can i buy pet insurance for an older dog?

This is something you’ve been wondering and the short answer is yes, but there are so many other things to consider. The information put together here will help you decide what is the best course of action.

In Canada and the United States, the population spends billions of dollars on veterinarian costs.

Most people don’t understand pet insurance, so they will likely avoid it completely. 

Before you venture down this path, let’s explore some things you may not be aware of, or simply didn’t have to think about before.

 After reading this, you will have a better understanding of the direction you should take, and will confidently be able to make an informed decision.

Pet insurance age limit

Pets age so fast, you can easily start to wonder if your dog can even get insurance. The good news is your canine shouldn’t have a problem getting coverage.

While some companies may prevent you from getting coverage for your dog once it reaches a certain age, don’t let this discourage you. There are other places that will be more than happy to help your pet with its insurance needs.

 

How does pet insurance work?

Finding a policy will be your first step, so we will go deeper into detail to help you make the best choice for your dog.

Most policies should be fairly easy to understand, which most will offer a few simple choices.

Some insurance companies have different amounts they are willing to contribute towards your vet bills, but this will completely depend on how large of a premium you are willing to pay.

You will also have to pay a deductible before they pay anything, and would be similar to how auto insurance works. Once you pay the deductible, then they would reimburse for any additional costs that your original policy states.

When you have found a policy you are happy with, now you will have to start paying your premiums.

Most companies offer a discount if you pay for the year, so choose this option if you can afford to. The savings from this will allow you to get some nice things for your dog. 

If you choose to pay annually, make sure to write a reminder, and don’t be late with your next annual payment.

Locating a vet for your dog

Any licensed vet should be okay to bring your dog to, but I would suggest checking with your insurance company to make sure there isn’t something you weren’t aware of.

Submitting your claim

This should be the easiest part of the whole process. All you need to do is have you and your vet fill out the appropriate paperwork, and send it to the insurance company with any receipts.

Your veterinarian should be able to send them on your behalf, but not a big deal if you have to do it.

Once it has been mailed to them, then you just need to wait patiently for them to reimburse you.  

Insurance companies are usually very consistent with how long it takes to process the claim, so you will have a good idea of how long it takes after you have gone through it once.

Keep in mind, holidays can delay how long it will take for them to process it.

Is pet insurance worth it?

The benefits of pet insurance

As your pet ages, the likelihood your pet will need veterinarian care increases. Costs continue to climb, and some of these treatments can cost you a small fortune.

You’re probably not going to be able to afford these types of treatments unless you have properly prepared yourself financially.

Pets are an essential part of most families, and to some people, an animal may be the only thing they have in their life. These animals will spend such a large time of their life with us, which is why it makes sense you would naturally want the very best for your pet.

Having a policy may prevent a pet owner from financial ruin. When you think of the cost someone may face if something happens, the minimal price to have them insured seems worth it.

Instead of risking your savings from being consumed by an unexpected pet health emergency, it may be a good idea to consider getting a policy to reduce some of the worries.

Is there a downside to owning pet insurance?

As you can already see there is. It can be a big confusing mess and trying to make sense of it can seem exhausting.

Insurance companies can be so restrictive with their policies, which may make it feel like they are completely useless.

This is where you will have to be selective to make sure you get proper coverage needed.

Some insurance companies may not cover your pet if it’s older, but if some do, it may not be worth it. Shopping around for the best price will help you make this decision.

Is pet insurance worth the cost?   

If you are trying to avoid some massive medical bills, then it certainly makes sense to get insurance. 

There really isn’t a better way to protect you or your loved one.

An Insurance Policy is never intended to be used but can shelter you from unexpected events as they get thrown at you. It will help you absorb any financial hardships that come your way. 

And the most important part of all of this is, you will now be able to get your pet the necessary medical treatment.

Can I buy travel insurance for my dog?

Yes, there are companies that would be willing to provide coverage for your dog while traveling abroad.

Coverage will vary depending on the provider you decide to take, so choose accordingly. 

