This content is sponsored by MOAA Insurance Plans.
Pet owners usually don’t use the words “vet” and “inexpensive” in the same sentence, and for good reason: emergency surgery to remove a sock lodged in a dog’s intestine or a cat with a urinary tract obstruction can quickly run into thousands of dollars.*
Unexpected vet visits can derail well-planned budgets. That’s why many dog and cat owners are turning to pet insurance for the same reasons they insure themselves: 1) it keeps quality care within reach and 2) it helps keep financial goals intact.
3 Tips When Shopping for Coverage
Here are three considerations when you’re shopping for coverage:
1. Service and Claims. How are you paid? Most plans typically require you to pay your provider, and then get reimbursed. Be aware that you—not your vet—will be required to file the claims.
2. Wellness vs. Accident Benefits. Do you want either, or both? Accident only plans are less expensive and help cover costly eligible emergencies, like poisoning, broken bones, and hospitalizations. Wellness plans can include annual exams and core vaccinations.
3. Deductible options. Just like human health insurance, expect deductibles, co-pays and out-of-pocket expenses. Your premium will depend on which coverage you choose.
TIP: Pre-existing conditions are not covered. That’s why if you’re considering pet insurance, the younger you start with your pet, the better. If your pet does have pre-existing conditions, accident only coverage is still a valuable option.
How Pet Insurance Is Priced
Premiums will be based on your location and your pet type (dog or cat), age, and breed. For example, cats are generally less expensive than dogs. Among dogs, a Rottweiler—prone to hip and eye disorders—will be more expensive to insure than an Australian Shepherd.**
Like other family members, pets get sick or hurt, too. It’s not always prudent to tie up cash in a dedicated account to cover emergency pet care (there’s no HSA or FSA benefits like your own health insurance may offer). Pet insurance may be the right answer for your family.
As a member of MOAA, you can plan for pet care and emergencies with Pets Best insurance for your dog or cat. Accident only plans start at $6 a month for cats and $9 a month for dogs.*** Plus, you can seek treatment for your pet at any licensed veterinarian in the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico, it’s an ideal plan if you travel.
Why Choose Pets Best?
- Reimbursed up to 90% of eligible costs****
- Use any licensed vet in the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico
- No upper age limits—even seniors are welcome
- 24/7 Pet Helpline available to policyholders
- Easy claims processing and payment
For more information on coverage options and exclusive member-only pricing, visit the MOAA Pet Insurance Page or call 1-877-934-9423 and use referral code MOAA.
*-WebMD, “What to Know About Costs of Emergency Vet Care.” https://www.webmd.com/pets/what-to-know-costs-emergency-veterinary-care. Viewed 1.26.24.
**-Money, “the Most Expensive Dog Breeds to Insure.” https://money.com/dog-insurance-for-popular-breeds/. Viewed 1.26.24
***-Accident only plans cost $6/month for cats and $9/month for dogs. $7/month for cats and $10/month for dogs in WA. Taxes may be applied.
****-Select a plan that reimburses 70%, 80%, or 90% of the cost of eligible veterinary treatment. Limited to covered expenses. Terms and conditions apply. See policy for details.
Pet insurance coverage offered and administered by Pets Best Insurance Services, LLC is underwritten by American Pet Insurance Company, a New York insurance company headquartered at 6100 4th Ave. S. Suite 200 Seattle, WA 98108, or Independence American Insurance Company, a Delaware insurance company located at 11333 N. Scottsdale Rd, Ste. 160, Scottsdale, AZ 85254. Pets Best Insurance Services, LLC (CA agency #0F37530) is a licensed insurance agency located at 10840 Ballantyne Commons Parkway, Charlotte, NC 28277. Each insurer has sole financial responsibility for its own products. Please refer to your declarations page to determine the underwriter for your policy. Terms and conditions apply. See your policy for details.