Best Pet Insurance For Mastiffs In 2024

It’s worrying to learn that 80% of pet owners are unprepared for a surprise $500 vet bill. This is where pet insurance steps in, offering a financial buffer.

In this guide, we’ll look at the top pet insurance options for Mastiff to help you find the best plan for your needs. Similar to health insurance, pet coverage enhances treatment opportunities while controlling expenses.

Average Cost Of Pet Insurance For Mastiffs

Average Cost Of Typical Vet Procedures

Common Health Issues For Mastiffs

Among purebred dogs, Mastiff are particularly susceptible to genetic health issues. In some cases, breeders may have overlooked these genetic concerns, contributing to widespread health challenges in the Mastiff breed. Compared to other breeds, Mastiff are more likely to suffer from genetic conditions. Common health issues include:

• Cancer (Oral Melanoma, Mast Cell Tumors)
• Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS)
• Patellar Luxation
• Hip Dysplasia, Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease
• Corneal Ulcers, Entropion, Dry Eye
• Skin Fold Dermatitis, Infections

Average Cost Of Emergency Vet Procedures

Is Pet Insurance Worth It For Mastiffs?

Pet insurance protects against unexpected veterinary costs. While many pet owners can manage their pet’s medical bills, a significant portion of Americans struggle with a $1,500 emergency charge. The right pet insurance provides a safety net, enabling you to prioritize your furry friend’s health over financial constraints. The value of pet insurance is often determined by your expectations.

If your pet has a chronic condition and you’re looking for help with treatment costs, you might find yourself disappointed since no companies in our review cover pre-existing conditions. However, if you understand your policy and its coverage scope and ensure it aligns with your financial situation, you’re likely to see it as a worthwhile investment.

How To Find The Best Pet Insurance Company For You

Pet insurance plans vary widely in terms of costs and options, which can make it hard to choose the most appropriate one. To find the best plan for your pet, keep these considerations in mind before making your final decision:

Check Whether Your Pet Is Eligible

Generally, young puppies and kittens must be at least 6 to 10 weeks old to qualify for insurance, depending on the company. Some providers may limit initial enrollment for senior pets or restrict coverage to accidents only. Once your pet is insured, most plans ensure lifelong coverage as long as you keep up with premium payments.

Research What’s Covered

Typically, pet insurance plans cover surgery, hospitalization, and medication expenses for sick or injured pets. However, some companies may charge extra for certain services or not cover them at all. Here are a few examples:

• Exam fees: If your dog breaks a leg, some plans might pay for X-rays, surgery, and pain relief but may not cover the veterinarian’s examination fee.
• Alternative treatments and rehab: Some plans include coverage for alternative treatments, such as acupuncture and physical therapy, while others might require an additional fee.
• Behavioral therapies: Not all plans provide coverage for treatment of behavioral problems, such as aggression.
• Prescription food: Certain plans may not cover food or supplements prescribed by a vet for a covered issue.
• Dental care: Pet insurance varies in dental coverage. Some may not cover issues like gum disease or tooth problems, while others might depend on recent dental cleanings. Some wellness add-ons may help cover cleanings. Also, remember that pet insurance typically does not cover pre-existing conditions, cosmetic procedures, or breeding costs.

Decide How Much Coverage You Want

While the majority of pet insurance plans include a cap on annual payouts, some provide unlimited coverage. It’s up to you to determine the amount that allows you to feel secure about potential vet costs. If your dog or cat is in good health, you might go for years with minimal expenses beyond routine checkups. However, unanticipated surgeries or serious illnesses can result in veterinary bills that run into the thousands.

Understand Reimbursements And Deductibles

In the pet insurance field, most plans offer to reimburse a portion of your veterinary costs. When you sign up, you can typically choose a reimbursement level, like 70%, 80%, or 90%. However, some plans set a specific amount for certain treatments, which might be less than your vet’s fees, meaning you’ll have to cover the difference.

Almost all plans also require a deductible, which is the upfront cost you pay before your insurance kicks in. You can often select different deductible amounts, such as $100 or $250. Some plans require a separate deductible for each health issue, while most only need it once a year.

In general, if you opt for a lower deductible with higher reimbursement, you’ll pay higher premiums, whereas a higher deductible with lower reimbursement will result in lower premiums.

Check Waiting Periods

Insurance plans typically include a short waiting period after purchase, typically around 14 days, before providing comprehensive coverage for accidents and illnesses. During this time, treatments are not covered. Longer waiting periods may apply to specific conditions such as cruciate ligament injuries, which affect a dog’s knee stability and movement.

Examine Extra Costs

A few pet insurance firms provide coverage for regular services such as check-ups and vaccinations. While this may sound appealing, it’s important to evaluate if the additional cost is justified. Compare the yearly cost of the wellness insurance plan to your typical annual expenditure on these services. Make sure to review the specifics carefully, as definitions of “wellness” can differ among pet insurance providers.

Compare Quotes

Pet insurance costs are determined by the provider and the level of coverage offered. Certain insurers offer discounts for insuring multiple pets, which could save you money. However, discounts alone don’t guarantee the best choice. To find the most suitable pet insurance, it’s important to delve into the details and collect quotes from various plans. Make sure you compare them objectively, taking into account coverage levels, deductibles, and reimbursement limits.

Factors That Impact Cost Of Your Pet Insurance Policy

Just as with human health insurance, pet insurance costs can vary due to several factors, including:

• Location: Insurers take local veterinary care prices into account when determining your policy’s premium.
• Pet’s Age: Older pets tend to have more health issues, leading to increased premiums.
• Pet’s Breed: Certain breeds are more susceptible to health problems. For example, bulldogs and Boston terriers commonly experience respiratory issues, while larger breeds like Pugs have a higher chance of developing hip dysplasia. These breed-related concerns can impact your insurance costs.
• Deductibles, Coinsurance, and Coverage Limits: If you prefer to pay less out-of-pocket for your pet’s care, your insurance premiums will be higher. For instance, if you choose a $100 deductible rather than a $500 one, you’ll receive quicker reimbursements, but your premiums will increase.