Lifetime pet insurance is a comprehensive policy designed to cover your pet for ongoing or chronic health conditions throughout its life.
Unlike annual policies that reset each year with conditions potentially excluded upon renewal, lifetime insurance provides continuous coverage for any condition diagnosed while the policy is active, as long as the premiums are paid.
Here’s a detailed look at what lifetime pet insurance typically covers.
- Vet costs – Cover for treatment for injury or illness, up to the per condition or per year limit. These limits will reset each year and conditions you’ve previously claimed for will still be covered
- Kennels/cattery costs – Covers boarding costs for your vet if you’ve had to go into hospital
- Third party liability cover – Covers claims against you for loss or damage caused by your pet. It usually only applies to dog insurance and not cats
- Dental cover – but usually only as a result of accident or injury. Routine dental treatment is generally not covered by many policies
- Complimentary therapies, for example acupuncture or hydrotherapy – some policies will cover this if it’s been recommended by your vet
- Lost or stolen pets – Your insurance might cover the cost of advertising a lost pet and pay a proportion of their value if they sadly can’t be found
- Euthanasia – If the worst should happen, pet insurance can cover the cost of your pet being painlessly put to sleep
Veterinary Fees
One of the primary benefits of lifetime pet insurance is coverage for veterinary fees. This includes costs for diagnosing and treating illnesses, accidents, and injuries. It covers a range of medical expenses such as consultations, tests (like X-rays or blood tests), surgery, and post-operative care. Additionally, it may cover treatment for hereditary and congenital conditions that could develop over time, as long as these conditions are not pre-existing.
Chronic and Ongoing Conditions
Lifetime policies are especially beneficial for chronic conditions that require ongoing treatment, like diabetes, arthritis, or allergies. If your pet develops a long-term illness or needs consistent medication, a lifetime policy ensures these conditions remain covered year after year, up to the annual limit specified in the policy. This is one of the key reasons pet owners choose lifetime insurance, as the costs for managing chronic illnesses can add up significantly.
Diagnostic and Specialist Treatments
Advanced treatments, such as MRI scans, CT scans, or consultations with veterinary specialists, are also included under most lifetime pet insurance policies. These specialized services can be crucial in diagnosing complex health issues, and having coverage means pet owners can pursue the best care without worrying about prohibitive costs.
Alternative and Holistic Therapies
Many lifetime pet insurance plans cover alternative therapies, such as physiotherapy, acupuncture, hydrotherapy, or chiropractic care. These treatments are sometimes necessary for rehabilitation or managing pain and can improve your pet’s quality of life. However, these services typically have sub-limits, so it’s important to understand the specifics outlined in your policy.
Behavioral Treatments
Some lifetime policies include coverage for behavioral issues, which may require professional intervention, like training or therapy. Conditions such as severe anxiety, aggression, or compulsive behaviors often need the expertise of a veterinary behaviorist. Coverage for these types of treatments helps manage and modify harmful or concerning behavior in pets.
Dental Coverage
Dental issues are common in pets and can lead to more serious health problems if not treated. Many comprehensive lifetime policies include dental coverage for accidents and illnesses, such as tooth fractures or periodontal disease. Routine dental cleanings may not be covered, so it’s essential to verify the specifics with your insurer.
Prescription Medications
Prescription drugs, whether needed temporarily or long-term, are generally included. This means medications for pain management, antibiotics, or drugs for chronic conditions are covered. Be sure to check for any restrictions or annual limits on medication expenses.
Emergency Care and Hospitalization
Lifetime policies usually cover emergency treatments and hospitalization, ensuring you can seek immediate care if your pet faces a life-threatening situation. This includes emergency vet visits, overnight stays, and any surgeries or treatments necessary to stabilize your pet’s health.
Exclusions and Limitations
While lifetime pet insurance is extensive, it does come with exclusions. Pre-existing conditions, or any health issues your pet had before the policy started, are typically not covered. Additionally, routine and preventive care, such as vaccinations, spaying or neutering, and regular check-ups, are usually excluded. Policies may also have annual limits, either per condition or as an overall cap, so it’s important to understand these limits and adjust your coverage accordingly.
