Best Pet Insurance For Vizslas In 2024

Vizslas, adored for their friendly temperament and intelligence, are beloved hunting breeds. Originating from Hungary, they shine in various roles, including pointing, tracking, and hunting, owing to their keen instincts and agility. With their distinct short, dense coat, they showcase a stunning rust color.

Energetic and sociable, Vizslas thrive in active households and relish engaging in outdoor adventures. Their keen sense of smell and exceptional stamina make them outstanding hunting companions. As devoted companions, Vizslas form strong bonds with their families, displaying affectionate and loyal behavior. Renowned for their zestful spirit and adaptability, Vizslas remain cherished breeds worldwide.

If you own a Vizsla, you’re undoubtedly concerned about its health and well-being. As a pure breed, a Vizsla is more likely to suffer from genetic health issues than mixed-breed dogs. Unfortunately, 4 out of 5 pet parents can’t pay for an unexpected $500 veterinary bill out-of-pocket. However, pet insurance will help you reduce your financial risk.

In this review, we’ll look at some of the top pet insurers for Vizslas and help you pick the policy that best meets your needs. You’ll find that pet insurance is much like personal health insurance; it provides better treatment options and limits out-of-pocket costs. But unlike private health insurance, it won’t cost you an arm and a leg.

Common health issues for Vizslas

Purebred dogs, including Vizslas, tend to be prone to health issues. Over the years, some breeders have neglected genetics when breeding Vizslas, creating issues that filter down throughout the Vizsla population. In general, Vizslas are more susceptible to genetic problems than other breeds.

These are some of the most common health issues for Vizslas:

• Hip dysplasia
• Elbow dysplasia
• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
• Epilepsy
• Allergies

Hip Dysplasia:

Hip dysplasia is a common concern in Vizslas, impacting the hip joint’s stability and function. It’s a genetic condition where the hip joint develops abnormally, causing pain, lameness, and reduced mobility. This malformation can lead to arthritis as the dog ages. While it can’t be cured, management includes weight control, exercise modification, anti-inflammatory medication, and possibly surgery. Regular vet check-ups and a healthy lifestyle are vital to mitigate the impact and provide the Vizsla with a good quality of life.

The cost of treating hip dysplasia in dogs can range from $1,200 to $14,000 or more, depending on the severity of the condition, the recommended treatment, and whether one or both hips are affected.

Elbow Dysplasia:

Elbow dysplasia is prevalent in Vizslas, characterized by an abnormality in the elbow joint’s development. It comprises several developmental abnormalities that cause pain, lameness, and limited range of motion. It can be hereditary or caused by rapid growth during puppyhood. Treatment often involves pain management, weight control, physical therapy, and, in severe cases, surgical intervention. Proper care, regular exercise, and early intervention can significantly improve the affected Vizsla’s comfort and mobility.

The cost of treating elbow dysplasia in dogs can range from $1,500 to $4,000 or more, depending on the severity of the condition and the recommended treatment.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA):

Progressive retinal atrophy is a degenerative eye disorder prevalent in Vizslas, causing gradual vision loss and, in severe cases, blindness. It’s an inherited condition where the cells in the retina degenerate, leading to impaired vision and eventual blindness. While there’s no cure for PRA, regular eye check-ups and monitoring can help manage the disease. Responsible breeding practices and routine eye examinations are essential to identify affected dogs and prevent the spread of this condition within the Vizsla population.

The cost of treating PRA in dogs can vary depending on the specific type of PRA and the recommended treatment.

Epilepsy:

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder commonly seen in Vizslas, causing recurrent seizures. These seizures can vary in intensity and duration, affecting the dog’s behavior, consciousness, and muscle control. While the exact cause remains unclear, it often can be managed with medication and lifestyle adjustments. Understanding and monitoring potential triggers, providing a safe environment, and following a veterinarian’s guidance are essential in managing epilepsy in Vizslas and improving their overall quality of life.

Treatment may involve medication, regular check-ups, and monitoring, which can range from $200 to $500 or more per year

Allergies:

Allergies, including food and environmental allergies, are frequent health issues in Vizslas, resulting in itching, skin redness, rashes, and ear infections. Identifying and managing allergens through dietary changes, allergen avoidance, and medication are crucial steps in alleviating discomfort. Regular check-ups with a veterinarian and a tailored approach to manage allergies effectively are essential for the well-being of a Vizsla and to enhance their overall quality of life.

The cost of treating allergies in dogs can vary depending on the specific type of allergy and the recommended treatment. Treatment may involve medication, regular check-ups, and monitoring, which can range from $200 to $1,000 or more per year.

Is pet insurance worth it for Vizslas?

Pet insurance protects against unexpected veterinary bills. Many pet owners pay out-of-pocket for their pet’s medical expenses, but most Americans can’t afford a $1500 emergency vet bill. The right pet insurance can literally be a lifesaver. Having coverage will give you the freedom to make medical decisions for your furry family member based on the quality of life, not finances.

