Providing your pet with the best possible care shouldn’t put you out of pocket. That’s why affordable pet insurance can help you avoid significant financial loss from hefty unanticipated veterinary bills. The key is to compare prices and coverage options carefully to find the plan that works best for you and your furry family member.
Most plans include annual limits, which represent the amount your insurer will pay toward your pet’s medical costs per year. This number can vary widely, from $1,000 to $5,000, with higher limits generally costing more in premiums. Some policies also have deductibles, which are your responsibility to pay before the insurer starts paying a claim. Some policies cover routine wellness care, such as yearly exams and vaccinations, while others require you to purchase add-ons for those services.
In addition to comparing the price and annual limit of different pet insurance policies, it’s important to look at other features that can affect your costs, such as waiting periods and whether a company pays veterinarians directly rather than reimbursing you after you pay for vet bills. Some providers also offer supplemental insurance for dental and behavioral treatments. While these add-ons aren’t typically covered by standard accident-and-illness plans, you may be able to find affordable options by purchasing them separately from your provider.
The best affordable pet insurance policies provide comprehensive coverage for most accidents and illnesses, and many also include coverage for some breed-specific conditions, congenital disorders and chronic diseases. They generally have a 14-day waiting period for accidents and a 180-day wait for illness coverage. Some plans also have a maximum coverage amount and may exclude certain conditions, such as cruciate ligament issues.
Some of the most affordable pet insurance companies include alternative therapies in their plans, such as acupuncture and physiotherapy, which aren’t always covered by other insurers. Some companies also allow you to customize your policy by adjusting your reimbursement percentage and deductible, while others let you choose a monthly payment option. Those looking for affordable pet insurance should also consider how long a company has been in business and its customer service reputation. Some companies even offer discounts for active military members, veterans and those with multiple pets. affordable pet insurance