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Looking for inexpensive pet insurance? In today’s ever-evolving world, safeguarding our furry friends’ health without breaking the bank has become an increasing priority for pet owners. With medical treatments for animals paralleling human healthcare in terms of advancement and cost, the importance of finding affordable pet insurance cannot be understated. But with so many options available in the market, how does one sift through the noise and find an insurance policy that provides comprehensive coverage without draining one’s wallet? This article aims to guide readers through the maze of pet insurance, highlighting tips and strategies to secure the best deal possible.

 

How Much Does Pet Insurance Cost on Average?

The price of pet insurance for dogs varies, as costs are based on a range of factors, including your dog’s age, breed, and where you live. And with the ability to tailor options for annual maximum coverage, deductibles, and reimbursement amounts, prices will also vary. Some companies only offer unlimited yearly coverage, so you won’t find much wiggle room there. However, for pet insurance brands that offer choices in coverage amount, opting for the lower maximum coverage option can lower your policy price.

Now, is the amount of the deductible important? Yes! Both the deductible and reimbursement amounts you choose will make an impact on your monthly rate. The deductible, or how much of the bill you pay as your portion, can range anywhere from fifty dollars to one thousand. Reimbursement amounts are figured in percentages, and when setting up your plan, you typically have choices of 70%, 80%, or 90%. Some providers, however, offer amounts for reimbursement as low as fifty percent.

And when considering what differences the deductible and reimbursement amount options can create, remember these two factors:

• The higher the deductible option you choose, the lower your premium will be.
• Your premium will be higher if you opt for a higher reimbursement amount.

The 9 Best Cheap Pet Insurance Companies for Dogs

#1 – Lemonade Pet Insurance

Lemonade makes our list of the best insurance for dogs because they’ve created a hassle-free insurance experience built for the 21st century. When you download the Lemonade app or visit their website, you can sign up in seconds and cover your dog with a plan tailored to your needs and budget. Maya, Lemonade’s virtual insurance agent, will walk you through the process, allowing you to customize payout percentages, annual deductible amounts, and max coverage limits. And with a choice of coverage caps that runs up to $100,000, you can create a budget-friendly dog insurance plan while creating financial peace of mind.

Unlike other insurance companies, Lemonade is insurance driven by social good. Lemonade donates unclaimed premiums to charities chosen by policyholders, including to several animal rights causes.

Wellness Add-Ons & Multi-Pet Discounts: In addition to wellness options for adult dogs, Lemonade offers a preventative care package designed especially for puppies and kittens with coverage for spaying or neutering, microchipping, flea medication, and up to six vaccines or boosters. Covering more than one pet with Lemonade will earn you a 5% discount, and if you want to combine your monthly policy fees into one annual payment, you’ll enjoy an additional 5% discount. Plus, if you also have Lemonade renters, homeowners, or car insurance policy, you’ll enjoy a 10% bundle discount.

Waiting Periods: Lemonade has three different waiting periods before you can file a claim: two days for accidents, fourteen days for illnesses, and six months for cruciate ligament events.

Sample pet insurance plan rate for a one-year-old male medium mixed breed dog using the zip code 75001 (Texas) as an example: $20.00 per month

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#2 – Embrace Pet Insurance

Embrace allows you to choose annual coverage maximums between $5,000 – $30,000. Coupling this flexibility in max coverage with multiple options for deductibles and reimbursements, you can tailor your policy to your budget. Coverage for exam fees will also bring you average savings of $50-$250 every time you visit the vet. And having a healthy pup earns you discounts with Embrace because every year your dog makes it without insurance reimbursement, you’ll get $50 off your deductible. Pre-existing conditions that prove curable are eligible for coverage after twelve months of your dog being symptom and treatment free.

Wellness Add-Ons & Multi-Pet Discounts: Add Embrace’s optional Wellness Rewards and cover routine care for annual wellness exams, vaccination, spay/neuter surgery, flea, tick, heartworm preventatives, training, and grooming. A multi-pet discount will save you 10 – 15% on your policies.

