I recently asked all of you to send through any questions you had regarding pet insurance, and you did not disappoint. Here are the top 10 most asked questions! Who knows, maybe you’ll see your question here?
Let’s not babble on with an introduction today and get straight into your questions. I did try to answer these questions as thoroughly and comprehensively as humanly possible.
Alright, let’s get into it.
What exactly is pet insurance?
Let’s start strong, shall we? Simply put, pet insurance is a type of cover bought by a pet owner to help offset a number of unforeseen costs. This typically includes significant vet bills that they could not otherwise afford, due to sudden accidents, emergencies or illnesses.
Are pet policies easy to understand?
I know how it may seem a little daunting with a new industry - especially a division that deals exclusively with pets. All of a sudden, you’re thrown new terminology and expected to use them as a lifeline.
The thing is that pet insurance is fairly easy to understand, especially if you already have human insurance. That being said, only sign up with an insurer that is willing to slowly walk you through your entire policy in a way that is easily understood.
Can I go to any veterinarian of my choosing?
This is one of the many perks of taking out a pet policy. Pet insurance doesn’t keep you locked into a list of network associated vets. You have the freedom to go to any registered veterinarian. This means that you get to choose one based on budget, geographic location and availability.
What kind of coverage is available?
Naturally, every pet insurer will offer their own exclusive pet policy packages based on your budget and needs, however, most insurers will offer a more affordable package that generally only covers accidents and illness and the more expensive option is their comprehensive package which includes all the bells and whistles. In between these two offerings are several policies with varying perks and prices.
Do you offer coverage for wellness, preventative or routine care for my pet?
Unfortunately, not all pet policies cover these additional pet care elements. These offerings are oftentimes reserved for more comprehensive pet policies. I should however stress that if you can afford to opt for a bigger package that is inclusive of these things - go for it. You will not regret it. They are the best form of holistic care!
Do all pet insurers have a waiting period?
When taking out pet insurance the last thing you want to hear is that you have to abide by a waiting period, which means that you will not be able to access your benefits until the waiting period is over.
As a general rule of thumb in the insurance industry, all insurers have to enforce a waiting period. This has been created with both the insurer and insured in mind. I have written an entire blog on this topic, and you can check it out here!
How do I file a claim?
Every insurance company has their own exclusive claiming process. However, they all essentially follow similar steps. They usually go as follows:
- To claim you must submit a fully completed claim form and attach a copy of the detailed account, medical evidence and/or any other information as we may reasonably request.
- Submit the information to their claims division for assessment and processing.
Are discounts offered?
It is important to remember that the very nature of pet insurance is to keep pet care affordable, which is why you will notice how several of the biggest pet insurers have significantly low premiums.
For that reason, many of these companies do not offer a long-winded list of discounts. However, you can breathe a sigh of relief if you have more than one pet as that will make you eligible for a multiple pet discount rate.
Can you choose your deductible?
Yes, you will be offered a variety of deductibles that you can choose from when taking out a policy. Keep in mind that the higher your premium, the lower the deductible and vice versa.
Is there a maximum pet age, where your pet is no longer covered?
For most pet policies, an age limit will apply. Generally, the maximum age limit for you to enrol your pet for pet insurance is 9 years old (unless you purchase an accident-only plan).
But, if your pet is signed up with a policy with us before he or she reaches the tender age of 9, then your pet is covered with pet care for life on your chosen plan!
Before you commit to any kind of pet policy you must take the time out to fully understand pet insurance. After all, knowledge is power, right?
Until next time,
The Pet Insurance Team