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The more expensive medical care becomes, the more we hear about health insurance for dogs and cats. In Quebec, it's become a must-have to protect your loved ones, just as you insure your home and car. Most of the time, you have to pay the bill and then get reimbursed, but there are exceptions.
Each insurer offers different coverage plans and has its own regulations. The monthly cost of insurance plans varies according to the species and breed; it also depends on your city. The deductible is usually determined by the age of the animal, but you can sometimes negotiate a higher deductible to reduce the amount you pay monthly.
List of pet health insurance companies:
1. Petsecure (by Petline)
In some circumstances, they may be able to pay your vet directly if you contact them quickly. Our organization partners with this company as part of the Adoptsecure program, which offers a six-week coverage trial to our adopters.
Phone: 1-800-268-1169
2. Hudson’s Bay Pet Insurance (by Petline)
This type of insurance can cover up to 80% of your pet's medical expenses, including x-rays, hospitalization, surgery, dental care and prescriptions.
Phone: 1-800-664-9204
3. Desjardins Insurance (by Petline)
This type of insurance covers up to 80% of medical expenses for cats and dogs. 10% discount if you insure 3 or more pets. 15% discount if you insure 6 or more pets.
Phone: 1-855-343-9393
4. The Personal (by Petline)
The insurance company processes your claim reimbursement within 5 to 10 business days of receiving your claim. More complex claims (such as those which involve multiple conditions) may take longer.
Phone: 1-855-343-9385
5. Sonnet (by Petline)
If you already have a home or auto policy with Sonnet, you can save 5% on your pet insurance. Plans cover up to 80% of medical care.
Phone: 1-888-920-7180
6. Trupanion (the most popular)
If you already have a home or auto policy with Sonnet, you can save 5% on Their protection offers a single plan, 90% coverage and unlimited payouts. Annual fees may, however, increase faster than those of insurers associated with Petline. Customers have access to Vet Direct Pay. pet insurance. Plans cover up to 80% of medical care.
Phone: 1-888-959-9165
7. Costco Insurance (by Pet Plus Us)
Reserved for Costco members. 15% discount for Executive members and 10% discount for Business and Privilege members. The first month is free, so you can try it out. There are two plans: one for accidents only, and one that also includes illness.
Phone: 1-855-887-7387
8. CAA Quebec (by Pet Plus Us)
CAA members benefit from a 12% discount on their pet's coverage. There are two plans available: one that covers accidents only, and another that includes illnesses as well as injuries.
Phone: 1-833-323-2454
9. Peppermint
Depending on the plan you choose and the treatment you require, you can receive up to 80% coverage off vet bills.
Phone: 1-833-678-6468
10. Pet+ Us
Their health insurance plans can cover up to 90% of the cost of care in the event of illness or accident. They also offer preventative care options.
Phone: 1-800-364-8422
10 tips for choosing the right insurance for your pet:
1. Assess your pet’s needs:
Every pet has different health needs, depending on its age, breed, and general health. Make sure you choose a policy that offers coverage tailored to these specific needs. Pre-existing medical conditions are not covered.
2. Compare reimbursement rates:
Some insurers cover up to 80% of veterinary expenses, while others cover 90%. Consider how much you'd be willing to pay out-of-pocket if the need arose.
3. Consider direct payment options:
Some insurers offer the option of paying their portion of the bill directly to the vet, which can be more convenient than going through the reimbursement process if you don't have savings or a credit card.
4. Check what’s excluded:
Make sure you understand what's included and what's excluded from each company's coverage. For example, some insurers may exclude specific treatments and dental care.
5. Consider the payout limit:
Some insurance plans have an annual limit on the total amount that can be reimbursed. Make sure this limit suits your needs and budget.
6. Think about the waiting period:
Waiting periods are the period during which you cannot make a claim after taking out insurance. Choose an insurer with a waiting period that suits you.
7. Read the reviews:
Check out other pet owners' reviews of insurers, in pet Facebook groups using the little magnifying glass or on Google. This can give you an idea of the quality of each company's customer service and claims process.
8. Explore customization options:
Some insurers are open to negotiating the monthly premium if you're willing to adjust the deductible or other aspects of the policy. This can help you get coverage that suits your needs and budget.
9. Check the insurance company's reputation:
Choose a reputable, well-established insurer in the pet insurance business. A solid company will be more likely to provide reliable service and handle claims efficiently.
10. Ask you vet:
Your vet may have recommendations or advice on the best insurance for your pet through their in-depth knowledge of the market and past experience with different insurance companies.
Find out more on the subject:
List created on February 16, 2024