Waiting Periods: All Embrace insurance policies have a 14-day waiting period for illnesses. Waiting periods for accidents are 48 hours. All dogs have a 6-month waiting period for orthopedic conditions. You can reduce the waiting period for orthopedic conditions to fourteen days by submitting to the Orthopedic Exam and Waiver Process.

Sample pet insurance plan rate for a one-year-old male medium mixed breed dog using the zip code 75001 (Texas) as an example: $42.35 per month

#3 – Many Pets

With Many Pets, you can visit any licensed veterinarian, and there are no caps on payouts, copays, or care. Bloodwork, lab work, imaging scans, medications, surgery, in-office procedures, and hospitalizations, including emergency care, are all covered with Many Pets. And unlike many of their competitors, they cover curable pre-existing conditions once your dog has been free of symptoms and without treatment for eighteen months, excluding cruciate ligament injuries or hip dysplasia.

Wellness Add-Ons & Multi-Pet Discounts: Many Pets Preventative Care Plan add-on covers costs for routine wellness visits, vaccines, parasite testing and prevention, dental cleanings and at-home dental care, vitamins, supplements, aromatherapy, and more. They also include supplements and treatments to help with stress, anxiety, skin, coat, bone, and joint care. Many Pets does not offer a multi-pet discount at this time.

Waiting Periods: Many Pets has a 15-day policy waiting period that begins after purchase.

Sample pet insurance plan rate for a one-year-old male medium mixed breed dog using the zip code 75001 (Texas) as an example – $30.00 per month

#4 – Trupanion Pet Insurance

Trupanion gives you control by eliminating confusing deductibles and letting you choose the percentage of the covered costs. While they don’t cover exam fees, preventative care, or pre-existing conditions, they do cover expenses such as diagnostics, surgery, advanced dentistry, medications, supplements, rehabilitation, and more. Your policy with Trupanion will see you reimbursed for 90% of veterinary costs from illness and injury. And you can take your pup to any veterinary, emergency care, or specialty hospital in the US, Canada, Puerto Rico, and Australia, including US and Canadian military installations. Coverage is open to all dogs and cats from birth to 14 years of age, regardless of breed.

Wellness Add-Ons & Multi-Pet Discounts: At this time, Trupanion does not offer wellness options or multi-pet discounts.

Waiting Periods: Trupanion policies have a 5-day waiting period for injuries and a 30-day waiting period for illnesses.

Sample pet insurance plan rate for a one-year-old male medium mixed breed dog using the zip code 75001 (Texas) as an example: $68.25 per month

#5 – Prudent Pet

Choose from an array of plan types, including Accident Only, Essential for injuries or illness, or Ultimate for illness and injury with unlimited annual benefits. Plans also cover hereditary and congenital conditions, dental disease, and destructive behavioral issues. And Prudent Pet never denies coverage to dogs based on their age or breed. You can also chat with a veterinarian 24/7 when you’re part of the Prudent Pet family. Plus, they offer a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Wellness Add-Ons & Multi-Pet Discounts: Prudent Pet offers two optional add-ons, one that covers veterinary exam fees and another for wellness coverage that includes vaccines and annual checkups. Insure all the furry family and get a multi-pet discount of 10%.

Waiting Periods: Prudent Pet institutes a 5-day waiting period for accident coverage and a 14-day waiting period for illness coverage. There’s also a 6-month waiting period for all knee and ligament issues.

Sample pet insurance plan rate for a one-year-old male medium mixed breed dog using the zip code 75001 (Texas) as an example: $73.46 per month

#6 – Healthy Paws Pet Insurance

Healthy Paws’ top-rated pet insurance plans for dogs cover accidents, illnesses, cancer, emergency care, genetic and hereditary conditions, breed-specific conditions, and alternative care. With five options in deductible and reimbursement amounts, you can tailor policy costs to your budget with no problems. And with no caps on annual coverage and lifetime payouts, this best pet insurance for dogs option casts off worry over big bills while letting your pup stay with the doctor they know. Healthy Paws allows the use of any licensed veterinarian.

