At Port City Animal Hospital, we’re committed to helping pet parents make informed decisions that keep their dogs and cats healthy throughout every stage of life. One of the most common topics we’re asked about is pet insurance—what it is, how it works, and whether it’s truly worth it. Below, we’ve answered the most important questions to help you understand how pet insurance can protect your pet and your budget.
What is pet insurance, and how does it work?
Pet insurance is a policy that helps cover the cost of veterinary care in the event of illness, injury, or emergencies. Most plans work on a reimbursement model:
- You visit your veterinarian for needed care.
- You pay the bill at checkout.
- You submit the invoice to your insurance provider.
- They reimburse you based on your plan’s coverage and deductible.
Some insurers offer direct pay programs, but reimbursement is still the most common. Two of the pet insurance companies that we most often recommend, (that also offer a pre-pay option dependent on approval and your coverage), would be Trupanion and Pumpkin!
Is pet insurance worth it for dog and cat owners?
In our experience at Port City Animal Hospital: yes—in most cases, it is absolutely worth it. Pets, like people, can face unexpected injuries or illnesses. Emergency visits, surgeries, and chronic conditions can become costly very quickly. Insurance ensures you never have to choose between the care your pet needs and what you can afford.
How much does pet insurance cost, and what affects the price?
Monthly premiums can range from $20–$90+, depending on factors such as:
- Your pet’s species (dogs typically cost more than cats)
- Breed
- Age
- Your location
- The type of coverage you choose
- Your deductible and reimbursement percentage
You get to customize a plan that fits both your needs and your budget.
Common terms used with pet insurance:
Premium
The monthly amount you pay to keep your policy active.
Deductible
The amount you pay out of pocket before insurance starts reimbursing you.
- Some plans have an annual deductible (paid once per year).
- Others have a per-condition deductible (paid for each new issue).
Reimbursement Rate
The percentage the insurance company pays back after your deductible — often 70%, 80%, or 90%.
Annual Limit
The maximum amount the company will reimburse in one policy year.
Waiting Period
The time between enrollment and when coverage begins.
- Accidents may have shorter waiting periods.
- Illnesses and orthopedic conditions may have longer ones.
What does pet insurance cover, and are there different types of coverage?
Most companies offer three main types of plans:
Accident Only: Covers unexpected injuries such as bites, broken bones, ingestions, or trauma.
Accident & Illness: Covers injuries and medical issues like vomiting/diarrhea, infections, skin problems, allergies, chronic disease, cancer, and more.
Wellness Plans (Add-On): Covers preventative care, such as vaccines, heartworm testing, fecal screenings, spays/neuters, and dental cleanings. Not all companies offer wellness add-ons, so it’s important to check before enrolling.
How does pet health insurance differ from human health insurance?
Pet insurance is simpler. There are no in-network requirements, no copays, and no annual open-enrollment period. You can go to any veterinarian, including specialists and emergency hospitals. Human insurance pays the doctor directly. Pet insurance typically reimburses you after the visit unless you are enrolled with an insurance company that offers a pre-payment option.
What are the best pet insurance options for dogs and cats?
While “best” can vary by pet and by budget, companies our clients frequently use include:
- Trupanion
- Pumpkin
- Nationwide
- Pet’s Best
- Embrace
- Lemonade
- ASPCA
While these are the companies we see most often, there are several different options out there, and we are happy to provide resources to help you find the best option for you and your pet! All insurance companies also offer quotes, which allow you to dig deeper into coverage that way as well.
Pet Insurance Review is a helpful resource to compare all of the different plans that are available with different insurance companies!
How can pet owners compare pet insurance companies to find the best plan?
Compare:
- Monthly cost
- Coverage for hereditary or chronic conditions
- Reimbursement percentages
- Annual limits
- Deductible choices
- Waiting periods
- Customer reviews
- Whether they offer wellness add-ons
A good rule: avoid choosing solely based on price—the cheapest plan may not cover much when you really need it.
What are the benefits of dog health insurance, and how does it help with veterinary care?
Dog insurance helps cover major medical costs from accidents, injuries, orthopedic issues, allergies, or chronic conditions. Many dog breeds are prone to specific health concerns, so having coverage early can save pet parents thousands over a dog’s lifetime.
How do pre-existing conditions affect pet insurance coverage?
Pet insurance does not cover pre-existing conditions—anything noted or symptomatic before your policy begins.
This is why we recommend enrolling puppies and kittens early, before any medical issues arise.
Are there any free or low-cost pet insurance options?
There are no free insurance plans, but some companies offer:
- Lower-cost accident-only plans
- Bundled discounts with home or auto insurance
- Employer benefit discounts
- Wellness memberships that reduce the cost of preventive care
If you have questions regarding pet insurance, give us a call at (912) 525-0255. We’re here to help!