When should I enroll my pet for optimal coverage?
Written by
Victoria Hayes
Reviewed by
Prof. Henry Webster, Ph.D.Enrolling as soon as possible ensures that you'll receive better coverage at a lower price. The best time to enroll your pet is before it is one year old; otherwise, you risk securing a higher price and poorer coverage due to exclusions for pre-existing conditions. Once you miss the one-year cutoff, you may be unable to proceed.
Premium Savings
- Premiums average $15-30 monthly before age one
- Costs increase forty percent after age three
- Large breed dogs see fifty percent higher rates after six months
- Premium differences last throughout your pet's life
Coverage Guarantees
- Lifetime renewable policies secured before age one
- Chronic conditions covered indefinitely if diagnosed after enrollment
- Hereditary issues become eligible without exclusions
- No breed-specific limitations imposed
Avoiding Limitations
- Pre-existing conditions permanently excluded after enrollment
- Pets over seven qualify only for accident-only plans
- Coverage limits decrease for senior pets
- Waiting periods extend for older animals
Timing is breed-specific; large breeds that are prone to dysplasia are usually required to be enrolled before six months of age. Brachycephalic breeds will also need to be enrolled early for conditions related to their breathing. Please make a breeding and timing enquiry.
The documentation provides a record of your pet's health status when enrolled. The most convincing documentation is the veterinary records, which show that your pet had no pre-existing conditions at the time of enrollment. With this, you can establish protection in the event of a dispute over a claim. All your pet's vaccination records and any exam results establish its baseline health status.
Waiting periods create gaps in coverage following enrollment for accidents and illness. Accident coverage generally begins after fourteen days, and illness coverage after thirty days. Enroll before developing health problems so that health issues are not classified as preexisting during the waiting period.
You should initiate a comparison of policies during your first vet visit for your puppy or kitten, request quotes from multiple providers. Carefully consider the differences in premiums. Also, double-check that the coverage fits your pet's specific needs. This dollar amount is your guarantee for lifelong protection.
Read the full article: 10 Essential Pet Insurance Benefits Explained