Do I need travel insurance for my dog when traveling abroad?

No, this isn’t a requirement. Remember that insurance is to protect you and your loved pet from the unexpected, so a policy may deduce any unforeseen challenges.

Should I cancel my pet insurance?

The idea of pet insurance is to help you absorb some of the unforeseen events in your life. If your dog gets hit by a vehicle or develops a serious infection, this is where having a policy could help.

If your dog has to get emergency surgery, Disneyland will seem cheap in comparison.

This is a tough question that only you can figure out. There’s no right or wrong answer to this. Decide what is best for the present situation, and make sure you are comfortable with the choice you make.

Best senior pet insurance

What is the average cost of pet insurance for dogs?

The cost depends on what type of insurance you are looking to get for your dog.

If you are just looking for accident insurance, then this will be the cheapest option available for you. The price varies depending on the size of the deductible, and how much coverage you want.

If you’re confident that your dog will not need too much coverage, or maybe you’re just looking for something a little more cost-effective, then this might be the best option.

A more comprehensive policy will be costly but will provide you with more things that may be important to you. The price will be significantly higher, and the deductible can easily double.

There’s always the possibility of many unexpected events happening to your aging dog. We can anticipate what should happen, but it’s much harder to predict and know what the costs of these medical expenses are near impossible.

Stay within your budget, and make the best choice for you and your dog. 

Is medication covered by pet insurance?

While some insurance companies won’t cover prescriptions, there are many who do. You just need to know that coverage doesn’t apply to over the counter items. 

Anything that you can buy off the shelf will come out of your wallet only. 

What is not covered by pet insurance?

This will also depend on the type of insurance you want. Choosing between Accident Only, or a Comprehensive Plan will determine what is covered.

Each company will be unique, and you will need to explore what they have available. 

It would be a good idea to make a list of the things you are interested in, then ask the insurance company about each one of them.

Each company will be slightly different from the other, so make sure to take notes.

How fast does pet insurance kick in?

Pet policies generally take a few weeks before they can be used. 

While you are in this brief moment of the insurance not being active, take advantage of this time, and read the fine print.  

What pet insurance covers vet visits?

Any comprehensive plan should cover vet visits, but you will need to speak with your insurance company to make that determination.

Is diabetes covered by pet insurance?

Some plans can cover diabetes for pets, but this only applies if your dog didn’t have this issue before the policy.

An insurance company will not cover any pre-existing condition, which includes diabetes.

Can you get pet insurance if your pet is already sick?

No, if your dog is already sick they will not provide insurance for this pet. Any pre-existing condition will be excluded from the policy. 

Tips for getting pet insurance for your dog

• Read the fine print – Double check and read everything in the policy before taking it.
• Pet needs dental insurance – If your dog needs this, make sure to ask about what plan you would need to get this coverage.
• Review the cost and value of the policy – It’s nice to have insurance, but make sure it has everything your dog needs. Don’t get stuck with a policy that won’t help when needed. Figure out what expenses you may need covered, and see if any of that is included.
• Check for a discount – Some insurance companies will offer a discount for insuring multiple pets. 
• Read reviews – It’s always wise to see what others think of this insurance company. There are lots of choices, so don’t feel obligated to take the first one. You may end up finding out something about them you don’t like.
• Ask your vet – Talk to your veterinarian, and ask them what type of insurance they think would be best for your dog. I think this is a resource more people should take advantage of.

Conclusion

It’s not an easy choice to decide if you should buy pet insurance, or just put the money away in a bank for the day you need it.

If your dog is older, then you might not have the opportunity to save enough money before medical bills start piling in.

Don’t ever let the age of a dog discourage you from having one. Older dogs need a home too, and it takes a wonderful person to allow something so precious into their life.

Each dog is unique and will experience its own age-related conditions. You can still buy insurance for an older dog, so this pet will have the protection when the time comes that it’s needed.

Thank you for reading, and check out everythingbigdogs.com every week for more great topics.