As pet owners, we know that caring for our furry friends involves not only providing love and attention but also taking care of their health. One aspect of pet health care that can often result in significant expenses is vaccinations. Depending on your pet’s age and breed, you could potentially spend hundreds of dollars each year on their scheduled vaccines and the appointments necessary to administer them. However, with the right pet insurance plan, you may be able to get some (or all) of these costs covered. In this article, we will explore how you can get routine vaccinations covered through a pet insurance plan.
Does pet insurance cover vaccinations?
Your traditional pet insurance policy will not cover vaccinations, as they’re considered routine care. Most pet insurance plans only cover illnesses and injuries. This means that preventative visits and care are out-of-pocket expenses for pet owners who only have standard insurance plans. If you want pet insurance that covers vaccinations, as well as routine care such as annual exams, dental cleanings, spay/neuter surgery, and the like, you will need to purchase a wellness plan instead of (or in addition to) a standard pet insurance policy.
Even with wellness plans, there may be limits on the type or number of vaccines covered each year. However, the coverage these plans do offer can help pay for vaccines, as well as many of your pet’s other preventative care costs. Pet wellness plans typically operate on a reimbursement model. This means that pet owners will usually pay their vet directly for the visit, then file a claim for reimbursement from the insurance company.
For instance, let’s say your wellness plan offers vaccine coverage for up to $75 per shot, with an annual plan maximum of $500. If you have four vaccines administered at $60 each, your plan would reimburse you the full $240. You would still have up to $260 remaining in your plan for other covered preventative treatments, like flea control or heartworm prevention.
What vaccinations are covered with pet wellness plans?
In your pet’s first year of life, your vet will likely recommend up to four core vaccines: three doses of DAP and one of rabies. They may also suggest a number of other lifestyle-related vaccines, such as those for Lyme, Bordetella, Leptospirosis, or Canine Influenza. Most of these vaccines are highly recommended by veterinarians, especially if your dog spends time outdoors, is ever around other animals, or gets boarded when you travel. In some cases, certain vaccines may even be required by your state or local government. You can also expect some vaccines to be required before obtaining certain pet services, such as grooming or boarding.
Pet wellness plans and their vaccination benefits
While many pet insurance companies only offer accident and illness coverage, some also offer optional pet wellness plans. These plans are often available as an add-on to an existing insurance plan, though standalone coverage may also be possible. Wellness plans typically offer coverage for routine care, such as vaccines.
Lemonade
Lemonade stands out for its affordable policies and digital experience. Reimbursement for vaccinations is available through Lemonade’s preventative care package. This is an optional add-on to a standard accident and illness pet insurance policy. The amount you’ll be reimbursed depends on the reimbursement rate you select for your pet insurance plan. The higher your reimbursement rate, the more Lemonade covers. What sets Lemonade apart from competitors is its focus on using technology to enhance the customer experience. The company’s user-friendly app allows for quick claims processing, oftentimes within minutes, making it convenient for pet owners.
Spot
Spot offers one of the most customizable pet insurance policies in the industry. You can select between several deductibles, reimbursement rates, and annual coverage limits to find a policy that protects you and your pet. All policies include two optional preventative care plans. Here’s the vaccination breakdown for both plans.
Embrace
Embrace provides comprehensive pet protection, including an optional wellness plan that covers vaccinations and a long list of other preventative care items. The Wellness Rewards program enables you to receive reimbursement for routine care such as check-ups, dental care, and vaccinations, providing a well-rounded approach to your pet’s health. Unlike other companies, Embrace lets you choose how to spend your allowance. There are no per-item limits or excluded vaccinations. All policyholders have access to a free 24/7 pet helpline.
FAQs
Q: Can I get coverage for vaccinations with my standard pet insurance policy?
A: No, vaccinations are typically not covered under standard pet insurance policies. You would need to purchase a wellness plan or a policy that specifically covers routine care, including vaccinations.
Q: Are there limits on the number or type of vaccines covered by wellness plans?
A: Yes, there may be limits on the number or type of vaccines covered by wellness plans. It’s important to review the details of the plan to understand what is covered and any limitations that may apply.
Q: Can I get reimbursement for other preventative care treatments through wellness plans?
A: Yes, wellness plans often cover a range of preventative care treatments, in addition to vaccinations. These may include annual exams, dental cleanings, spay/neuter surgery, and more.
Conclusion
Investing in pet insurance can provide peace of mind knowing that you’re prepared for unexpected veterinary expenses. While routine vaccinations are typically not covered by standard pet insurance policies, adding a wellness plan to your coverage can help offset the costs of these important preventive measures. When choosing a pet insurance provider, consider their wellness plan options and the coverage they offer for vaccinations and other routine care. By selecting the right plan, you can ensure your pet receives the necessary vaccinations without breaking the bank.
