From what pet insurance is to filing a claim and everything in between

There’s a lot to think about when it comes to choosing a pet insurance policy and with so many insurers offering plans that suit a growing range of budgets and needs, it can often be overwhelming to find the right policy for you and the furry members of your family!

When it comes to choosing your plan, it’s important that you know what’s covered and what’s not.

In doing some research into pet insurers in South Africa I came across one insurer that offers their policyholders a simple guide to pet insurance - Oneplan. Given this neat and uncomplicated document, I asked the guys over at Oneplan Insurance for some information regarding FAQ in pet insurance - which is where this information comes from…

What is pet insurance?

Like health insurance for pets, pet insurance helps to cover the costs of vet bills when your pet is injured or ill. Some pet insurers also offer routine care and vet visit cover, Oneplan is one of these insurers.

Is pet insurance really worth it?

It most certainly is. The medical costs associated with owning a pet are pretty scary!  Did you know that the first 6 months of owning a dog or cat can cost you between R5000 and R10 000 - this includes vaccinations, food and deworming. A check-up at the vet can cost roughly R1000 with blood tests and a physical exam (more or less) and if surgery is required this could cost tens of thousands.

You cannot predict when something might happen to your pet, and without the financial support from an insurer, you will be left to foot this bill, or worse, you might have to opt for euthanisation in an expensive situation where you cannot afford surgery.

How much is pet insurance?

Oneplan’s range of pet plans start from R142 a month and their most inclusive plan costs R390 a month.

Why are there cover exclusion and waiting periods?

Cover exclusions - where certain conditions are not covered under certain circumstances, and waiting times - where an insurer will specify an amount of time that has to pass before you can make a claim, are designed in order to ensure that any fraudulent claims are minimised and also bring down the cost of premiums for all policyholders.

Can I go to any vet of my choice?

Oneplan lets you go to any vet you like in South Africa!

How does claiming work?

The awesome thing about Oneplan is that they pay you before you see the vet. As far as I know, they are the only insurer to offer this service. Here’s how it works…

Depending on what Oneplan plan option you have chosen, all you have to do it login to the app, load your claim amount and the funds will be loaded onto your Onecard - this is sent to you when you first open a policy.

It’s that easy.

Other insurers will insist you fill in forms to be sent to them and in 2 weeks to a month, they will refund you the money owing to you for the event.

Are prescription meds covered?

Oh yes! However, these meds need to have been prescribed by your vet as a form of treatment for an accident or illness and not for a pre-existing condition.

What if my pet passes away?

In this sad event, Oneplan includes cover for burial/cremation/euthanasia up to R1500.

What routine care am I not covered for?

You are not covered for the glitz and glam such as beds, toys and any fancy accessories. Even if Bruno looks spectacular in that bedazzled collar.

What cover do vet visits include?

You are covered for 4 visits to the vet per pet every year. These include consultations, x-rays, blood tests and minor dental procedures.

How old must my pet be to be covered?

Your pet must be older than 8 weeks and younger than 9 years.

What about kennel fees?

Oneplan covers kennel costs if something happens to you. For example, if you are in an accident and have to stay in the hospital for treatment, then Oneplan will cover up to R150 per day and up to R1500 per event. Your annual limit is R1500.

If you have any more questions about Pet Insurance, then I would suggest you give Oneplan a call as they are more than happy to sort out any queries!

Until next time,

The Pet Insurance Team