When you are buying pet insurance, it is crucial to understand the details. Most plans will only cover unavoidable illnesses or accidents. But they do not cover preventative or pre-existing care. A plan with wellness benefits will provide you the most comprehensive coverage.
Comprehensive coverage
Pet insurance offers comprehensive coverage that covers everything your pet needs, including annual wellness exams and vaccinations as well long-term illness or surgery. Prescription medicines, eye and ear drops, and antibiotics are all covered. Some policies also provide coverage for pre-existing conditions. It is important that you understand the limits of your policy and what options are available for your pet.
Comprehensive pet insurance covers a range of ailments, including hereditary diseases and illnesses. It also covers ongoing care and diagnostic tests. For example, dental care is covered up until a maximum $1,000/year. It also covers treatment for genetic diseases and other illnesses. Additional, coverage for pets that are already covered under insurance continues even after they have been renewed.
Excludes pre-existing medical conditions
It is important to understand what coverage is available for your dog when you purchase pet insurance. You may not be covered for certain pre-existing medical conditions. These include chronic and degenerative illnesses. If your dog suffers from chronic diarrhea, for example, you might be unable to provide coverage for 12 months.
Many pet insurance policies do NOT cover pre-existing condition, but there are exceptions. Some plans cover common diseases and conditions that are considered "preexisting". Many companies also cover genetic and hereditary conditions. These policies will be specific to the insurer.
Co-insurance excess
You may be required to pay an additional amount depending on the health status and age of your pet. Some insurers require that you do this. Others don't. You should carefully read the policy documents to find out if there are any coinsurance clauses. A pet insurance policy without compulsory co-insurance may be more affordable.
Consider how much excess each policy will cost when comparing policies. 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
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 that you can take your pet as many times to the vet as you like. This way you won't have to worry about incurring high bills every time your pet needs a visit to the vet.
A per-incident deductible is also an option for pet insurance. This deductible only applies when your pet is taken to the vet. Each new incident counts individually. Unlike annual deductibles, per-incident deductibles reset with every new incident. You may need to pay more per year if your pet suffers from multiple ailments or injuries.