How Does Pet Insurance Work?

An adorable, sick puppy with an ice bag on his head.

Like human health insurance, pet insurance can help cover the cost of diagnosing and treating a pet’s illness or injury. Depending on the policy, insurers may reimburse 70% to 100% of eligible veterinary expenses after the deductible is met, making unexpected treatments easier to afford.

The cost of coverage depends on several factors, including your pet’s breed, age, health history and the coverage you select. Monthly premiums can range from around $10 for basic coverage to more than $100 for some comprehensive plans, according to the website Find Pet Insurance.

Members of Costco, AARP, AAA and other organizations may also qualify for discounts on select plans, so check your membership benefits before buying.

Comparing Pet Insurance Plans

With so many insurers to choose from, finding the right plan for your furry friend can be a challenge. Websites such as Find Pet Insurance, Pawlicy Advisor and Pet Insurance Gurus explain coverage options and help consumers compare plans and prices. Your veterinarian can also offer guidance.

Searching online for pet insurance brings up a slew of “Best Of” and “Top 10” lists, each with its own methodology. To help narrow the field, we compared several published rankings and identified five companies that consistently earn recognition for coverage, service or overall satisfaction:

ASPCA Pet Health Insurance
Lemonade
Pets Best
Pumpkin
Spot

No single company is right for every pet. Compare coverage, deductibles, reimbursement rates, exclusions and premiums before choosing a plan.

This informative guide from Find Pet Insurance can help:

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