Pet Health Insurance, Is it Health Assurance?

These days most people can hardly afford their own health insurance – so it begs the question are you really going to insure your pet? Much like today’s health care crisis there are misconceptions, misinformation and preconceived notions when it comes to health insurance for your pet. Most pet owners don’t have it or think they can’t afford it, very much like our own health care. I have it for our dog and it's worked out pretty well for us.

Here’s the deal in a nutshell. If you get a new dog, relatively young you may think I don’t need it. But actually that is the best time to buy it. Like all insurance it is cheaper then and they have no pre-existing conditions to preclude. The other thing is there are a whole slew of shots, spay/neuter, that is mostly covered by the insurance. At least on my insurance it is. We have VPI, but there are plenty of good plans out there. I do like the ease of which I can submit my claims, I just fax it over and I’m done. It does take a long time usually 2 months for them to pay me back. But I just keep a copy of the claim on my bulletin board so I don’t forget. The other thing I like is that I can take him to any doctor I choose, it’s not like an HMO where you have to go to a provider. Having the right policy could make the difference in a life-and-death decision. If you enroll your pet at a young age, it’s possible to have coverage that lasts your pet’s entire life.


My plan has covered most everything I’ve submitted. Even when Sam got stung by a bee, they paid a portion of the emergency vet bill – not a huge amount, mind you, but I was happy they paid something.


If you decide to look into it be thorough and read the fine print. Most importantly go with a company that’s been around and appears to be staying around. Also, talk to your veterinarian. Many of them offer packages and plans of their own that are cost effective. Look at pet stores for offers on vaccines, basic well care, etc. Pet events and expos also offer these things. For injury and illness, a health plan is a very good idea .

Is the insurance company pet friendly, pet experienced – do they have trained staff? This is important I think, because I want to do business with people who share my pet philosophy. I want to know I have a useful resource.
What is the rate structure and/or guarantee? I want to be sure I won’t get a rate increase or be dropped for using the insurance.

Are benefits renewable? Some companies will not exclude covered conditions that were treated during your policy term. policies have benefit allowances that renew with each new incident. . any companies severely limit what conditions they cover or how much they will reimburse. First example: One major company won’t cover any condition it deems genetic or congenital in nature. Second example: Another company will pay for a lifelong condition the year it is diagnosed, but excludes it the following years. Third example: Another company another limits the payment per illness to only $500. READ THE FINE PRINT
How are reimbursements structured? Know what is and isn’t covered and at what percentage.
Does the company specify coverage exclusion – what isn’t covered?
Does the company provide broad coverage? Be aware of “extra” coverage that other pet health insurance providers may require you to buy.
Are you limited to a veterinary network or required to pre-certify? Most policies let you take your animal where you choose – but make sure.

Overall, I take comfort knowing that I have coverage for my dog should something serious happen to him and also for all the little incidental expenses that come along. I’ve done the math and for me pet health insurance is health assurance.