The Difference Between Dog Wellness Plans and Pet Insurance

Are you thinking of getting insurance for your dog? Have you ever heard of dog wellness plans? Do you know how to tell the difference between the two and how to determine which one is right for you and your pet?

Pet insurance may be a new concept to many pet owners, but it is becoming more and more commonly found among dog owners. In this article, we’ll explain more about the difference between pet insurance and pet wellness plans so you can choose the right fit for your needs moving forward.

Dog Wellness Plans

Wellness plans tend to cover more annual procedures than insurance. Some of these coverages include:

• Vaccinations
• Flea and tick testing, prevention, and treatment
• Dental cleanings and care
• Annual exams and screenings
• Spay and neutering procedures
• Procedures related to breeding and birth
• Microchipping
• Other routine procedures that are commonly provided at your regular vet’s office

How Wellness Plans Work

The way a wellness plan works differs from the way a pet insurance plan works. Here is a quick rundown of the functions of a wellness plan:

• Wellness plans work by charging pet owners a monthly rate that works to cover the cost of procedures performed throughout the year.
• In other words, you will pay monthly for your pet’s annual wellness exams, screenings, and preventative measures. In turn, the veterinarian will provide these procedures to you as part of the paid wellness plan.
• This method makes it easier for pet owners to cover the costs of vet bills by paying a little at a time, rather than one large lump sum that may be difficult to afford all at once.
• Wellness plans can make it easier for you to stay on top of potential health problems for your pet, but they do not cover the treatment of acute problems like injuries or illnesses. They do, however, sometimes cover the cost of long-term treatments such as flea medications and heartworm pills.

Signing Up for Dog Wellness Plans

Many dog wellness plans are offered directly by the animal hospital. These plans can be used at that animal hospital only, or at chain locations if applicable. However, some wellness plans also come from third party providers that partner with your vet to create the best solution for pet parents looking for a good option.

Dog Insurance

Insurance covers more acute or one-time treatments, diagnostic tools, and the like. Some of these coverages include:

• Acute injury related to accidents or trauma
• Sudden onset illnesses
• Chronic or long-term illnesses
• Congenital conditions such as hip dysplasia and their treatments
• Physical therapy and other orthopedic treatments
• Prescription medications for both short-term and long-term use
• Any other procedures that are extra and not part of routine exams

How Pet Insurance Works

The functions of a pet insurance plan are slightly different from those of a wellness plan. Read through them here to find out more:

• Pet insurance also requires a monthly fee, although some plans can be paid off quarterly or twice a year instead—just like insurance for humans.
• Pet insurance covers the cost of vet visits related to acute problems such as injuries, unexpected illness, or pets who ingest a toxic substance or are bitten by a venomous snake, for example.
• Pet insurance also covers the cost of long-term healthcare treatment and management for pets with chronic conditions like arthritis, diabetes, or cancer, among others.
• Pet insurance can be used at your regular vet but can also be used at most other vet offices, including most emergency vets. This way, you can make sure your pet’s health care is covered if an emergency arises anywhere.
• You may still need to pay a copay when you have pet insurance, but the bill will be less than the total cost of the vet care.

Signing Up for Pet Insurance

Insurance is usually not provided by the vet but comes from a third-party provider. However, many vets partner with these providers to offer a discounted insurance rate for their patients. Your vet may also be able to suggest a good quality pet insurance company based on their own past experiences or those of their other patients.

In Conclusion

As you can see, there are plenty of similarities and differences between both concepts. Your vet may offer one or both services through the animal hospital, or you may need to reach out to a third party on your own to find the best insurance or wellness plan for your dog.

Either way, it’s important to consider these options whether you have a new dog, or your existing dog is not yet covered by a medical plan. You may be able to find the right type of financial aid for your pet’s medical bills through one of these options.

Boston Veterinary Clinic offers wellness plans to fit your pet’s needs. Book an appointment with our team online today!