When we think of insurance, the first thing that comes to mind may be health insurance, then home, auto, and life. Depending on which stage of life you are in, these may shift with priority. However, thinking of our pets and insurance may not be as common to consider. When the time comes, how to find the best insurance for your pets may be easier than you think.
Your current homeowners insurance carrier should be your first call when looking for a pet insurance company.
As an independent insurance agent, I have access to a number of insurance carriers. Auto-Owners and Liberty are my two main carriers that offer great coverage for our pets. If you have a homeowners or even an auto policy from one of these carriers you should give your agent a call first. Bundling policies can save you money on pet insurance by providing discounts on other policies you already have in place.
Understanding Limitations on Pet Insurance
Purchasing pet insurance is just like purchasing other types of coverage. Limits, rules, exclusions, and endorsements exist that can affect the total premium you pay. Below are a few considerations to take, before you start shopping.
- Preexisting conditions are not normally covered.
- Heriditary and congenital conditions are sometimes covered. Liberty Mutual offers coverage on breed specific traits.
- Documentation is very important, regular visits to the bet, staying up to date on shots, etc need to be documented in case of a claim.
- Know what features you want that might not be tied directly to coverage. For example, some carriers offer mobile apps, tracking through gps, and online claim filing.
- Age of pet can affect premium and eligibility. However, typically after a policy is in place, they would not have coverage cancelled as they get older.
- Typically coverage is for Dogs and Cats.
Types of Pet Insurance
Generally there are three types of pet insurance, typically sold as a good better and best. The first type is Accident Coverage, which covers accidental injuries, swallowing a foreign object, or accidental death. Next is Accident and Illness, which adds on coverage to cover illinesses like cancer and kennel cough. The last is Accident, Illness, and Wellness, which offers coverage for routine treatment like deworming, dental, and even special dietary foods.
Not every carrier will offer the same packages, figuring out what coverage you need before shopping will help you narrow down company options. Liberty Mutual offers the best Pet Insurance in my opinion and offers multiple packages designed to fit your need and budget.
Pet Insurance Quotes are free, quick and easy. Visit my Pet Insurance Quote page to get started.
Looking for information on why your pet is excluded from your homeowners insurance? I have a post explaining why, even if your dog isn’t a dangerous breed, insurance declines eligibility due to the breed.