Pet Insurance

Be Prepared for the Unexpected

Pets bring love, loyalty, and joy into our lives, but sometimes that joy comes with unexpected injuries or illnesses. In fact, one in three pets will need emergency treatment each year. As pet owners, having a financial plan in place ensures that when emergencies arise, decisions can be made based on the best care for your pet—not financial constraints. We encourage every pet owner to explore their pet insurance options to be better prepared for any situation.

Pet Insurance 101: What You Need to Know

Not all pet insurance is the same.
Coverage varies—some plans cover accidents but not illnesses, while others include chronic conditions like cancer. Be sure to research your options carefully.

You pay upfront and get reimbursed.
Unlike human health insurance, pet insurance operates on a reimbursement basis. You’ll pay your veterinary bill first, then submit a claim to your provider for reimbursement.

Pre-existing conditions aren’t covered.
Pet insurance does not cover conditions diagnosed before enrollment. Just like you can’t buy car insurance after an accident and expect coverage, pet insurance must be in place before an issue arises.

Is Pet Insurance Worth It?

Pet insurance can help protect you from large, unexpected vet bills. If a major health issue would put a financial strain on your family or force you to consider euthanasia, insurance could provide peace of mind and financial security.

Choosing the Right Plan: A Pet Insurance Checklist

Before selecting a policy, consider these key factors:

✔ Coverage: Does the plan include preventive care, emergency visits, or chronic conditions?
✔ Company Reputation: How long has the insurer been in business? Do they have veterinary professionals on staff?
✔ Policy Details: Are there waiting periods, exclusions, or cancellation fees? What are the premiums, deductibles, and reimbursement rates?
✔ Limitations: Are there restrictions based on breed, age, or pre-existing conditions? Are there multiple pet discounts?
✔ Claims & Costs: How are claims processed, and how long does reimbursement take? What are the financial limits on coverage?

To make comparing policies easier, PawlicyAdvisor is a helpful resource that allows pet owners to review multiple providers in one place and find the best fit for their pet’s needs. Our hospital maintains a good relationship with Pumpkin.