $80 and higher. Treatment deductibles are usually from $50 to $500. Policyholders generally pay their vet bill and then file claims for reimbursement with their pet insurance provider.

Why buy pet insurance? What are the benefits?

Emergency veterinary medical services and treatment of a major illness can cost thousands of dollars. Pet health insurance can help allay major out-of-pocket veterinary expenses when an accident or illness occurs. Some pet health insurance plans also cover routine care, as well as boarding fees, and wellness visits to the vet. Finally, pet insurance is very affordable relative to expensive emergency veterinary procedures.

Is pet insurance available for all kinds of animals?

Yes. Pet health care insurance is available for dogs, cats, birds, horses, and even exotic animals, such as ferrets, reptiles, and chinchillas, although many insurance companies offer only dog and cat insurance. Exotic animals may cost more to insure than common pets.

Are discounts available for pet insurance?

If you insure multiple pets with the same provider, you will earn a multi-pet discount (5 to 10 percent). Discounts of 10 percent also are sometimes available for registered medical services pets, such as guide dogs or therapy pets. Additionally, some providers discount policies (5 percent) for animals that have been micro-chipped and registered in the 24PetWatch database, so that they can be located if lost.

What pet insurance policy limitations should I be aware of?

Many providers do not insure animals that have pre-existing health problems (always check with provider) or hereditary conditions. If your pet, for example, has Adult Onset Demodex, it might not be eligible for illness coverage. Some breeds, particularly small ones (Basset Hounds, Bulldogs), also have common health issues that can increase policy premiums or prevent coverage. Also, cosmetic procedures, special diets, behavioral problems, and breeding are generally not covered by pet health care insurance.

Who is the best pet insurance company?

The best pet health insurance company for you will depend on, of course, you and your pet's specific needs. The type, age and breed of your pet in addition to your financial situation are all major factors to what insurance company you choose.

We have found Embrace Pet Insurance in the US and Petsecure in Canada to be excellent providers of pet insurance plans.