There are three primary kinds of pet insurance: comprehensive (which covers both accidents and illnesses), accident-only, and basic wellness care. Over 4.8 million pets are insured under these plans, helping to cover vet bills and ensuring your furry buddy stays healthy and happy.
There are various kinds of pet insurance out there, each offering different levels of coverage, so make sure to choose the one that fits your needs the best. Here are some Types of Pet Insurance…
Comprehensive Coverage
Comprehensive pet insurance offers the widest range of coverage for your furry friend, often referred to as accident and illness coverage. If your pet gets hurt or falls ill, this insurance can help ease the financial strain of their complete care.
For dogs, some of the most common health issues include urgent problems like ear infections, bladder infections, vomiting, and diarrhea. Chronic issues that pop up often are diabetes, allergies, kidney disease, and arthritis.
Most insurance plans will only cover chronic conditions if you have the policy in place before your pet is diagnosed. Some plans might even exclude serious conditions like cancer. Plus, even if a condition is covered now, some providers might not renew coverage for it later, labeling it as a pre-existing condition. So, it’s a good idea to ask questions before you commit.
Accident-Only Coverage
Accident-only coverage doesn’t cover illnesses. Vet expenses can pile up fast if your pet gets hurt. If your furry friend can’t qualify for a full pet insurance plan because of their age or health issues, or if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, an accident-only policy could be a solid choice.
Pet Wellness and Health Maintenance Coverage
Wellness and preventive care coverage usually comes as an extra option (or “rider”) to the two main types of insurance mentioned earlier. It’s not really a traditional insurance product; instead, it’s a plan that pays you a set amount for regular checkups and preventive services.
In 2021, the average expense for routine vet visits was around $225 for dogs and $160 for cats. To ease these costs, many pet owners choose to get wellness and preventive care coverage.
Other Pet Coverage Options
You might have the option to choose additional pet coverage add-ons for:
- Chronic conditions such as cancer, diabetes, hip dysplasia
- Breeding
- Boarding and kenneling
- Pre-existing conditions
- Prescription food
- Dental care
- Hereditary/chronic/conditional conditions
- Senior pets
- Behavioral health
- End-of-life care
- Physical therapy
Conclusion
Pet insurance can really ease the burden of surprise vet bills. If you’re on the hunt for coverage, think about which of the three main types of pet insurance suits your needs best. And don’t forget, not all plans are the same, so it’s super important to check the details before you commit.