The claims process is insanely simple; just take a photo of your vet bill and submit it through the mobile app or online. Plus, most claims are processed within two days!

Wellness Add-Ons & Multi-Pet Discounts: At this time, Healthy Paws does not offer wellness options or multi-pet discounts.

Waiting Periods: After enrolling with Healthy Paws, your pup will incur a 15-day waiting period for accidents and illnesses before coverage begins and a 12-month waiting period for hip dysplasia.

Sample pet insurance plan rate for a one-year-old male medium mixed breed dog using the zip code 75001 (Texas) as an example: $26.25 per month

#7 – Pets Best

Pets Best offers plans that cover accidents, illnesses, cancer, emergency care, and chronic, hereditary, and congenital conditions. And because their plans allow flexibility with customizable annual limits, annual deductibles, and 70, 80, or 90% reimbursement options, you can cover your pup’s medical bills while keeping your monthly rate low. They even offer a deductible option that’s only fifty dollars, and this ability to play with coverage options gives Pets Best an edge in the field, making them one of the best pet insurance options for dogs.

Plus, you can even choose to have them pay your vet directly, so you don’t even have to fuss with getting it done. You’ll also have access to the Pets Best 24/7 Emergency Vet Hotline. And when it comes to pre-existing conditions, issues like broken legs or kennel cough, once healed or cured, are no longer considered pre-existing conditions.

Wellness Add-Ons & Multi-Pet Discounts: Pets Best offers dog wellness plans that can be added to your dog’s medical coverage, helping dog parents cover regular vet visits, vaccinations, spay/neuter surgeries, and dental cleanings. And when you enroll more than one pet, you can earn a 5% discount on your policies.

Waiting Periods: Pets Best has waiting periods of three days for accidents, fourteen days for illness, and six months for cruciate ligament conditions. If you add a routine care plan, this coverage begins on your policy effective date.

Sample pet insurance plan rate for a one-year-old male medium mixed breed dog using the zip code 75001 (Texas) as an example: $35.81 per month

#8 – FIGO Pet Insurance

One of the best pet insurance companies on the market, FIGO offers plans that cover common illnesses, accidents, emergencies, cancer, hereditary and congenital disorders, chronic conditions, and so much more. And with a choice of $5,000 or an unlimited amount for the maximum annual coverage amount, you have the power to create a plan that fits your pup’s medical needs and your budget. And a range of deductible and reimbursement options lets you decide what you want to pay out of pocket or how much you’d like to get back from your claims. FIGO also covers pre-existing conditions considered curable if your dog shows no signs or symptoms within 12 months of treatment.

Plus, lightning-fast service means most claims close in an average of 2.6 working days. And as a customer with FIGO, you’ll have free 24/7 access to a licensed veterinary professional.

Wellness Add-Ons & Multi-Pet Discounts: FIGO Wellness Powerups options allow you the choice of three plan add-ons to help you cover more costs, including coverage for annual exams, vaccines, cremation/burial, lost pet services, vacation cancellation due to pet emergency, boarding fees, pet theft or loss, and more. You can also expect a multi-pet discount of five percent when you enroll all your furry ones for coverage with FIGO.

Waiting Periods: Figo has a one-day waiting period for accidents related to an injury. They also offer an Orthopedic Conditions waiver to eliminate the six-month waiting period for orthopedic conditions.  

Sample pet insurance plan rate for a one-year-old male medium mixed breed dog using the zip code 75001 (Texas) as an example: $69.30 per month

Related: Best Pet Prescription Discount Cards

#9 – Wagmo Pet Insurance

Wagmo offers a hassle-free digital experience for dog parents looking for affordable pet insurance that covers accidents and illness, plus the emergency and catastrophic care needed to treat them. And with flexible deductible options and reimbursement levels of ninety or one hundred present, you can mix and match to build your perfect package. Plus, their dog insurance plans start as low as $13 a month.

