Pet Insurance: Coverage, Costs, Exclusions, and How Claims Work

How pet insurance works

Unlike human health insurance, pet insurance is a reimbursement product. You take your pet to any licensed vet, pay the bill, and submit the invoice. The carrier reimburses a percentage of the covered amount, usually 70% to 90%, after you meet an annual deductible. There are no networks and no referrals.

What is covered

Accident and illness plans cover the expensive, unexpected events: injuries, infections, cancer, diabetes, allergies, digestive problems, and hereditary conditions such as hip dysplasia. Diagnostics, surgery, hospitalization, and prescriptions are typically included. Wellness add ons cover routine exams, vaccines, and dental cleanings for a flat annual amount.

What is excluded

Pre existing conditions are excluded on every plan. If your dog had a knee problem before you enrolled, that knee is not covered. Some carriers will cover a condition that has been cured and symptom free for a defined period. Most plans also exclude breeding, cosmetic procedures, and anything during the waiting period, which is usually a few days for accidents and about two weeks for illness.

What it costs

Premiums depend on the pet's species, breed, age, your ZIP code, and the deductible and reimbursement level you choose. In Miami, a young mixed breed dog on an accident and illness plan often runs $30 to $60 a month. Large purebred dogs and older pets cost more. Cats are generally cheaper than dogs.

Picking a plan

Enroll while the pet is young and healthy, before anything becomes pre existing. Choose an annual limit high enough to cover a serious event; $10,000 or unlimited is worth the extra premium. Check whether the plan covers exam fees and hereditary conditions, since some do not. And read how the deductible works: per year is better than per condition.

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