Pet insurance you can trust

Get Enrolled Today!

The pet insurance coverage you actually need

Generous coverage with no surprises Free virtual vet visits for any health and wellness questions Hassle-free reimbursements within days via Venmo or ACH direct deposit Real, human pet parent support Choose any veterinarian or service provider Pets are insured for their entire life

Hablamos español

What coverage should looks like

Cancer

Surgery

IV fluids and medications

Tooth extractions

Blood tests and other diagnostics to uncover illness

Hospitalization

MRI & X-Rays

Exam fees as result of covered accident or illness

Hereditary conditions

Congenital conditions

Allergy treatments

End-of-life expenses

Microchipping

Prescriptions & medications

How Much Does a MRI cost for pets?

The cost of an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) for pets can vary significantly depending on various factors such as the location, the specific veterinary clinic or hospital, the size of the pet, and any additional services required (e.g., anesthesia, contrast agents). On average, pet owners can expect to pay anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000 for an MRI procedure for their pet. However, prices may be higher in certain regions or if specialized imaging or services are needed. It’s essential for pet owners to consult with their veterinarian or a veterinary specialist to get an accurate estimate of the cost based on their pet’s specific needs and circumstances. Additionally, pet insurance may cover a portion of the cost, depending on the policy and coverage.

What is my pet insurance deductible?

Hablamos español

Pet insurance deductibles are a common aspect of pet insurance policies, similar to deductibles in other forms of insurance. Here’s what you need to know about pet insurance deductibles:

Definition: A deductible is the amount of money you are responsible for paying out of pocket before your pet insurance coverage kicks in. For example, if your pet incurs a covered expense, you would pay the deductible first, and then the insurance company would cover the remaining eligible expenses, subject to the policy’s terms and conditions.
Types of Deductibles:
- Annual Deductible: With an annual deductible, you pay the deductible amount once per policy year, regardless of how many claims you make during that year.
- Per-Incident Deductible: A per-incident deductible is applied to each new illness or injury for which you file a claim. If your pet has multiple unrelated health issues in the same policy period, you would pay a separate deductible for each incident.
Amount: Deductibles can vary in amount depending on the specific pet insurance policy and coverage options you select. Common deductible amounts range from $0 to $1,000 or more.
Effect on Premiums: Generally, policies with lower deductibles tend to have higher monthly premiums, while policies with higher deductibles often have lower monthly premiums. Choosing a deductible amount involves balancing the upfront cost (premium) with potential out-of-pocket expenses (deductible).
Choosing a Deductible: When selecting a pet insurance policy, consider your budget, your pet’s health needs, and how much you’re willing to pay out of pocket in the event of a claim. Some policies offer flexibility in choosing deductible amounts to tailor coverage to your preferences.
Accumulation: Some policies have deductible accumulation features, where the deductible resets either annually or per incident. This means you would need to meet the deductible again for subsequent claims within the same policy period.
Family or Multi-Pet Deductibles: Some pet insurance providers offer family or multi-pet deductibles, where the deductible amount applies to all pets covered under the same policy.

It’s essential to carefully review the deductible structure and terms of any pet insurance policy you’re considering to understand how deductibles will impact your coverage and out-of-pocket expenses. Additionally, consider factors such as coverage limits, reimbursement rates, and exclusions when evaluating pet insurance options.

What pet insurance plans may not cover

Hablamos español

Pet insurance plans typically come with a list of exclusions or limitations, which outline specific conditions, treatments, or circumstances that are not covered by the policy. While the exact exclusions can vary depending on the insurance provider and the specific policy, here are some common items that may not be covered by pet insurance plans:

