If you’re a dog owner whose pet has a pre-existing medical condition, you might be wondering if you’re still eligible for pet insurance. The good news is that there are pet insurance providers that do offer coverage for pre-existing conditions and this is important due to the potential cost of medical cover and veterinary bills.
A pre-existing medical condition for a dog refers to any health issue or illness that the dog had prior to obtaining a pet insurance policy or seeking veterinary care. These conditions could include chronic diseases, congenital disorders, allergies, orthopedic problems, or any other ongoing health concern. It is important to disclose any pre-existing conditions to your veterinarian or pet insurance provider to ensure appropriate care and coverage.
At Spaniel Ace we used pet insurance extensively in trying to care for our cavalier king charles spaniel and the pre-existing cover from Pet Plan was important to enable us to provide continuing support.
In short always read the small print of any pet insurance policy to make sure you know what is covered to give you peace of mind.
How to reduce the cost of pet insurance for pre-existing medical conditions?
In our experience, it is possible to take out a lifetime insurance cover and we leveraged this via Pet Plan Covered for Life Plan, for our cavalier king charles spaniel as soon as we got her as a puppy. This means you can claim for the same condition as long as you renew the policy. Each year it reset so for example £7k vet bills were covered. With Petplan essential cover after the 12 month period you have claimed for a medical condition it won’t cover for the same condition.
We understand this means a higher monthly cost up to £50 per month but this can save money over the life of your pet if they develop more complex medical conditions (we experienced this).
Comparison websites such as Moneysupermarket and Gocompare can help you compare many pet insurers quickly to save money.
Should I disclose pre-existing medical conditions to my pet insurer?
Disclosing pre-existing conditions of pets to both veterinarians and insurance providers is of paramount importance for several key reasons. Firstly, it enables veterinarians to provide the most effective treatment plan, taking into account the animal’s medical history. It also helps to prevent complications arising from the interaction of new medications or procedures with the pre-existing condition. Furthermore, complete disclosure is vital for pet insurance claims. Insurance providers base coverage and policy terms on the health condition of the pet at the time of policy purchase. Concealing any pre-existing conditions may lead to a rejection of claims, or even a cancellation of the policy, creating unnecessary financial burdens for the pet owner. Honesty and transparency, therefore, are crucial in ensuring the best care for pets and the most comprehensive coverage from insurance providers.
What counts as pre-existing medical conditions for my dog?
Chronic Conditions:
Chronic diseases in dogs can manifest in various forms, ranging from cardiovascular disorders to endocrine abnormalities. For example, heart diseases like congestive heart failure, where the heart’s ability to pump blood effectively is compromised over time, is a common chronic condition in dogs. Moreover, endocrine disorders such as diabetes mellitus, where the dog’s body is unable to regulate blood sugar levels appropriately, also fall under the category of chronic diseases. Other examples could include chronic kidney disease, characterized by progressive loss of kidney function, and osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease causing loss of mobility and persistent pain
Bi-Lateral Conditions:
Bilateral conditions refer to issues that affect both sides of the body or organ systems. In dogs, examples of bilateral conditions could include hip dysplasia, a common genetic disorder affecting both hip joints, resulting in pain and reduced mobility. Another example involves cataracts, which often develop in both eyes, affecting the clarity of vision. Similarly, bilateral ear infections are quite common in dogs, particularly breeds with long, floppy ears – all spaniel breeds! These conditions demonstrate how health issues can simultaneously impact both sides of a dog’s body
Historic Conditions:
Historic conditions refer to past health issues that may no longer actively affect the pet but are crucial for understanding the pet’s overall health history. For instance, a dog might have had a bout of pancreatitis in the past. While this condition may have been successfully treated and is no longer active, it is still a part of the dog’s medical history and could potentially influence future health issues. Similarly, past injuries such as a broken bone that healed or a surgical procedure like removal of a benign tumor also fall under historic conditions. Canine distemper is another example; if a dog survived this viral disease, it’s considered a historic condition. These instances underline the importance of keeping a comprehensive record of a pet’s past health issues, even if they no longer pose an immediate concern
Congenital Conditions:
Congenital conditions in dogs are health issues that are present at birth, often resulting from genetic factors. Some breeds have a higher predisposition to certain congenital conditions than others. For instance, brachycephalic breeds like Bulldogs and Pugs are more prone to Brachycephalic Syndrome, a condition characterized by shortness of breath due to their uniquely structured noses and throats. Another example is Hip Dysplasia, which is quite common in large breed dogs such as German Shepherds and Labrador Retrievers but also Spaniels. This condition affects the hip joint, resulting in pain and limping. Heart defects, such as Patent Ductus Arteriosus, are also examples of congenital conditions found in dogs, affecting breeds like the Miniature Poodle and the German Shepherd. These congenital conditions underscore the importance of responsible breeding practices and thorough health screenings
Can I get cover for incurable pre-existing medical conditions for my dog?
Pre-existing conditions are typically excluded from coverage, so it’s essential to disclose any pre-existing conditions before purchasing a policy to avoid unpleasant surprises when you file a claim. By understanding which conditions are considered pre-existing, you can make an informed decision to ensure your pet has the best possible coverage for their individual needs.
Best pet Insurance providers for pre-existing medical conditions cover?
Pet insurance policies often have stipulations regarding pre-existing conditions, which may or may not be covered depending on the specific terms and conditions of the policy. Insurance companies such as More Than, Animal Friends, and Lifetime Pet Cover offer coverage for certain pre-existing conditions, provided they’ve been dormant for a minimum period, usually around two years. To ensure comprehensive coverage, it’s essential for pet owners to disclose all pre-existing conditions to their chosen insurance provider. Non-disclosure can potentially lead to denied claims or policy cancellation. Hence, full transparency benefits both the pet’s health and the owner’s financial stability.
Best Pet Insurers for lifetime cover
When it comes to lifetime cover pet insurance in the UK, several providers hold strong reputations for comprehensive policies and reliable service. Petplan is renowned for its excellent customer service and offers diverse coverage options, making it one of the top choices. John Lewis Finance Pet Insurance provides a high level of veterinary fees and also covers older pets, making it a trustworthy choice for long-term coverage. More Than is another prominent provider offering exhaustive lifetime policies that include pre-existing conditions, given they’ve remained dormant for at least two years. Animal Friends, known for its charitable giving, also offers lifetime policies with competitive coverage. Lastly, Lifetime Pet Cover is worth considering for its flexible and comprehensive lifetime policies. As always, pet owners should carefully review policy details and consult with providers to select the best lifetime coverage for their pets
