I have been very happy with Trupanion. They are the one company that makes it easy for the veterinary practice to get direct reimbursement… Our client with Trupanion usually can pay us only their portion of that bill, and we get the covered amount directly. We know what their portion is in just a few minutes. The other companies leave the practice much more vulnerable if trying to do this.

Generally, pet owners will have to pay their veterinarian in full, then submit the receipt to insurance for reimbursement. US pet insurance companies will reimburse for covered services and products per their policy regardless of which veterinarian sees your pet - general practice, specialist, or emergency practice. In most cases, you are reimbursed within a week of submitting your claim.

WELLNESS PLANS are NOT insurance. Know what you are getting for your money.

See Pet Insurance Review for comparative information across many companies. Then call those that interest you and get your specific questions answered.

In general, if your pet is exactly average, you will pay a little more over the years in insurance premiums than you will receive in benefits. The insurance company has to cover their marketing and administrative costs. In return you get to spread a lot of your cost out over months and years, protecting yourself from single incidents that can cost upwards of $5000… and even as high as $50,000.

As for whether you need insurance… Can you pay if your pet gets an illness or injury that may cost you $2000? $5000? $10,000? Not everyone places the same value on the cost of treating an animal. Does your answer change if you can spend a small amount monthly, so a $5000 surgery only costs you $900?

Questions to ask before getting a policy:

• What problems will not be covered for my pet based upon age?
• What problems will not be covered for my pet based upon breed?
• What problems will not be covered for my pet based upon previous medical history?
• Do you in any way restrict my choice of veterinary practice?
• How easy is your process to submit a claim?