If you are a pet parent in Seattle, vet bills can add up quickly. That’s why it’s essential to have pet insurance. This pet insurance guide will look at six of the best companies for the Seattle area.
We’ll consider each company’s coverage options, rates, and customer satisfaction to help you decide which pet insurance plan is best for you and your furry friend. Both Trupanion and Healthy Paws are located across Lake Washington in Bellevue, Washington. They are popular among pet parents in the state because they cover all accidents and illnesses with no lifetime limits.
Healthy Paws also offers routine care coverage, while Trupanion has a higher reimbursement rate for office visits, diagnostics, and alternative therapies.
We’ve looked at the costs, coverage, claims processes, and customer experience histories of more than 20 NAPHIA member pet insurance companies, helping you find the best pet insurance for your Seattle-based furry friend. You’ll need to remember though that most pet insurance companies don’t cover pre-existing conditions.
The American Pet Products Association (APPA) adds that a pets’ overall health and well-being have become every pet parent’s number one priority around the globe. From dog toys, joint supplements, and runner leashes to pet insurance, APPA’s pet spending statistics reveal that dog owners spend an average of $1,480 per year on their furry friends.
APPA adds that “According to the 2021-2022 APPA National Pet Owners Survey, pet owners continue to spend more on vitamins, supplements, treats, and toys for their pets as they aim to prioritize pet wellness. The New Year is the perfect time to explore products aimed not only at ensuring pets remain happy and healthy, but also helping owners to keep their resolutions.”
What does pet insurance cover?
If you’re curious about what those premiums get you, here’s the takeaway. Pet insurance policies typically cover accidents, illnesses, and routine/preventative care. Some plans also cover dental care, but this is not always the case.
Accidents may include things like your dog getting hit by a car or swallowing a foreign object. Illnesses may include conditions such as cancer, diabetes, and arthritis. Routine or preventative care may consist of vaccinations, routine bloodwork or screenings, and spaying/neutering.
Most pet insurance policies have an annual deductible that you must meet before the coverage kicks in. For example, if your puppy has an accident and hurts himself and vet bills cost $1,000, but your deductible is $500, you would be responsible for paying the first $500, and the insurance company would pay the remaining $500.
There is also usually a co-pay or coinsurance, which is the percentage of the bill you are responsible for after the deductible is met. For example, if your co-pay is 20% and the bill is $1,000, you would be responsible for paying $200, and the insurance company would pay the remaining $800.
Some policies also limit how much they will pay out per incident or year. This limit is usually between $5,000 and $10,000. Once you reach that limit, the insurance company will no longer pay for treatment related to that incident or condition. Both Trupanion and Healthy Paws have no coverage limits and no per-incident, annual, or lifetime caps.
Pre-existing conditions are usually not covered by pet insurance policies. For example, if your dog is diagnosed with cancer before you get insurance, the policy will not cover cancer treatment.
In addition, some policies have a waiting period for coverage of pre-existing conditions, typically around 6 to 12 months. However, if your dog is diagnosed with cancer within the first 6 to 12 months of having insurance, many policies will not cover cancer treatment.
It’s key to read the fine print of any pet insurance policy before signing up, so you know exactly what you’re getting.
Now that you know more about pet insurance, here are six of the best companies in Seattle for 2022.
In a rush? Here are our top 3 picks for the best pet insurance companies in Seattle in 2022:
Top Picks For Young And Healthy Dogs
- Pros
- Crafted with the lowest prices among the plans we looked at
- Features a 2 -day waiting period for accident coverage
- Optional wellness plan available
- 10 % bundle discount
- Multipet discount
- Several policy add-ons are available
- Features many several coverage limits to choose from $5,000 to $100,000
- Easy to figure out
- Cons
- No coverage for alternative/holistic veterinary services
- Features a 6-month waiting period for cruciate ligament issues
- No dental cleaning coverage
Lemonade pet insurance is our top pick because it’s priced affordably and offers excellent coverage. For starters, Lemonade is the go-to for affordable pet insurance that everyone can afford
Unlike many other providers, they only have a two-day accident wait period for plans compared to other pet insurance carriers with a 14-day accident wait period. With standard coverage, wellness add- ons, and an easy-to-use mobile app, Lemonade has become one of our favorite companies.
Lemonade is the best pet insurance company we found, with its wide range of customizable annual limits. You can also bundle the pet policy with your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy and save even more.
For example, Lemonade features the lowest prices among all plans analyzed; an accident waiting period that’s only two days, an optional wellness program is available if your furry friend has any pre-existing conditions that may need additional coverage like diabetes or allergies; and this policy also covers illnesses. However, the takeaway is that if you have a senior pet with a pre-existing condition, you’ll need to submit your pup’s veterinary health records.
