Should you get pet insurance? Here's what you need to know

Whether you’re a new pet owner or have had furry companions for years, you want to protect them.  That’s where pet insurance can come in.  

We want to ensure the best possible care for our pets is received throughout their lives, and we cannot predict how much everything that may happen will cost. From unforeseen illnesses to sudden injuries from unexpected accidents or even dental checkups, there are many reasons why you should consider getting pet insurance.   

So, what does pet insurance actually cover, and why do you need it? Our pet insurance expert answers your top questions. 

What does pet insurance cover?

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Pet Insurance can help you prepare for unexpected veterinary costs if your cat or dog becomes injured or sick. 

There are two common types of pet insurance plans. Accident only pet insurance plans provide coverage for veterinary care for injuries caused by accidents including hospitalization, medications, surgery, exams and more. You receive a set annual coverage per year for medically necessary services to treat injuries from one or more accidents. Insurance pays a portion of eligible veterinary costs, which means you pay the remainder in addition to your premiums, and an annual deductible if you file a claim that year. 

Accident & Illness insurance is a popular plan, which is also the most flexible, by providing coverage for veterinary services related to both accidents and illnesses. This plan may include coverage for accidental injuries, in addition to illnesses such as infections, hereditary conditions, and alternative therapy treatment. It allows you to set the annual coverage limit and the amount insurance covers per claim.

What is routine pet coverage?

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Routine pet care, sometimes known as wellness care, can be offered as an optional add-on for some pet insurance plans. It can help cover treatments that are otherwise not covered, including pre-existing conditions. It may also provide supplemental coverage for annual exams, vaccinations, flea and tick prevention, nail trimming, dental treatments, blood profiles and more. 

How do I make an insurance claim?

Pet insurance plans work via reimbursement. When your pet receives treatment for an eligible condition, you pay the veterinarian in full and ensure you receive a valid, paid invoice. The invoice must include an invoice number, your pet’s name, your personal information, and a description of the treatments provided.   

You can send your claim request online through the member portal with your itemized invoices and any medical documentation to assist with your claim. If you don’t submit it online, include the appropriate completed form with your documents and send the paper claim via email, mail or fax. Once the claim is approved, reimbursement may be sent by cheque or direct deposit, based on the claim guidelines found in your insurance policy.   

Why choose Pets Plus Us?

CAA has partnered with Pets Plus Us to offer pet insurance plans that can help you prepare for the unexpected with its flexible, easy-to-understand coverage. Pet Insurance can help you prepare for the costs of eligible veterinary bills and can offer options that fit your pet and your budget. 

Pet insurance is available for all breeds, even for pets with health conditions associated with a specific breed, as long as it’s not pre-existing. All coverage with Pets Plus Us comes with a 4Life Guarantee, meaning once enrolled, the coverage is promised to renew for the pet’s life as long as the premiums are made.  

There are no upper age limits, so your pet isn’t too old to get covered, but getting pet insurance when they are young is a great idea. Plus, you’ll know what’s covered from the beginning. After your pet’s health records are reviewed, Pet Plus Us will tell you if anything specific is not covered upon purchase, which can prevent unexpected surprises later on. 

Plan options through Pets Plus Us include an additional $1,000 in benefits per incident for pet boarding if you are hospitalized, holiday trip cancellation if your pet has a medical emergency, advertising and reward for a lost pet, and euthanasia, cremation or burial. You’ll also be eligible to receive exclusive Blue Ribbon Benefits featuring 24/7 emergency phone lines, including one specific to poison control, for when your regular veterinarian is unavailable.   

Get a quote and keep your pet protected