Pet Health Care Insurance

How does pet health care insurance work?

After you have initially paid the costs for your pet’s visit, the insurance company commonly reimburses you for your chosen percentage of out-of-pocket expenses. Pets are covered almost immediately for accidents and injuries, with a short waiting period for expenses incurred from illness. In some cases, such as major surgery, insurance companies will accept an estimate in lieu of proof of payment for advance approval of coverage.

Though the percentage of out-of-pocket costs will vary depending on the plan you choose, most companies offer up to 90 percent coverage for all qualifying conditions, such as:

• Surgeries, diagnostic procedures and hospitalization
• Specialist care
• Medication
• Prescription diets
• Physical and rehabilitative care

Optional riders are also available for services such as acupuncture and behavioral training.

How much does it cost and what does it cover?

Monthly premiums can range from $25-80 per pet, depending on the plan you select and several other factors at the time of enrollment, including your pet’s age, size and breed. Most companies offer several tiers of deductible and co-insurance options, which will also affect premiums.

The type of plan you select will determine the amount and scope of coverage, but most companies will cover up to 90 percent of qualifying services after the plan-specific deductible and office visit fee are paid. Additionally, deductibles usually apply only once per illness or condition, so once a deductible is met, all eligible services will be covered up to your specified percentage no matter how many times the condition reoccurs.

We are finding more and more of our clients are choosing a pet insurance policy to cover emergencies and combining it with a Complete PHP plan for their pet’s preventive wellness for the most coverage at the least cost over the life of their pets.