The best way to get the right price on pet insurance is to compare pet insurance quotes from multiple insurers.
But price shouldn’t be your only consideration. Many pet insurance companies offer other perks and benefits that can be beneficial to the care and well-being of your furry friend. Here are some things you can do to find insurance that offers the benefits you want or need.
Look for insurers that offer a 24/7 animal line
Pet parents know that accidents can happen at any time. You don’t always know the best course of action when trying to care for your pet. For this reason, some insurers offer 24/7 veterinary helplines to connect you with veterinarians who can answer care questions regardless of the time of day. Choosing a pet plan with 24/7 Pet Helpline gives you peace of mind.
Compare waiting times
The waiting period is how long you have to wait for your coverage to take effect. The length of time varies by insurance company. For example, Embrace has a two-day waiting period for accidents, while TrustedPals has a 14-day waiting period for accidents. Because emergencies happen when you least expect it, it’s important to choose a short waiting period.
Some pet plans apply a longer waiting period for certain circumstances – usually six months to a year. For example, Pets Best has a six-month waiting period for cruciate ligament cases. If it’s common for your pet to have this type of problem, you may want to avoid pet plans with extended waiting periods.
Look for regular health coverage
Standard health coverage pays for preventive care, such as vaccinations and health exams. Not every pet insurance company offers standard health coverage. Whether you want preventative or routine care covered, it’s important to find a pet insurance company that offers a health plan.
Ask about discounts
Many pet insurance companies offer discounts, including a multi-pet discount when insuring more than one pet. Some offer military discounts or employee discounts. Asking about discount opportunities can help you compare insurers and find the most affordable coverage.
Ask your vet about paying directly
Usually, when you file a pet insurance claim, you must pay the full balance up front before the insurance company will pay. However, companies like Trupanion pay the veterinarian directly. Direct payment procedures vary by insurance, so it’s important to find out if your veterinarian is willing or able to accept direct payments. For example, Trupanion wants your veterinarian to have software that allows you to pay your veterinarian directly