Common Questions
Get answers to frequently asked questions about pet insurance, coverage options, and what to look out for when choosing a plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to the most common questions about pet insurance coverage and claims.
What does insurance cover?
Coverage varies by plan but includes accidents, illnesses, and sometimes wellness care. I can help you understand exactly what each carrier covers and find the right fit for your pet.
How do I file a claim?
Claims can be submitted directly through your insurance carrier's app or website, or I can help you through the process. Most carriers offer easy online claim submission with quick turnaround times.
What are "Curable Conditions?"
Curable conditions are temporary health issues or injuries that can be fully resolved with treatment. Many insurers will re-cover these conditions if the pet remains symptom-free and treatment-free for a specified period—typically 180 days or one year. Common examples include ear infections, UTIs, acute injuries, and minor ailments like kennel cough.
Can I combine illness and accident plans?
Yes, this can be done and I recommend it. I can help you find the right mix of plans that fit your budget and cover what matters most for your pet.
Do you offer discounts?
Yes, discounts are available for veterans. Many carriers also offer multi-pet discounts and annual payment discounts. Contact me to learn about all available savings.
Top 10 Conditions & Most Susceptible Breeds
Understanding which conditions are most common for specific breeds can help you choose the right coverage. Here are the top conditions and the breeds most at risk.
Skin Allergies
Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, French Bulldogs
Ear Infections
Cocker Spaniels, Basset Hounds, Labrador Retrievers
Gastrointestinal Issues
German Shepherds, Great Danes
Skin Masses/Tumors
Boxers, Golden Retrievers
Arthritis
German Shepherds, Rottweilers, Labrador Retrievers
Dental Disease
Yorkshire Terriers, Dachshunds, toy breeds
UTIs
Bichon Frises, Shih Tzus
Soft Tissue Trauma
Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherds
Heart Disease
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Boxers
Cruciate Ligament (CCL) Tears
Rottweilers, Newfoundlands, Staffordshire Terriers
Bilateral Conditions Warning
Bilateral conditions are a major concern for pet insurance because many providers treat them as a single pre-existing condition. If your dog has an issue on one side before the policy starts, the other side is often excluded.
Cruciate Ligament (CCL) Tears
Rottweilers
40–60% of dogs that tear one CCL will tear the other within 12–15 months.
Hip/Elbow Dysplasia
German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers
Almost always bilateral, though one side may show symptoms before the other.
Cherry Eye
Bulldogs, Cocker Spaniels, Mastiffs
Often occurs in both eyes, either simultaneously or months apart.
Patellar Luxation
Chihuahuas, Miniature Poodles
Frequently bilateral, which may lead to bilateral surgery.
Cataracts/Glaucoma
Cocker Spaniels, Boston Terriers
Highly susceptible to bilateral vision issues.
Crucial Insurance Nuances
Understanding these details can make a big difference in your coverage. These are important considerations when choosing and using pet insurance.
Look-Back Periods
Providers like Pets Best and ASPCA generally require 180 days symptom-free to consider a condition "cured," while Lemonade and Paw Protect may require a full 12 months.
Orthopedic Exclusions
Most insurers specifically exclude knee and ligament conditions (like CCL tears) from ever being considered curable, even if the pet has surgery and makes a full recovery.
Chronic Linkage
If a curable issue (like a UTI) is later determined to be a symptom of a chronic disease (like diabetes), it will be retroactively classified as an incurable pre-existing condition.
Bilateral Impact
If a "curable" condition occurs on one side of the body, some companies may view a subsequent issue on the other side as a recurrence rather than a new event.
Have More Questions?
I'm here to help you navigate the complexities of pet insurance. Reach out anytime for personalized guidance.