Pre-Existing Conditions: Most pet insurance plans do not cover pre-existing conditions, which are health issues that your pet had before the policy’s effective date or during any waiting period. This includes conditions that were diagnosed, treated, or showed symptoms before coverage began.
Routine and Preventive Care: Basic or standard pet insurance plans typically do not cover routine or preventive care, such as vaccinations, annual exams, flea and tick prevention, spaying/neutering, and dental cleanings. Some insurers offer optional wellness plans or riders that provide coverage for these services at an additional cost. However, this can be added to the coverage as add on to the policy
Breeding-related Expenses: Expenses related to breeding, pregnancy, whelping, and the care of newborn puppies or kittens are generally not covered by pet insurance.
Cosmetic Procedures: Cosmetic procedures, such as tail docking, ear cropping, and elective procedures performed for aesthetic purposes, are usually excluded from coverage.
Experimental or Investigational Treatments: Pet insurance plans typically do not cover experimental or investigational treatments, procedures, drugs, or therapies that are not widely accepted or proven to be effective.
Behavioral Training and Therapy: Costs associated with behavioral training, obedience classes, or therapy for behavioral problems are typically not covered by pet insurance plans.
Hereditary and Congenital Conditions: While some pet insurance plans may cover hereditary or congenital conditions, others may have limitations or exclusions for specific breeds or conditions that are deemed hereditary or congenital.
Elective Procedures: Elective procedures or treatments that are not medically necessary or are performed for owner convenience are often excluded from coverage.
Certain Medications: Some pet insurance plans may have limitations on coverage for certain medications, including over-the-counter medications, supplements, or prescription drugs used for non-covered conditions.

It’s essential for pet owners to carefully review the terms, conditions, and exclusions of any pet insurance policy before purchasing coverage to understand what is and isn’t covered. Additionally, consider factors such as deductibles, reimbursement rates, annual limits, and waiting periods when evaluating pet insurance options.

Paying for Pet Expenses: Pet Insurance vs. a Savings Account

Hablamos español

Deciding how to pay for pet expenses—whether through pet insurance or a savings account—depends on various factors, including your financial situation, your pet’s health needs, and your preferences. Here’s a comparison between the two options:

Pet Insurance:
- Pros:
  - Financial Protection: Pet insurance provides coverage for unexpected veterinary expenses, including accidents, illnesses, and emergencies, reducing the financial burden on pet owners.
  - Predictable Costs: With a fixed monthly premium, pet insurance offers predictable costs, allowing pet owners to budget for their pet’s healthcare expenses more easily.
  - Comprehensive Coverage: Depending on the plan, pet insurance may cover a wide range of veterinary services, including diagnostics, treatments, surgeries, medications, and sometimes preventive care.
- Cons:
  - Premium Costs: Pet insurance requires monthly or annual premium payments, which can vary based on factors such as the pet’s age, breed, location, and coverage level.
  - Deductibles and Co-pays: Some plans have deductibles and co-pays, meaning pet owners are responsible for a portion of the veterinary expenses, in addition to the premiums.
  - Coverage Limitations: Pet insurance plans often have exclusions, waiting periods, and limitations on coverage, including pre-existing conditions, hereditary conditions, and certain treatments.
Savings Account:
- Pros:
  - Flexibility: A savings account provides flexibility in managing funds and covering pet expenses, without being tied to specific insurance coverage limitations or exclusions.
  - No Premiums: Unlike pet insurance, there are no monthly or annual premiums associated with a savings account, allowing pet owners to save money without ongoing costs.
  - Control: With a savings account, pet owners have control over how much they save and how they use the funds, with no restrictions on coverage or treatment options.
- Cons:
  - Limited Financial Protection: A savings account may not provide sufficient funds to cover expensive veterinary treatments or emergencies, leaving pet owners responsible for the full cost of care.
  - Risk of Insufficient Funds: Depending on the amount saved, a savings account may not be enough to cover unexpected or high-cost veterinary expenses, especially for serious illnesses or surgeries.
  - Discipline: Maintaining a savings account requires discipline and regular contributions to ensure funds are available when needed for pet healthcare expenses.

Ultimately, the decision between pet insurance and a savings account depends on your individual circumstances, risk tolerance, and preferences. Some pet owners may prefer the financial protection and peace of mind offered by pet insurance, while others may opt for a savings account as a more flexible and cost-effective option. Consider evaluating your pet’s healthcare needs, your budget, and the coverage options available to determine the best approach for managing pet expenses. Consulting with a financial advisor or veterinarian can also provide valuable insights into making this decision.