Pet Insurance

Natalie - interesting! Are they introducing the new plan in 2011?

I think so, yes. Ours was set to renew in November and this was an additional option.

Natalie

I've been thinking about getting insurance for Jasper and Buster and ran across a company called Trupanion. You can get a quote and they provide comparisons for five or six major pet insurance companies, including VIP. I was not aware that most companies increase your premiums as your dog ages. :mad:

http://www.trupanionpetinsurance.com...FY64KgodzlNkng

One thing I've learned from my researches so far is to investigate very carefully how the various companies handle chronic conditions. I'm now leaning towards PetPlan because they place no separate limits on chronic condition coverage, providing the condition wasn't preexisting before the coverage started. VPI, for example, in some states, limits payout for chronic conditions to 25% of the annual max, and we all know how the expenses for Cushing's can mount. The plan profiles at http://www.pet-insurance-university.com/ are very helpful in sorting this out. I'm leaning against any company that imposes a lifetime maximum, rather than an annual maximum.

Carin

Hi -

I know this thread is older, but I wanted to chime in and say that I have had VPI for my two dogs since they were 2 and 1, and it has more than paid for itself. Although there is no "perfect" plan out there, it seemed to be more user-friendly, easier to understand, and pays out fairly well.

I never had the routine coverage, either, but I did get a $12,000 per year cancer rider which has brought a lot of piece of mind.

Good luck!

Lynne, Clyde & Bailey

Thanks to everyone who weighed in. I ended up getting Harry (my younger dog) PetPlan insurance, Silver Plan, with a $12,000/yr limit. Cancer and hereditary, genetic, and chronic conditions are covered as part of the plan as long as they are not preexisting. Now let's hope it works like bringing an umbrella!

Carin

I had VPI for my Mandy during her entire lifetime...boy, it's gone up in price! (was like $50 back in 1997, now over $300...I had just renewed in August)

others hit on its weakness with re-occurring chronic conditions; they would not pay me for a 2nd ACTH test one year later! kind of ridiculous....certain diseases require repeated testing....

but, it did come in handy for her 2 cruciate ligament ruptures....cost $3200 to fix her up and I got $1600 back.

I will shop around a bit this time before choosing a plan for Pebbles.

Jeff & Angel Mandy

I'm just looking into this. www.petinsurancereview.com has comprehensive comparisons. They will also get quotes for you.
-Susan

Thanks, Susan. I used that site, and I ended up going with Petplan. I haven't had any claims so far, but am feeling good about having the insurance.

Carin

Hi -

I have had VPI for Bailey and Clyde for the last 13 years, and it has been more than worth it.

I have the non-routine coverage and a cancer rider of $10,000 per year.

I'm happy to answer any questions.

Lynne, Bailey & Angel Clyde