iHeartDogs Names “Best 9 California Pet Insurance Plans” + (1 To Avoid!)

Choosing the right pet insurance company for you and your dog or other pets in California can be a frustrating and confusing process. How much coverage will my plan provide? How fast will I be reimbursed? Are there any health issues not covered?

Here at iHeartDogs, we created an easy comparison below of all the major pet insurance brands in California and across the US. You can also use the form below to receive a no obligation quote from all the major California pet insurance carriers at once, allowing you to compare pricing and coverage:

Best Pet & Dog Insurance in California

Let’s take a deep dive into the features and benefits of each of the major pet insurance brands here in California and across the USA. Simply scroll to the right to view all the brands:

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.

Receive a Free No-Obligation Quote from All the California Pet Insurance Carriers At Once
Rather than visiting each insurance carrier’s website, you can use the form below to receive a no obligation quote from all the pet insurance carriers at once, allowing you to easily compare:

So What’s The Worst Pet Insurance in California?

Easy. It’s the pet insurance you decide to look for after your dog has become sick or injured! Sadly, pre-existing conditions are excluded from coverage on most plans. The cheapest time to buy pet insurance is the day your new dog came home. However, the second cheapest time is today.

Rising Veterinary Costs in California and the Imperative for Pet Insurance

Over the past decade, California has witnessed a marked increase in veterinary costs, a trend reflecting nationwide inflation in pet healthcare. This surge is primarily driven by advances in veterinary medicine, which now boasts high-tech diagnostic tools, specialized treatments, and surgical procedures that were previously reserved for human healthcare. While this progress has undeniably enhanced pet care quality, it also implies higher costs for pet owners.

The average cost for routine veterinary services, such as vaccinations and wellness check-ups, has been steadily rising. Furthermore, emergency visits or treatment for serious conditions, such as cancer, can cost thousands of dollars, often causing financial stress for families. In fact, a single accident or illness can lead to veterinary bills that rival human healthcare costs.

In light of these escalating costs, pet insurance has emerged as a crucial tool for pet owners in California. It provides a financial safety net, ensuring pet owners are not forced to choose between their finances and their pet’s health. Most importantly, it allows pet owners to afford the best possible care without the distressing financial strain often associated with unexpected vet bills.

Pet insurance plans can cover everything from routine check-ups and preventive care to emergency services and surgeries. The peace of mind gained from knowing that potential veterinary care costs are covered often far outweighs the monthly premiums, particularly when faced with a pet health emergency.

Given the trajectory of veterinary costs, investing in pet insurance isn’t merely a thoughtful consideration for Californians; it’s fast becoming a necessity. Ensuring comprehensive coverage for your pet safeguards not just their health, but also your financial stability, allowing you to focus on providing a loving home for your pet, free from undue financial stress.

Related: New Website Launches with Unbiased Pet Insurance Reviews

Tips for Finding The Best Pet Insurance in California

Finding the best pet insurance in California might seem like a daunting task due to the vast number of companies and plans available. However, it doesn’t have to be that way. Here are some essential tips to help you choose the best coverage for your beloved pet:

1. Understand Your Pet’s Specific Needs: Before diving into the world of pet insurance, assess your pet’s unique needs. Consider their breed, age, health condition, and lifestyle. Some breeds are prone to specific health conditions, so a policy that covers these conditions is a prudent choice.
2. Explore Different Types of Coverage: Pet insurance typically falls into three categories: accident-only, wellness coverage (for routine checkups, vaccinations, etc.), and comprehensive (which includes both). Understand what each type of coverage offers and decide what best suits your pet’s needs.
3. Compare Multiple Providers: Don’t settle for the first policy you find. Instead, compare at least three different insurance providers. Look at the coverage they offer, the cost, customer service ratings, and any limitations or exclusions. Websites like NAPHIA (North American Pet Health Insurance Association) can provide unbiased comparisons of different providers.
4. Read the Fine Print: Once you’ve shortlisted a few insurance plans, read the fine print carefully. Some plans might exclude certain conditions or have payout limits that could affect your pet’s coverage.
5. Check Reviews and Ratings: Look for customer reviews and ratings of the pet insurance companies you’re considering. You can also check their Better Business Bureau rating to see if there have been any significant complaints against them.
6. Consider the Deductible and Premiums: The cost of pet insurance can vary greatly, and so can the way you pay for it. Some policies have a deductible, which is the amount you must pay before your insurance kicks in. Other policies might have a co-pay, where you pay a percentage of the total cost.
7. Ask About Discounts: Some insurance providers offer discounts if you insure multiple pets, pay annually, or are part of specific groups like military or seniors. It’s always worth asking about potential discounts to save money.
8. Plan for the Long Term: Pet insurance is a long-term commitment. Switching providers can sometimes mean pre-existing conditions won’t be covered under a new plan. So choose a provider you feel confident will be around for the long haul, offering consistent and comprehensive coverage.
9. Direct Consultation: Consult with your vet about which insurance they feel provides the best coverage for your pet’s needs. They might have insights from dealing with different providers.