In addition to covering the usuals like emergency care, imaging, cancer treatments, and hereditary and congenital conditions, Wagmo also includes coverage for prescriptions, pet ambulances, and even hip dysplasia.

Wellness Add-Ons & Multi-Pet Discounts: Wagmo Wellness helps pay for routine care like annual vet exam fees, bloodwork, vaccines, and even grooming. Wellness plan pricing starts at twenty dollars per month. Save up to 10% off when you cover multiple pets and earn an additional 15% off after a year with no claims at renewal. Wagmo does not offer a multiple-pet discount at this time.

Waiting Periods: Wagmo has no waiting periods for wellness plans, but everyday accident and illness coverage plans have a waiting period of fifteen days. For cancer treatments, the waiting period is thirty days.

Sample pet insurance plan rate for a one-year-old male medium mixed breed dog using the zip code 75001 (Texas) as an example: $15.00 per month

The Best Pet Insurance for Dogs Is Just A Click Away

So, who’s the best pet insurance company for dogs? The answer depends on your furry friend’s needs and your budget, but surely, you’ll find the right choice for your dog’s health coverage on our list. Any of these nine companies offers a solid reputation, excellent customer care, and flexible plans to help you easily cover the vet bills.

And now that you’ve done your research, it’s time to compare the quotes. Use our handy tool to find out how much pet insurance for your dog will cost!

 

10 Tips for Finding Inexpensive & Affordable Pet Insurance

1. Start Early: Securing insurance while your pet is young can lead to numerous benefits. Younger animals tend to have lower premium costs, and by ensuring them early, you reduce the risk of developing conditions that might later be categorized as “pre-existing” and hence not covered. An early start means more peace of mind and potential cost savings down the line.

2. Shop Around: Every insurance provider has its own set of offerings and price points. Investing time in comparing multiple providers can result in finding the perfect balance between coverage and cost. Consider using online comparison tools and always get multiple quotes to ensure you’re capturing a full view of the market landscape.

3. Read Reviews: Customer testimonials and reviews can offer invaluable insights into an insurer’s reliability, customer service quality, and claims processing efficiency. In addition to looking at overall ratings, pay close attention to the experiences of those with similar pets or needs to your own.

4. Understand the Fine Print: Terms and conditions can be complex, but they dictate how your coverage functions. By understanding concepts like deductibles (the amount you pay before insurance kicks in) and exclusions (what’s not covered), you can avoid unwelcome surprises and make sure you’re getting real value for your money.

5. Consider Annual Premium Payments: While monthly payments might seem more manageable, some insurers reward clients who pay their premiums on an annual basis with significant discounts. Crunch the numbers to see if a lump-sum payment can lead to long-term savings.

6. Bundle Pets: If you’re a multi-pet household, you’re in a good position to save. Many insurance providers offer discounts for covering more than one pet, turning your larger furry family into an opportunity for bigger savings.

7. Ask About Discounts: Beyond multi-pet discounts, there are numerous other opportunities to save. Some insurers offer discounts for microchipped pets, military members, or even employees of certain companies. Always ask a potential insurer about all available discount opportunities.

8. Opt for Customizable Plans: Not all pets or pet owners have the same needs. Some insurance providers allow clients to adjust aspects of their plans, like choosing a higher deductible in exchange for a lower monthly premium. This flexibility can help tailor your plan to better fit both your pet’s health needs and your financial situation.

9. Skip the Frills: While add-ons like wellness plans can be beneficial, they also add to the cost. If you’re trying to cut costs and are more concerned about significant, unexpected health events, consider a more basic plan that covers just accidents and illnesses. Regular check-ups might be something you can budget for separately.

10. Regularly Review and Adjust: As with all types of insurance, it’s essential to revisit your pet insurance plan periodically. As your pet ages, or as your financial or living situation changes, there may be new opportunities to adjust your coverage, ensuring you’re always getting the best deal possible.

