If you're looking to purchase pet insurance, it's important that you understand what's covered. Most plans will only cover unavoidable illnesses or accidents. They don't cover pre-existing or preventative care. A plan with wellness benefits will provide you the most comprehensive coverage.
Comprehensive coverage
Comprehensive pet insurance provides coverage for a variety of medical expenses, including vaccinations and annual wellness checks as well as long-term illnesses and surgeries. Prescription medicines, eye and ear drops, and antibiotics are all covered. Some policies also provide coverage for pre-existing conditions. It is important you know the details of your insurance policy, as well as which options are best for you and your pet.
Comprehensive pet insurance covers a wide range of conditions, including hereditary illnesses and diseases. This insurance also covers ongoing care as well as diagnostic and treatment tests. For instance, dental care is covered up to a maximum of $1,000/year, and it also covers treatment for genetic disorders and other illnesses. Additionally, once a pet is covered under an insurance plan, the coverage continues with renewal.
Exclusions for pre-existing conditions
It's crucial to be informed about what's covered and not covered when purchasing pet insurance for your dogs. Pre-existing conditions can be excluded from coverage. These could include chronic or degenerative diseases. A dog with chronic diarrhea might be excluded for 12 months.
Most pet insurance policies do not cover pre-existing conditions, although there are some exceptions. Some plans cover common conditions and illnesses that are not considered "pre-existing." Likewise, many companies cover genetic or hereditary conditions. These policies are specific to the insurance company.
Co-insurance excess
Your pet's age, health status and other factors may require you to pay an extra amount as part of your pet insurance policy. Some insurance companies require you to pay this amount, while others allow it. You should carefully read the policy documents to find out if there are any coinsurance clauses. It is possible to save money by purchasing a policy that does not include compulsory co-insurance.
Consider how much excess each policy will cost when comparing policies. Some policies have a predetermined excess amount, while others have adjustable amounts. Consider where you live as well as the age of your pet.
Annual deductible
Annual deductible pet plans are great for budgeting. They are also flexible, as you only have the deductible to pay once per policy year. This means you can take your pet to the vet as many times as you need to. You don't have pay high vet bills each time your pet goes to the doctor.
Pet insurance also offers a per-incident option. This deductible applies only if your pet goes to the veterinarian. Each new incident counts individually. Per-incident deductibles reset with each incident, rather than an annual deductible. You may need to pay more per year if your pet suffers from multiple ailments or injuries.