It's crucial to be clear about what's covered and not when purchasing pet insurance. The majority of pet insurance policies cover unavoidable injuries and illnesses. However, they don't cover preventative care or pre-existing conditions. For the best coverage, consider purchasing a policy with wellness benefits.
Comprehensive coverage
Comprehensive coverage includes all medical expenses for your pet. This includes vaccinations, annual wellness exams, long-term illness, and surgery. All prescription medicines, eye, ear, and antibiotics are covered. Some policies provide coverage for preexisting conditions. It is important that you understand the limits of your policy and what options are available for your pet.
Comprehensive pet insurance covers all types of illnesses, from hereditary to chronic. This insurance also covers ongoing care as well as diagnostic and treatment tests. It covers dental care up to $1,000/year and also covers genetic disorders and other illnesses. The coverage is renewed automatically once the pet has been covered by an insurance plan.
Exclusion of pre-existing conditions
It is important to understand what coverage is available for your dog when you purchase pet insurance. Some pre-existing conditions might be excluded from coverage. These conditions can include degenerative or chronic diseases. Your dog might be exempted from coverage for twelve months if it has severe diarrhea.
Many pet insurance policies do NOT cover pre-existing condition, but there are exceptions. Certain plans will cover conditions and illnesses that are "pre-existing" but not all. Likewise, many companies cover genetic or hereditary conditions. These policies will differ from one insurer to another.
Co-insurance excess
You may have to pay an excess depending on the age and health of your pet. Some insurers require that you do this. Others don't. Make sure to check your policy for any coinsurance clauses. It might be cheaper to purchase pet insurance policies that do not require compulsory coinsurance.
Compare policies to determine how much excess you will need for each condition. Some policies have a set excess amount, but some have adjustable amounts. It is also important to think about where you live and what age your pet is.
Annual deductible
An annual deductible pet insurance plan is great for budgeting. You only need to pay the deductible once per policy year. This means your pet can go to the vet as often as they need. You don't have pay high vet bills each time your pet goes to the doctor.
You can also choose to have a per-incident policy with pet insurance. This deductible applies only when you take your pet to the veterinarian. Each new incident counts as a separate incident. Per-incident, unlike annual deductibles. You may need to pay more per year if your pet suffers from multiple ailments or injuries.