What Does Pet Insurance Cover and Not Cover- Thinking about getting pet insurance for your beloved companion? It’s a smart move to safeguard both your pet and your finances. However, it’s crucial to understand that not all pet insurance plans offer the same coverage. Some policies may only protect against accidents and serious injuries, while others go beyond that, encompassing preventive care, wellness check-ups, and even procedures like spaying and neutering.
If you’re unsure about where to begin, reach out to a knowledgeable pet insurance expert today. They can provide you with a complimentary price quote and guide you through the process, ensuring you have a clear understanding of what you can expect from your policy.
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What Does Pet Insurance Cover?
Let’s dive into the coverage you can typically expect from pet insurance.
Accidents, Injuries, and Chronic Conditions
Most pet insurance plans provide coverage for accidents, injuries, as well as cancer and chronic conditions. Here’s a rundown of what basic policies usually cover:
- Surgery, including procedures like spaying and neutering.
- X-rays and diagnostic testing for accurate diagnoses.
- Prescription medications to treat various conditions.
- Cancer treatments to combat the disease.
- Hospital stays for comprehensive care.
- Emergency care to address sudden medical needs.
- Conditions like hip dysplasia, arthritis, diabetes, and parasites.
- Treatment for broken bones and ligament tears.
Keep in mind that coverage may vary among providers, so it’s essential to compare options if you require specific treatments. Check out the table below to explore different plans available to you.
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What Does Pet Not Insurance Cover?
Let’s shed light on what pet insurance typically doesn’t cover, especially in basic plans.
Routine Check-ups and Preventative Care
Basic pet insurance plans generally exclude coverage for routine check-ups, vaccinations, heartworm medications, and dental cleanings. However, it’s worth noting that each provider may have variations in their coverage. Here’s a list of items usually not covered:
- Vaccinations to protect against diseases.
- Spaying and neutering procedures.
- Flea and heartworm preventatives.
- Dental cleanings and oral care.
- Pre-existing conditions existing prior to coverage.
- Breeding costs and related treatments.
- Cosmetic procedures like ear cropping or tail docking.
- Wellness check-ups and general grooming.
- Prescription food for specific dietary needs.
If you require coverage for any of these items, many providers offer upgraded plans or add-on coverage for an additional fee. Take a step further and explore your options now.
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Exclusions in Pet Insurance
Pre-existing conditions pose challenges when it comes to pet insurance coverage. Most policies exclude conditions, injuries, or diseases that existed prior to the coverage start date. However, some providers review your pet’s medical history for only the past 12 months. If a condition isn’t documented during that time, you may still qualify for coverage. Additionally, if a pre-existing condition clears up completely for at least a year, showing no symptoms or requiring treatment, you might also become eligible for coverage.
Certain providers may also exclude coverage for injuries resulting from fighting or racing, as well as issues stemming from general neglect.
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Understanding Pet Insurance Costs
The cost of pet insurance varies based on several factors such as the provider, type of animal, age, location, and more.
Let’s take a look at average costs for pet insurance covering a 6-year-old medium, mixed-breed dog in Houston:
- Fetch by The Dodo: $56.24 per month.
- Lemonade: $33.60 per month.
- Spot: $58.21 per month.
Remember, coverage costs depend on factors like the policy’s annual limit, reimbursement rate, and deductible. The plans mentioned above include an annual limit of $10,000, 80% reimbursement rate, and a deductible ranging from $250 to $300.
Most pet insurance providers offer free online quotes, allowing you to compare prices and find the best fit for your needs. If you have multiple pets, you may also qualify for a small discount when insuring them together.
Now that you have a better understanding of pet insurance coverage, take the next step to protect your furry friends.