 

Frequently Asked Questions About Finding Cheap Pet Insurance

1. What is pet insurance?
Pet insurance is a policy taken out by pet owners to cover potential veterinary costs associated with illnesses, injuries, or routine care. Similar to human health insurance, it can help protect against unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind for pet owners.

2. Why should I consider getting pet insurance?
Just as with humans, pets can experience sudden illnesses or accidents. Pet insurance helps manage these unforeseen costs, ensuring your pet gets the best care without putting a strain on your finances.

3. Does cheap pet insurance mean lower quality coverage?
Not necessarily. While some cheaper policies might offer limited coverage, by researching and comparing plans, you can find affordable options that still provide comprehensive protection.

4. How can I find affordable pet insurance options?
Start by comparing different providers online, reading reviews, and getting multiple quotes. Additionally, consider factors like the deductible, coverage limits, and exclusions to ensure you’re getting a good deal.

5. What should I look for in a cheap pet insurance policy?
Look for policies that cover accidents, illnesses, and preventive care, have a reasonable deductible, offer a good reimbursement rate, and have transparent terms and conditions.

6. Are there any hidden costs associated with cheap pet insurance?
Some policies might have exclusions, payout limits, or additional fees for specific services. Always read the policy’s fine print to understand any potential extra costs.

7. Can I get pet insurance if my pet has a pre-existing condition?
While most pet insurance policies won’t cover pre-existing conditions, some might offer coverage at a higher premium or after a waiting period.

8. Does age affect the cost of pet insurance?
Yes, generally, insuring older pets is more expensive because they are more likely to develop health issues. However, early enrollment can lock in lower rates.

9. How does breed affect pet insurance premiums?
Certain breeds are predisposed to specific health issues, which might increase premiums. Researching breed-specific risks can give you an idea of potential insurance costs.

10. Are there discounts available for pet insurance?
Many providers offer discounts for insuring multiple pets, paying annually, or being a member of specific organizations. Always ask providers about available discounts.

11. Will neutering or spaying my pet reduce insurance costs?
Often, yes. Neutered or spayed pets typically have fewer health risks, which might lead to lower premiums.

12. How are claims handled with pet insurance?
Typically, the pet owner pays the veterinary bill upfront and then submits a claim to the insurance company for reimbursement.

13. How long does it take to get reimbursed?
Reimbursement times vary among providers but usually take a few weeks. Always check with your chosen provider to get an estimated timeline.

14. Are routine check-ups covered by pet insurance?
Some comprehensive policies or wellness add-ons cover routine care, but basic plans might not. Review the policy details to determine coverage.

15. Can I choose my own vet?
Most pet insurance policies allow you to choose any licensed veterinarian. However, always verify with the insurance provider to avoid surprises.

16. What if I travel with my pet? Is coverage still valid?
Many policies offer coverage regardless of location, but some might have geographical restrictions. Before traveling, confirm with your provider.

17. Can I adjust my coverage after the policy has started?
Yes, many insurance providers allow adjustments to your coverage, but this might affect your premiums and coverage terms.

18. How do I know if an insurance provider is reputable?
Check online reviews, ask for referrals, and research their history in the market. Providers with a good track record and positive feedback are generally more reliable.

19. Is there a waiting period before my coverage begins?
Most policies have a waiting period (often a few days to a month) after enrollment before coverage kicks in, especially for illnesses.

20. Are there any alternative options to traditional pet insurance?
Yes, pet wellness plans or pet savings accounts are alternatives. These options focus on routine care or allow you to save specifically for pet care, but they may not offer the same extensive coverage as insurance.

 

Conclusion: Finding the Best Cheap Pet Insurance

Securing affordable pet insurance is not a matter of luck but one of informed decision-making. As pet owners, it’s our responsibility to ensure our companions receive the care they deserve without compromising on quality or emptying our savings. By researching, comparing, and understanding the nuances of different insurance plans, one can find a policy that aligns with both the pet’s needs and the owner’s budget. Remember, cheap doesn’t always mean inferior; with the right approach and knowledge, you can safeguard your pet’s health economically, ensuring peace of mind for years to come.

 

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