If you're buying a pet insurance plan, it's important to understand what is covered and what is not. Most plans focus on accidents and unexpected illnesses. They don't cover pre-existing or preventative care. In order to get the most comprehensive coverage, you should purchase a plan with wellness benefits.
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. All medications, including prescription medicine, eye and ear drops, as well antibiotics, are covered. Some policies offer coverage for pre-existing medical 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. The policy also includes ongoing care, diagnostic tests, and treatment. For example, dental care is covered up until a maximum $1,000/year. It also covers treatment for genetic diseases and other illnesses. Additionally, once a pet is covered under an insurance plan, the coverage continues with renewal.
Pre-existing conditions excluded
When you are buying pet insurance for your dog it is essential to know what is covered. You may not be covered for certain pre-existing medical conditions. These are chronic and degenerative conditions. 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. Some plans cover common conditions and illnesses that are not considered "pre-existing." Many companies also provide coverage for genetic and/or hereditary conditions. These policies will be specific to the insurer.
Co-insurance excess
You may have to pay an excess depending on the age and health of your pet. Some insurers require it, while others do not. Be sure to read your policy documents for any co-insurance clauses. It may be cheaper to buy a pet insurance policy that does not require compulsory co-insurance.
When comparing policies, make sure you consider how much the excess will be for each condition. Some policies have an excess amount that is fixed, while others can be adjusted. You should also consider where you live, and how old your pet.
Annual deductible
Annual deductible pet insurance plans can be a great way to budget and they are also flexible because you only have one policy year to meet your deductible. This means that you can take your pet as many times to the vet as you like. You won't be charged high fees every time your pet visits the vet.
An option for pet insurance is a per event deductible. This deductible is only applicable when your pet visits the veterinarian. Each new incident counts separately. Per-incident deductibles reset with every incident, and are not subject to annual deductibles. If your pet is ill or injured, a per-incident deductible will be higher than an annual one.