Your dog is more than just a pet—they’re family. Just like with our health, it’s essential to consider how we’ll manage their medical expenses. Dog health insurance can be a great way to plan for unexpected medical expenses for your dog. Some plans even provide coverage for preventative care.
Understanding the Basics
Dog health insurance is similar to our medical insurance. It helps offset medical expenses, sometimes only for accidents or illness and sometimes for preventative care. Plans vary significantly, but the most popular plans cover accidents, disease, and wellness care.
What impacts cost?
You’ve probably seen various costs if you have shopped for dog health insurance. The following factors directly impact some of these costs:
Breed: Certain breeds have a higher risk for medical issues or are genetically predisposed to certain conditions.
Age: Older dogs are more likely to experience health issues and often have higher premiums.
Location: Areas with higher veterinary costs can increase the premium.
Coverage: Coverage is one of the most significant factors affecting the premium. The more coverage, the higher the premium.
Deductibles and Co-Pays: Similar to human insurance, most plans have a deductible amount and a co-pay. A higher deductible means more out-of-pocket per visit but a lower premium.
How much does dog health insurance cost?
Most dog insurance packages cost between $30 and $70 per month, but basic coverage can be as low as $20 per month. Breed, age, location, coverage, deductibles, and co-pays will directly impact these figures.
Choosing the Right Insurance Plan
As you shop for insurance plans, consider your dog’s health and budget. While a lower monthly premium can be helpful in your budget, it may come with less coverage. This could lead to unexpected, high medical bills from accidents and illness. Conversely, a higher premium might not be doable for your monthly budget.
Here are some ways to look at your plan options:
Compare Carriers & Plans: There are many comparison tools to help you compare each carrier and plan. Ask your veterinarian for a recommendation if you need help figuring out where to start.
Read the Policy: Carefully review the coverage, checking for exclusions, limits, and other items not included.
Reviews: Check reviews and customer ratings. Asking your vet or other pet owners for recommendations is another great way to gauge a company.
Consider Wellness Coverage: Basic coverage will cover accidents and illnesses, but many carriers offer wellness coverage for vaccinations, heartworm medication, basic bloodwork, and wellness exams. This can be ideal for budgeting as it helps spread out these routine expenses.
Check Claim Process: Some companies offer apps that allow you to easily upload invoices for quick reimbursement, while others require the vet office to send documentation. Make sure the process aligns with your needs.
While dog health insurance can be an added expense, it can protect you from unexpected veterinary costs. By choosing a plan that fits your dog’s needs and budget, you can ensure your dog receives the best care possible without straining your finances.
