Are alternative therapies covered under pet insurance?
Written by
Victoria Hayes
Reviewed by
Prof. Henry Webster, Ph.D.Alternative therapies also offer excellent treatment options for your dog. Many comprehensive pet insurance policies cover alternative therapies, provided they are prescribed and administered by a licensed veterinarian. These therapies include physical rehabilitation (such as physiotherapy, acupuncture, and chiropractic), hydrotherapy, and behavioral therapy. Know your policy rules and you will make the most of your coverage.
Physical Rehabilitation
- Post-surgery recovery programs
- Muscle rebuilding after injuries
- Range-of-motion exercises
- Therapeutic massage for pain relief
- Ultrasound therapy for deep tissue healing
Energy-Based Therapies
- Acupuncture for arthritis pain
- Laser therapy for wound healing
- Chiropractic adjustments for spinal issues
- Electrostimulation for nerve regeneration
- Magnetic field therapy for inflammation
Aquatic Treatments
- Hydrotherapy for joint conditions
- Underwater treadmill sessions
- Swim therapy for weight management
- Buoyancy support for post-operative care
- Resistance training for muscle development
Coverage requires veterinary documentation that demonstrates medical necessity. Your veterinarian will need to provide a prescription that states the purpose of the therapy and the typical duration of treatment. Treatment plans should detail measurable 'goals for improvement' if possible. Without this sort of documentation, your pet's insurance company will probably deny your claim. Always keep records!
What therapies get reimbursed for what amount? Rates vary widely from one therapy to another and from one provider to another. Remote physical rehabilitation is refunded at 80% to 90% of the total cost. Acupuncture and chiropractic treatments are reimbursed at rates ranging from 70% to 80%. Behavioral therapy may only be refunded at 60% to 70% - but remember, these percentages apply after you have paid your deductible.
Caveats. Treatments do not include experimental procedures lacking logic or scientific testing. Wellness or preventive treatments (think relaxation massage) are typically excluded. Breed-specific exclusions could further limit coverage for specific health issues. Always read the alternative medicine section in your policy carefully.
The frequency of treatments can significantly impact the overall cost. Most therapies require more frequent visits (Many protocols begin with multiple treatments per week), and chronic conditions like arthritis may require ongoing maintenance. Pet insurance transforms those incremental costs into manageable payments, allowing for comprehensive care throughout your pet's life.
Ensure you check the qualifications of the provider before beginning treatments. Licensed veterinary physical therapists are the only ones permitted to conduct rehabilitation. Only certified animal acupuncturists should be placing needles to fire. If unqualified practitioners are utilized, the insurance will void coverage. Be sure to request credentials to ensure they meet the policy's specifications.
Read the full article: 10 Essential Pet Insurance Benefits Explained
