Puppies are a lot of fun, from spoiling them with toys and treats to joining in on all their “firsts.” But being a puppy owner isn’t all play; they’re also prone to accidents and injuries. As a result, puppy insurance can be a game-changer for first-time and veteran puppy owners looking to manage pet expenses.
There are many pet insurance providers out there, but finding the best plan for your new pup can be a daunting task. To help you, we’ve compiled an overview of the most popular plans available, along with important information you should know as you shop for coverage.
A deductible is the amount that you, as the policyholder, have to pay out of pocket before your pet insurance company begins to reimburse you for eligible costs. Deductibles typically range from $0 to $1,000. Some pet insurance companies set annual limits for reimbursements, while others offer unlimited coverage. The higher the deductible, the lower your premium will be.
Some pet insurance policies include hereditary condition coverage, which reimburses you for the cost of inherited illnesses and conditions that your pet may be prone to developing, such as heart disease, intervertebral disk disease (IVDD) or eye disorders. Some insurers also cover the cost of hereditary condition treatments and tests, such as genetic screening and chromosome testing.
Many dog breeds are prone to certain health conditions, which can be expensive to treat. Some pet insurance policies, such as Fetch by The Dodo and Trupanion, cover hereditary conditions as part of the overall coverage package for no extra cost.
Most pet insurance policies require you to declare any pre-existing illnesses or injuries before the plan goes into effect. If you fail to do so, your claim may be denied or reduced.
While most puppy owners purchase pet insurance to cover emergency expenses, some also use it for routine care, such as core vaccinations and wellness exams. The cheapest puppy plans tend to offer these coverage options as standard features, while more comprehensive pet insurance plans will have an additional cost for these types of coverage.
While it may seem counterintuitive to buy pet insurance for an animal that isn’t yet a full-grown dog, many pet owners purchase pet insurance for its long-term value. The truth is, many pets live well into their senior years, and a pet’s quality of life can be significantly compromised by costly aging-related illnesses like cancer, arthritis and diabetes. Having the right pet insurance can help ensure that your pet’s health needs are covered into their golden years, no matter what happens. puppy insurance