What Does Dog Insurance Actually Cover?

Here is everything you need to know about what dog insurance actually covers.

07:57 28 March 2022

If you are a passionate dog owner, then chances are you have at least considered getting dog insurance. Similar to what us humans have when it comes to health care, dog insurance basically aims to do the same thing—but for your furry friend.

 

In fact, many people are discovering just how in-depth dog insurance can go if you sign up with a quality provider. From helping ensure you can get the standard coverage that includes medical emergencies to routine checkups, the whole list of vaccinations and even alternative therapies, your dog can easily live their best life with dog insurance.

 

But we also understand that it can feel a bit overwhelming and intimidating to sign up for dog insurance, especially when there are so many factors to consider and a range of options to choose from. That is why we have created the ultimate guide to lay out what dog insurance actually covers.

 

Once you know the essentials, it will be easier to determine what makes the most sense for your dog and your own financial situation.

 

Here is everything you need to know about what dog insurance actually covers.

 

The Basic Coverage

When you sign up for dog insurance, you will be getting at least the basic coverage regardless of what plan you go for. In most scenarios, this means that your dog insurance will kick in when there are unexpected illnesses or accidents and surgery, medical care or tests are required.

 

The very best coverage plans will reimburse you up to 90% of the veterinarian bill you get given. But the details will really depend on who your provider is and what is written out in your policy. That is why it is so important to do your due diligence before committing—so you know all the details that your specific insurance plan covers.

 

The Various Types of Coverage

So while all dog insurance covers a set standard of unexpected scenarios that can happen to your dog’s wellbeing, there are usually three different types of detailed coverage that you can also consider.

 

The first is accidents only. This means if something out of the blue happens to your dog, whether they get hit by a car or attacked by another animal, this insurance will help cover the costs of any medical attention and care they need.

 

The second type includes both accident and illness. This means that as your dog ages and becomes more prone to illness, dog insurance will equally help cover and support any and all of the costs associated with their medical care.

 

Finally, you can get coverage that includes accidents, illnesses and wellness. When it comes to wellness, this means that any proactive health care you want to give your dog—from vaccines to alternative therapies—will also be covered. Being proactive about your dog’s health will help them stay healthier for longer and also end up saving you money in the long run too.

 

How Your Coverage Works

Each pet insurance provider will likely have a different process when it comes to how you can get insurance to support the financials. The best providers will have a reimbursement plan set up, which differs from the copayments that occur during your own human health insurance.

 

This means that you will likely want to pay for the medical bill on your credit card and then pay that off once you get the reimbursement from your insurance provider.

 

What to Know About Pre-Existing Conditions + Coverage

Another thing to keep in mind when it comes to what your dog insurance will actually cover is the insurance provider’s policy around pre-existing conditions. The best providers will likely take your pet on and support coverage regardless of their age or pre-existing conditions. But it is important to remember that not all have this policy. So make sure to do your research around pet insurance and pre-existing conditions, so you can really make the right choice for yourself.

 

This will also mean that you will likely have a waiting period for the dog insurance before it actually kicks in. Standard is around seven days to two weeks. This is their way of ensuring that you are not trying to get coverage for pre-existing conditions you may have been trying to keep secret.

 

Dog Insurance is Worth It

If you are the owner of an adorable fluffy dog, then you will absolutely benefit from having dog insurance. Not only will the coverage ensure that you can get your dog the health care they need no matter what, but it will equally protect you from getting stuck with really expensive veterinarian bills that could end up putting you into debt.

 

While dogs are priceless, the realities of being mindful of money—especially with the current state of the world—is key. So not only will you get great coverage for your dog, but also peace of mind.