Pet insurance can be a significant factor in ensuring the health and longevity of your furry friend. With the right approach and consideration, you can find the perfect plan in California that ensures your pet is well protected.

Related: New Website Launches with Unbiased Reviews of Pet Insurance Providers

California Pet Insurance FAQs

Are pet insurances accepted everywhere in California?

People in California looking to help cover the rising costs of veterinary services can utilize pet insurance to cover their pet bills for a monthly fee. Several insurance companies offer pet insurance coverage. Most are designed to cover many of the costs associated with seeking medical advice, diagnosis, care, or treatment from a veterinarian, including the cost of prescribed drugs.

However, standardized regulations for California do not cover the costs associated with care, and veterinarian clinic’s individually determine what insurance they accept or if they accept insurance at all. Pet insurance is a newly emerging industry, and laws regulating the processes are still in the making. Keep in mind that many pet insurance companies may simply reimburse clientele for the costs and skip working with the pet clinics completely.

Most pet insurance policies cover accidents, behavioral therapy, dental illnesses, cancer, chronic conditions, breed-specific and genetic conditions, illness, and specialty care. Although, most insurance companies will not cover pre-existing conditions, both curable and incurable. Also, most do not cover cosmetic procedures such as declawing, ear cropping, tail dock, DNA testing, cloning, or breeding.

Do dogs really need insurance in California?

In a survey of more than 20,000 pet owners, four out of five said they could not afford a $5,000 veterinarian bill if they did not have pet insurance. Given that just over 40 percent of California homes own a pet, pet insurance is an excellent way to mitigate financial risk. It is similar to auto insurance because it is something you have but hope not to use.

When an unexpected tragedy occurs, you will be compensated 70% to 90% of the expenditures, depending on your plan. In California, pet insurance can assist ensure that your dog or cat receives the care they require. It helps you concentrate on doing the right thing rather than worrying about the costs. Considering veterinarian services for dogs are over 43 percent higher than the national average, pet insurance enables families to help afford their pet’s health.

Additionally, dogs are more likely to experience environmental issues affecting their health in California. For instance, snakes, mountain lions, and coyotes are common in most areas of the state, posing threats to pets. California is also susceptible to earthquakes and wildfires, both of which are threats to a dog’s health. The state also contains over 6,000 toxic plants that pets may ingest and require emergency services.

Injuries are one of the most common claims in California each year, which comes as no surprise. Californians are a burgeoning population, and they take their dogs on their adventures which put the animals at risk for major injuries, such as cranial cruciate ligament rips, which almost always necessitate surgery and rehabilitation time.

Does lifetime pet insurance go up every year?

When their pets are young, the monthly costs are the lowest, encouraging most consumers to sign up for insurance. However, four or five years later, most firms’ rates begin to rise because the dogs are getting older. The price may become expensive sooner or later. Just like with people, you can expect the cost of pet insurance to increase with age.

How much is good pet insurance?

Depending on the type of coverage, insurance rates range from $20 a month up to $46 a month for puppies. The rates change depending on the breed and size of the dog, along with age. However, the national average is $34 for puppies and $35 for dogs, not including deductibles for $5,000 annual coverage maximums. For unlimited coverage, the average for puppies averages $51 per month and $56 for dogs.

How much is dog insurance a month in California?

In general, pet insurance for your dog will cost between $20 and $100 every month. All the prices depend on the amount of coverage before premiums. While you will still have out-of-pocket expenses, they will be much more affordable. The prices vary by insurance company too. Many include a waiting period as well, so check for accident and illness waiting periods before the insurance becomes active. This prevents people from buying insurance on an as-needed basis.

Is medication covered by pet insurance?

Yes, most insurance companies for pets cover some or all of the costs of medicine, including medications for older dogs. However, as older dogs usually require more medicines, the premium prices go up to compensate for the difference to be cost-effective for insurance companies and customers.

Is pet insurance more expensive in California?

Yes, prices are 43.59 percent higher in California than the national average based on a six-month-old pet in comparison to other states. However, costs will go down the younger a pet is as they are less likely to experience health complications.

Is pet insurance regulated in CA?

California was the first state to basic pet insurance requirements back in 2014. AB 2056 mandates that pet insurers disclose basic policy details such as reimbursement benefits and pre-existing condition exclusions. It also mandates that insurance companies provide customers with a 30-day “free look” period during which they can cancel their policy and receive a full refund. According to the CDI, AB 2056 will assist pet owners in making better selections by allowing them to see what they are getting for their money.

As of January 2021, the National Association of Insurance Commissioners’ Pet Insurance Working Group is developing a model law on pet health insurance. Depending on whether and how states implement the new model law, it will likely have an impact on the pet insurance market, as well as how veterinarians handle pet insurance with clients. The NAIC working group is presently developing the draft model, and the final form will most likely not be released to the public until much later.

Is pet insurance required by law in California?

No, the purchase of insurance for pets in California is not a requirement for pet owners. However, it’s a smart purchase as the cost of veterinarian services rises every year and becomes increasingly more unaffordable for the average family. Without insurance, pet owners may not be able to afford life-saving care for their pets.

What California Cities and Counties do the Above Pet Insurance Plans Cover?

