Just like medical insurance for us, pet insurance can help cover unexpected expenses due to accidents or illnesses—or even general wellness costs. But weighing your circumstances might be a wise decision when deciding if pet insurance is worth it for you. From the age of your dog to your financial position, several factors go into determining if pet insurance is right for you.
How Does Pet Insurance Work?
Pet insurance typically operates on a reimbursement model, meaning you pay your vet expenses upfront and then submit a claim to your insurance provider for reimbursement. Most pet insurance plans include:
Deductibles: The amount you must pay out of pocket before insurance kicks in. This can be an annual deductible or a per-incident deductible.
Reimbursement Rates: Insurance companies typically reimburse a percentage of eligible expenses, commonly ranging from 70% to 90%.
Coverage Options: Policies can cover accidents only, illnesses, or comprehensive plans that include wellness and preventative care.
What Does Pet Insurance Cover?
Coverage varies by provider, but here are some common categories:
Accidents & Illnesses: This covers injuries, infections, cancer treatments, and emergency surgeries.
Chronic Conditions: Some plans cover ongoing conditions like diabetes or arthritis, while others do not.
Preventative & Wellness Care: Routine exams, vaccinations, flea and tick prevention, and dental cleanings may be included in certain plans.
Exclusions: Most plans do not cover pre-existing conditions, elective procedures, or cosmetic treatments.
Spay/Neuter & Dental Procedures: While not covered in most general plans, these may be covered under specific wellness add-ons, so check with individual providers.
What Does Pet Insurance Cost?
The cost of pet insurance varies based on factors such as your dog’s breed, age, and location. As of 2025, the average cost of dog insurance is $676 per year, or about $56 per month.
Keep in mind that premiums typically increase as your dog ages, and certain breeds prone to medical conditions may have higher insurance rates.
Should I Get Pet Insurance?
Here are some pros and cons of getting pet insurance to help you make a decision:
Pros:
Provides financial protection in case of emergencies.
Helps you plan and budget for pet care.
Allows for better access to quality veterinary care.
Gives peace of mind knowing you can afford necessary treatments.
Cons:
Monthly premiums add up, and some conditions, especially pre-existing ones, may not be covered.
Reimbursement models require paying out-of-pocket initially.
Premiums often increase as your dog gets older— when they begin to experience more health problems and may need coverage the most.
If your pet only experiences minor health issues throughout its life, you are likely to end up paying more in premiums than you receive in reimbursements.
Alternatives to Pet Insurance
If pet insurance doesn’t seem like the right choice for you, here are a few alternatives:
Pet Savings Account: Setting aside money each month in a dedicated savings account for veterinary expenses can help cover costs without the need for insurance.
Wellness Plans: Some veterinary offices offer wellness plans that include routine checkups and preventative care at a fixed monthly cost.
Charitable Funds and Payment Plans: Some organizations offer financial assistance for emergency pet care, and many vets provide payment plan options for costly treatments.