Insurance is a great option to keep your pet healthy and happy. This insurance can cover unexpected costs such as surgery or emergency care, but it can also be used for routine care like vaccinations.
It's important to weigh your options carefully when choosing a pet insurance policy for your dog. You'll want to choose a plan that fits your budget, is easy to use, and offers good coverage.
These policies are the cheapest and can be used for dogs with injuries such as bite wounds and broken bones. They don't include illness coverage, so these plans are not an option for dogs who are older or have chronic conditions.
For dogs with chronic or severe conditions, you may want to consider a lifetime coverage plan. This type of plan will pay for veterinary treatment you incur throughout your pet's lifetime, provided you renew the coverage each year.
AKC Pet Insurance
American Kennel Club offers pet insurance for both purebred and mixed breed dogs and cats. Their policies cover accidents that occur unexpectedly, hereditary or congenital conditions, other illnesses and new injuries. All claims are processed promptly.
AKC's pet policy is available with a 30 day free trial. This allows you to try the insurance out before purchasing it. Optional add-ons include exam fees and final costs for your pet.
Accident and illness policies cover a wider range of medical costs, including vet bills. An accident-only insurance plan does not. These plans reimburse you up to 80% of eligible medical costs after you meet your annual deductible, and they also offer additional levels of reimbursement for specific elective procedures.
BestBenefit
In order to choose the right pet insurance, you need to know how a company deals with pre-existing conditions. Some plans exclude pre-existing medical conditions. Others impose a waiting period for chronic illnesses that you or a veterinarian may observe before the coverage period of the plan begins.
There are also plans that require a year-long waiting period before they cover any pre-existing condition, even if it is completely cured. It can be difficult to find a policy that covers your dog throughout their life.
The premiums vary a lot, but are usually affordable enough to be worth it. The premiums vary depending on your dog's age and breed.
Average annual cost for pet insurance plans is about $500. The premium can be reduced if you choose a lower coinsurance and deductible rate. It is especially helpful if you have a pet with a history or who is more likely to develop a disease in later life.