• Los Angeles County Pet Insurance
• San Diego County Pet Insurance
• Orange County Pet Insurance
• Riverside County Pet Insurance
• San Bernardino County Pet Insurance
• Santa Clara County Pet Insurance
• Alameda County Pet Insurance
• Sacramento County Pet Insurance
• Contra Costa County Pet Insurance
• Fresno County Pet Insurance
• Los Angeles Pet Insurance
• San Diego Pet Insurance
• San Jose Pet Insurance
• San Francisco Pet Insurance
• Fresno Pet Insurance
• Sacramento Pet Insurance
• Long Beach Pet Insurance
• Oakland Pet Insurance
• Bakersfield Pet Insurance
• Anaheim Pet Insurance
• Santa Ana Pet Insurance
• Riverside Pet Insurance
• Stockton Pet Insurance
• Irvine Pet Insurance
• Chula Vista Pet Insurance
• Fremont Pet Insurance
• San Bernardino Pet Insurance
• Modesto Pet Insurance
• Fontana Pet Insurance
• Santa Clarita Pet Insurance

Which insurance is best for my dog?

Every insurance company offers different benefits and costs; making the right choice depends on individual families and pets. California’s top pet insurance companies include Lemonade, Embrace, Fetch, Figo, Spot, Healthy Paws, Prudent Pet, Trupanion, and ASPCA Pet Health Insurance. However, there are many more options with lesser-known names that may benefit other pets.

The best thing you can do for your pet’s health and your budget is to research each insurance and find out which meets your needs. As some dogs have pre-existing conditions, it could limit the number of options. You also need to consider if the insurance company offers discounts for multiple pets, accidents, illness, wellness care, and preventative care. Other insurances will not cover pets over a certain age limiting the choices even further.

In addition, you will want to know if you are allowed to choose your vet, waiting periods, what the plan does not cover, prescription coverage, deductibles, and the company’s reputation. Some companies may provide less care for emergencies or for long-term illnesses. Your budget will greatly affect your choice of insurance companies for pets.

Which pet insurance is the most reliable in California?

As California now requires certain standards, you can expect most insurance companies in the state. The most reliable companies are Pet’s Best Pet Health Insurance, Lemonade, ASPCA Pet Health Insurance, Embrace, Figo, ManyPets, Nationwide, and TrustedPals. However, the most reliable depends on you and your pet’s unique circumstances.

Why is pet insurance so expensive in California?

Pet insurance has recently become a victim of its own success. The cost of treatment is irrelevant when a pet is insured. This implies that owners can afford better care for their dogs than they could without insurance. With enhanced diagnostic imaging (MRI and CAT scans) and specialty surgical techniques (heart pacemakers, joint replacement surgery, and even artificial limbs), the veterinary business has responded to this demand.

This is an amazing thing for animals, but it is expensive. Because insurance companies are paying, the other end of the equation has risen: pet insurance premiums. After all, insurance firms are businesses that need to cover their costs as well as make a profit. While affordable pet insurance is still available, many owners are unable to afford the monthly charges.

A new breed of veterinarians with improved technology, breakthrough medications, better techniques, and more highly qualified specialists is emerging. Unfortunately, these amazing developments contribute to higher vet expenditures, which must be reflected in higher insurance premiums.
Second, owners have bigger expectations than ever. Of course, greater expectations equal better care for their pet. However, pet insurance premiums are rising. The link is apparent.

Comprehensive and costly diagnostic workups due to high owner expectations and raise costs for pet parents. Veterinarians could reduce the cost of pet insurance by delaying extensive investigations for non-critically ill animals, as many non-insured pets already do. The benefit of early rigorous tests for seemingly minor ailments is that a few major disorders are detected earlier, which would have been missed otherwise.

Fourth, some veterinarians and some pet owners perceive death or euthanasia as a failure. There is a view that life should be preserved at all costs, even if the quality of life is so low that the animal’s wellbeing is compromised and even if the financial cost is enormous. Insurance claims for difficult cases would be decreased if vets and owners were more realistic about what is happening to their animals. Again, when it’s your own pet, it can be very difficult to make the call to say goodbye even when it’s in their best interest.

Which California Pet Insurance Company Does iHeartDogs.com Recommend?

Our recommendation depends very much on your individual situation. You can compare quotes for your dog’s age and your location here. We can report that Trupanion, HealthyPaws, and Pets Best are very popular with iHeartDogs supporters.

What do iHeartDogs Readers Think About Pet Insurance?

More Popular Pet Insurance Resources
Thanks for reviewing our guide to comparing pet insurance brands. Below you find some additional pet insurance resources from iHeartDogs.com

• Compare Pet Insurance Quotes
• A Vet Explains What You Need To Know About Pet Insurance For Your Dog
• If You Don’t Have This Much Money Set Aside In An Emergency Fund, You Probably Need Pet Insurance
• Pet Insurance: Rip-Off Or Life-Saver?
• With Pet Insurance, Your Dog Is 4x More Likely To Survive A Medical Emergency
• Trupanion vs. Pets Best Pet Insurance: In-Depth Comparison

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.