All dog medical insurance companies allow you to choose any veterinarian in your area. Veterinarians do not touch an insurance claim at all. In fact, they do not know you have an insurance policy.
Pet insurance companies require you to pay the veterinary bill in full, mail them a copy of your receipt from the veterinary office and they'll later reimburse you. Typically, it takes seven to fourteen days for the insurance company's check to arrive.
Every dog medical insurance plan is different. What they cover depends on the plan you purchase and the company you choose.
Kroger PetFirst Health Care
Kroger's dog medical insurance plan provides benefits for:
- Accidents
- Illness
- Routine Care (with Basic or Preferred Plans)
Veterinary Pet Insurance (VPI)
VPI offers a Standard Plan or Superior Plan. Their plans cover:
- Accidents
- Cancer
- Hospitalization
- Illness
- Prescriptions
- Surgery
- X-rays
Well Care Protection adds reimbursement for flea protection, heartworm testing spaying/neutering and vaccinations. The Cancer Rider doubles the amount of coverage provided to dogs diagnosed with six forms of cancer: Intestinal, Leukemia, Lung, Lymphosarcoma, Mast Cell Tumor and Thyroid.
Things Pet Insurance Does Not Cover
Dog medical insurance rarely covers pre-existing conditions.
A purebred dog genetically disposed to certain conditions, such as Dachshunds and hip problems, often receive insurance plans with limitations on claims for genetic disorders.
Ailments caused by racing, dog fights or guard dog duties are not covered.
Many policies require six months of continued coverage before they will pay a claim.