Best Pet Insurance For Afghan Hounds In 2024

A surprising 80% of pet owners aren’t ready to handle an unexpected $500 vet bill. Pet insurance fills this gap by offering a financial safety net.

In this review, we’ll look at the top pet insurance options for Afghan Hounds, helping you find a policy that suits your requirements. Pet insurance, similar to health insurance, offers better care options and caps out-of-pocket costs.

Average Cost Of Pet Insurance For Afghan Hounds

Average Cost Of Typical Vet Procedures

Average Cost Of Emergency Vet Procedures

Is Pet Insurance Worth It For Afghan Hounds?

Pet insurance acts as a buffer against unforeseen veterinary expenses. While many pet parents manage their pet’s medical costs, a notable number of Americans find it difficult to handle a $1,500 emergency vet bill. The right pet insurance provides financial protection, allowing you to prioritize your pet’s health rather than worrying about costs.

The variations in expenses and coverage options across pet insurance plans can make it difficult to choose the right one for your needs. To help you select the best plan for your pet, consider these important points before making a decision:

The value of pet insurance largely depends on your expectations. If your pet is currently being treated for a chronic condition and you expect financial support, you might feel disappointed since no insurers we reviewed cover pre-existing conditions. However, if you grasp your policy’s coverage and ensure it aligns with your budget, you’re likely to see it as a beneficial investment.

Common Health Issues For Afghan Hounds

Afghan Hounds, like many purebred dogs, are prone to breed-specific health issues that often stem from genetic factors. In some cases, breeders may not have given enough attention to genetics, resulting in health problems that are more widespread within the Afghan Hound breed. Compared to other breeds, Afghan Hounds are more susceptible to genetic health concerns. Here are some of the most common ones:

• 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

How To Find The Best Pet Insurance Company For You

The variations in expenses and coverage options across pet insurance plans can make it difficult to choose the right one for your needs. To help you select the best plan for your pet, consider these important points before making a decision:

Check Whether Your Pet Is Eligible

Typically, puppies and kittens must be at least 6 to 10 weeks old to qualify for pet insurance, depending on the company. Some insurers may not allow senior pets for initial enrollment or may only offer accident coverage. Nonetheless, once your pet is covered, most plans guarantee lifelong coverage if you keep paying the premiums.

Research What’s Covered

Pet insurance generally covers costs associated with surgeries, hospitalizations, and medications for sick or injured pets. However, some specific services may incur additional charges or not be covered at all. Here are a few examples:

• Exam fees: If your dog suffers a broken leg, some plans may cover X-rays, surgery, and pain relief but might not include the veterinarian’s examination fee.
• Alternative treatments and rehab: Some plans may include coverage for alternative therapies like acupuncture and physical therapy, while others might charge extra.
• Behavioral therapies: Not all plans cover treatments for behavioral issues such as aggression.
• Prescription food: Certain plans might exclude food or supplements prescribed by a vet for a covered issue.
• Dental care: There can be significant differences in dental coverage among pet insurance plans. Some may not cover conditions like gum disease or tooth problems, while others might depend on recent dental cleanings. Some wellness add-ons might cover dental cleanings as well. Also, keep in mind that most pet insurance policies do not cover pre-existing conditions, cosmetic procedures, or breeding expenses.

Decide How Much Coverage You Want

Most pet insurance plans impose an annual payout limit, though some do not have such caps. You are responsible for selecting a coverage amount that gives you peace of mind regarding veterinary expenses. If your dog or cat is healthy, you might go for years without incurring costs beyond regular checkups. However, unexpected surgeries or major illnesses can lead to vet bills that climb into the thousands.

Understand Reimbursements And Deductibles

In the realm of pet insurance, most plans will reimburse part of your veterinary expenses. When you purchase a plan, you typically have the option to select a reimbursement level, such as 70%, 80%, or 90%. On the other hand, some plans stick to set fees for specific treatments, which might be less than what your vet charges, leaving you to cover the additional cost.

Nearly all plans also have a deductible—the upfront amount you pay before the plan starts covering costs. You usually have the choice of different deductibles, like $100, $250, or more. Some plans apply the deductible for each issue your pet has, while most just require it to be paid once a year.

Generally, if you choose a lower deductible with higher reimbursement, your premiums will be higher. But if you select a higher deductible with lower reimbursement, your premiums will be lower.

Check Waiting Periods

Following the purchase of a policy, there’s usually a short waiting period of approximately 14 days before full coverage for accidents and illnesses begins. During this time, treatments are not covered. Longer waiting periods may be applicable for certain conditions such as cruciate ligament injuries, which affect a dog’s knee stability and movement.

Examine Extra Costs

Some pet insurance firms include coverage for regular services such as check-ups and vaccinations. While this might be appealing, it’s essential to assess whether the extra cost is worthwhile. Compare the annual cost of the wellness insurance plan to what you usually pay for these services annually. Ensure you review the specifics, as definitions of “wellness” can vary among different pet insurance providers.

Compare Quotes

The cost of pet insurance can differ depending on the provider and the coverage options available. Some insurers offer discounts for insuring multiple pets, which may result in cost savings. However, discounts alone do not necessarily mean it’s the best plan. To find the right pet insurance, it’s essential to thoroughly research and obtain quotes from different plans. Ensure your comparison is fair, taking into account coverage levels, deductibles, and reimbursement limits.

Factors That Impact Cost Of Your Pet Insurance Policy

Similar to health insurance, pet insurance costs can fluctuate due to specific factors, such as:

• Location: Insurers take into account local veterinary care costs when determining your policy’s price.
• Pet’s Age: Older pets are often more prone to health issues, resulting in higher premiums.
• Pet’s Breed: Certain breeds may be more susceptible to health problems. For example, bulldogs and Boston terriers frequently face respiratory issues, while larger breeds like Pugs are at a higher risk for hip dysplasia. These factors can affect your pet insurance costs.
• Deductibles, Coinsurance, and Coverage Limits: The less you are willing to pay for your pet’s care out-of-pocket, the higher your premiums will be. For instance, choosing a $100 deductible instead of a $500 one allows for faster reimbursements but comes with increased premiums.