Insurance for older dogs can be more expensive than plans for younger animals with most insurance companies. Various factors will cause premiums and surcharges to rise and some treatments may be excluded or more costly depending on your dog's condition.
Review Age Limits
Make sure you insure your dog at an early age in order to save money. Some plans have age limits for plans and won't insure dogs over the age of 5, though this varies from company to company.
Plans Specifically For Older Dogs
As a dog ages, insurance premiums usually increase over time. Older dogs need more medications, treatments, and are more likely to suffer from conditions that require veterinarian care than younger dogs. Look for aging pet programs that offer coverage for conditions often seen in older dogs like cataracts, hip dysplasia, and degenerative disc disease. Some insurance companies offer add-ons, riders and extras for these treatments, such as cancer care.
Watch Out For Exclusions
When purchasing insurance it is important to look at any exclusions in the plan. With a young and healthy dog it may not seem like a problem when some treatments are not included in the policy, but planning ahead for potential future illnesses is essential to get the best coverage for your pet's lifetime.