The value of pet insurance is largely based on your expectations. If your pet is currently undergoing treatment for a chronic condition and you would like help with the cost of the treatment, you will likely be disappointed as no company in our review covers preexisting conditions.

But, if you understand your policy and what it does and doesn’t cover and have a policy that fits your budget and needs, you are far more likely to consider the policy worth it.

Average cost of pet insurance for Vizslas

Average cost of typical vet procedures

Average cost of emergency vet procedures

How to find the best pet insurance company for you

The costs and types of pet insurance plans available on the market vary by company, making choosing one over the others challenging. To find the best plan for your pet, consider these tips before applying for coverage:

Check whether your pet is eligible

Puppies and kittens often must be a minimum of 6 to 10 weeks old to be insured, depending on the company. Senior pets may not be eligible for first-time enrollment with some companies, or they may qualify for accident coverage only. Once the pet is enrolled, though, most plans will offer coverage for life as long as you continue paying the premiums.

Research what’s covered

Pet insurance plans typically cover expenses like surgery, hospitalization and medication if your pet gets sick or hurt. However, there are certain things that some companies charge extra for or won’t cover at all. Here are a few examples:

• Exam fees. Say your dog breaks her leg. Some plans will reimburse expenses like X-rays,  surgery and pain medication, but not the vet’s exam fee.
• Alternative treatments and rehabilitation. Some companies include coverage for things like acupuncture and physical therapy in their standard plans. Others charge extra.
• Behavioral therapies. Not all policies cover veterinary treatment for aggression or other behavioral issues.
• Prescription food. Certain plans won’t cover food or supplements at all, even if your vet prescribes them for a covered condition.
• Dental care. Pet insurance plans vary widely when it comes to caring for your pet’s teeth. For example, your policy may not cover dental illnesses such as gingivitis or periodontal disease. Alternatively, it may cover them only if your pet has had a recent tooth cleaning. Some add-on wellness plans pay for cleanings.

Note that pet insurance policies usually won’t cover pre-existing conditions, cosmetic procedures, or breeding expenses.

Decide how much coverage you want

Most pet insurance plans cap the amount they pay out per year, although some have no annual limit. Only you can decide the amount that gives you reasonable peace of mind for paying vet bills.

If your dog or cat is relatively healthy, you might go years without paying for anything but routine care. But an unexpected surgery or serious illness could add up to thousands of dollars in expenses.

Understand reimbursements and deductibles

Most pet insurance plans reimburse you for a percentage of your vet bill. You can generally choose a reimbursement level — such as 70%, 80% or 90% — when you buy the plan.

Other plans pay what the insurance company deems a standard fee for a given treatment, which might be less than what your vet charges. You’d be responsible for the remainder.

Most plans also have a deductible — the dollar amount you pay out of pocket before the policy pays. You can usually choose from a range of deductibles, such as $100, $250, or more. Some plans apply deductibles to each injury or illness that’s treated. Most have you pay the deductible every year.

Generally, the lower your out-of-pocket costs are, the more you’ll pay for coverage. Alower deductible and higher reimbursement rate can lead to a higher premium, while a higher deductible and lower reimbursement rate can mean a lower premium.

Check waiting periods

Most plans include short waiting periods after you purchase the policy for general accident and illness coverage, such as 14 days. Your plan won’t pay for any treatment during the waiting period.

Some plans include longer waiting periods for coverage of certain conditions, such as cruciate ligament injuries — a common orthopedic problem for dogs. The cruciate ligaments help stabilize the knee; when injured, it can make it difficult for a dog to walk.

Examine extra costs

Some pet insurance companies offer coverage for routine services such as well visits and vaccinations. While this may sound tempting, do the math to determine whether it’s worth the extra cost. Compare the annual price of the wellness insurance plan with the amount you’d pay each year on your own for services the plan covers. Read the details because the items covered for “wellness” vary by pet insurance company.

Compare Quotes

The cost of insurance varies by carrier and the amount of coverage. Some pet insurers offer discounts; you might be able to save money by insuring more than one pet, for example. But a discount doesn’t guarantee the plan is the best deal.

The only way to find the best insurance for your pet is to dig into the details and get quotes for several plans. Make sure you’re making a fair comparison with similar coverage amounts, deductibles, and reimbursement limits.

Factors that impact cost of your pet insurance policy

Similar to your health insurance plan, your pet insurance price is going to vary depending on certain factors, such as:

• Where you live. Pet insurance companies take the cost of vet care in your area into account when pricing your policy.
• Your pet’s age. Because older animals are more likely to have health problems, their premiums are generally higher.
• Your pet’s breed. Certain breeds are more prone to health issues. For example, bulldogs and Boston terriers often develop breathing problems, while German Shepherds and other large breeds are more likely than others to get hip dysplasia. These potential problems may be reflected in the cost of your pet insurance plan.
• Your deductibles, coinsurance and coverage limits. The less you’re willing to pay out of pocket for your pet’s care, the higher your pet insurance premium will be. For instance, choosing a $100 deductible instead of a $500 one means your plan will start reimbursing you sooner for your pet’s care — but it’ll cost you more in premiums.