How to Choose the Best Pet Insurance for Your Pet

What to Look for in a Pet Insurance Plan

1. Coverage Options

Different policies cover different needs. Choose one that fits your pet’s lifestyle and health risks:

• Accident & Illness Coverage – Covers injuries, infections, and major diseases.

• Preventive & Wellness Plans – Covers vaccinations, dental cleanings, and routine care.

• Chronic & Hereditary Conditions – Ideal for breeds prone to genetic disorders.

2. Reimbursement & Deductibles

Pet insurance operates on a reimbursement basis. Key factors include:

• Reimbursement Rates – Typically 70%, 80%, or 90% of eligible costs.

• Deductibles – Annual or per-condition deductibles affect how much you pay before insurance kicks in.

3. Policy Limits

• Annual Limit – Maximum amount paid per year.

• Lifetime Limit – Total payout for your pet’s lifetime.

• Per-Condition Limit – Caps on how much can be claimed for a single illness or injury.

4. Waiting Periods & Exclusions

Most insurers impose waiting periods before coverage starts. Check for:

• Accident Waiting Periods (2-5 days)

• Illness Waiting Periods (14 days or more)

• Pre-Existing Conditions – Usually excluded from coverage.

5. Cost vs. Value

• Premiums depend on your pet’s breed, age, and location.

• Higher deductibles reduce monthly costs but increase out-of-pocket expenses when filing a claim.

• Some insurers offer multi-pet discounts or special rates for younger pets.

6. Customer Service & Claims Process

• Choose a provider with fast claim approvals and direct vet payment options.

• Check customer reviews to ensure reliable service.

Questions to Consider When Selecting Pet Medical Insurance

General

1. What are the waiting periods when you enroll? Are they longer for orthopedic, hereditary, or congenital conditions?

2. How does the deductible work? Per condition, per year, per body part, or per condition and per year?

3. How flexible are your deductible options? Are you given specific amounts, or can you adjust to best fit your budget? Can you change the deductible without affecting coverage?

4. Can a previously covered condition become preexisting upon policy renewal or if you change the limit or the deductible?

5. Are there penalties for making changes to your policy?

6. Are premium increases on a predetermined schedule?

7. Are there additional fees to pay your premium monthly?

8. Is there a minimum or maximum age for coverage?

Coverage

1. Are there exclusions or limitations by breed?

2. Is there one simple plan or multiple plans with varying coverage limits? What are the policy limits for each plan offered? Are they per year, per condition, for the life of the pet?

3. Are hereditary and congenital conditions covered? If so, are there limits on coverage?

4. Does coverage change when visiting a specialist or emergency hospital?

5. Is dental coverage included? Does it include disease or just accidents?

6. Are all prescription drugs, supplements, and nutraceuticals covered? How about prescription food?

7. Is there a coverage option for rehab or alternative therapies? What are the limits?

8. Is wellness care (vaccines, flea, and heartworm prevention) an option or mandatory with the policy? Are wellness treatments dictated by a benefit schedule or can your veterinarian determine proper care? Are there limits?

9. Does coverage change if enrolling an adult or senior pet?

Claims

1. Does the provider offer direct payments to veterinary hospitals at checkout?

2. If there are no direct payment options, what is the average time to receive reimbursements?

3. Does the provider offer pre-approval to ensure coverage?

4. What is needed to send in a claim? How long does it take to process?

5. What are the customer service hours? Can you reach a representative after hours or during holidays if a condition is life threatening.

Top Pet Insurance Providers

Below are some of the best pet insurance providers, offering customizable coverage and trusted service:

1. Trupanion – Visit Website

• No payout limits, covers 90% of veterinary costs.

• Direct payments to veterinarians—no waiting for reimbursement.

2. Healthy Paws – Visit Website

• Unlimited lifetime benefits with fast claim processing.

• Covers hospital stays, diagnostics, and alternative therapies.

3. Embrace – Visit Website

• Customizable coverage & alternative therapy options.

• Routine wellness add-ons available.

4. Nationwide Pet Insurance – Visit Website

• Offers exotic pet coverage

• Covers chronic conditions, hereditary diseases, and wellness plans.

5. ASPCA Pet Health Insurance – Visit Website

• Flexible reimbursement rates & no breed exclusions.

• Covers congenital conditions and behavioral therapy.

6. Figo Pet Insurance – Visit Website

• 100% reimbursement option available.

• Comes with a mobile pet health management app.

7. Pets Best – Visit Website

• Affordable plans covering rehabilitation, chiropractic care, and medications.

• Optional wellness plans for preventive care.

8. Spot Pet Insurance – Visit Website

• No upper age limits—ideal for senior pets.

• Covers exam fees, diagnostics, and multi-pet discounts.

9. Pumpkin Pet Insurance – Visit Website

• No breed restrictions, covers dental illness & behavioral therapy.

• Offers preventive care add-ons.

10. AKC Pet Insurance – Visit Website

• Covers hereditary conditions and alternative therapies.

• Available in all 50 states.

How to Select the Best Pet Insurance Plan

• Assess your pet’s health risks – Certain breeds are prone to specific conditions.

• Choose coverage that matches your needs – Accident-only plans vs. comprehensive coverage.

• Check for exclusions & waiting periods – Ensure transparency in coverage.

• Compare costs & reviews – Balance affordability with reliable claims service.

• Consult your veterinarian – Get professional guidance based on your pet’s health.

• Need Help Choosing the Right Plan?

At Canton Animal Hospital, we know that every pet is unique. We can help you understand your pet’s specific health needs and recommend insurance options that provide the best coverage for their long-term well-being.