Features
- Comprehensive preventative packages
- Most affordable with the lowest rates
- Puppy Preventative package covers spaying or neutering. microchipping, flea meds & vaccines
- Two days wait for accident coverage
- Option of any licensed vet in your area
- Fast claims processing
- Pros
- Breed-specific conditions covered
- Allergies, cancer, heart disease, plus more covered
- The best policy for "worst-case scenario" costs
- No per incident, annual, or lifetime limits
- One simple plan that covers 90% of your unexpected illnesses and injuries
- 5-day wait period for injuries
- 30-day wait period for illnesses that can be waived with a vet health certificate.
- Features additional health packages as add-ons
- Crafted with additional coverage for alternative & rehabilitative therapies
- Features extra protection for breeding dogs
- Cons
- It may be slightly pricier but is well worth it.
- It does not cover exam fees or the Option to pay for Wellness care.
Trupanion has plenty to offer in terms of comprehensive pet insurance coverage in Seattle. They feature a per-incident deductible instead of an annual one. This means that you’ll have to meet the deductible numerous times for each per incident illness or injury incident.
Trupanion Express features direct vet pay, so you don’t have to pay your vet at service. We like this pet insurance for Seattle pet parents because if your furbaby goes to a new owner, the coverage continues if the policy is transferred.
Trupanion also covers curable pre-existing conditions that no longer have symptoms. There’s also coverage for all new injuries and illnesses that crop up. The takeaway with Trupanion is that there’s an unlimited payout for the lifetime of your pet. So if your furbaby has a chronic condition that needs continuous yearly treatment, you’ll only pay the deductible once.
Prosthetic devices and carts are also covered, so this is one of the best pet insurances in Seattle for senior pets with mobility issues. If you’re a pet parent to a breed that may be predisposed to cancer or other serious illnesses, you may want to consider this plan and keep in mind the direct vet pay option which means that bills are paid directly to the vet from Trupanion. Coverage includes hospital stays, diagnostic tests, medications, surgeries, and other treatments for illnesses and injuries.
Features
- Pet insurance coverage designed by veterinarians
- No deductible for Florida pet parents
- Pays animal hospital or vet directly
- Features one standard 90% reimbursement rate option
- Offers lifetime condition deductibles.
- Unlimited payout for pet’s lifetime
- Hundreds of rate options
- An excess of more than 1 billion paid out
- Single accident & illness plan with unlimited coverage
- It covers behavioral therapies at an additional cost.
- Pros
- 12-month wait period for hip dysplasia coverage
- Charges deductible annually
- Covers alternative therapies in the standard plan
- It does not cover behavioral therapies.
- 15-day waiting period for illnesses and injuries.
- No costly add-ons
- Use any licensed veterinarian
- Cons
- No discounts
- It does not cover exam fees or the option to pay for Wellness care
This is another top-rated pet insurance carrier with no maximum annual payout caps. Claims are usually processed within two days. This pet insurance company is committed to helping homeless pets and has donated over 1.6 million.
This company makes pet insurance easy with only one plan to think about. This plan covers accidents and illnesses, and you get to customize the amount you pay your vet upfront and how much you get reimbursed. Healthy Paws also offers direct vet pay.
The takeaway with Healthy Paws is no per-condition, annual, or lifetime payout caps. This company also covers treatment, hospitalization, and surgery for injuries and illnesses, including cancer and alternative therapies like acupuncture and chiropractic, for which pets benefit immensely.
Features
- Numerous deductible options
- Reimbursement choices from 50%-90%
- No coverage limits
- Pets need to be eight weeks and up to be covered
- Coverage caps at 14 years of age
- No per-incident, annual, or lifetime caps
Best for senior pets with mobility issues
- Pros
- Good Wellness plan add-on that covers dental cleanings & spay/neutering
- Multiple discounts offered
- Option for unlimited annual coverage.
- No upper age limit for enrollment
- Works with all licensed veterinarians in the United States, Canada, & Puerto Rico
- Good customer service
- Features a vet locator tool on the website and a 24/7 Vet helpline.
- Cons
- No parasite treatments covered
- No policy adjustment until the renewal date
- Coverage doesn't extend to end-of-life costs.
Pets Best offers a Wellness Rewards program that gives you a 20-percent discount on your premiums for enrolling your pet in routine care. This pet insurance for Seattle-based pets also covers alternative therapies and has a shorter waiting period for hip dysplasia coverage than some of its competitors. With Pets Best, you can customize your annual benefit limit and choose a reimbursement level of 70%, 80%, or 90%. This company has no age limits on enrollment, which means they cater to all types of pets! We like this policy because it’s economical while still providing excellent coverage.
This may be a good option if you have a dog with hip dysplasia or degenerative joint disorders. The Elite Plan is one up from the Plus plan and features coverage for rehabilitative care, acupuncture, and alternative therapies.
Pets Best is an excellent option for those looking to save money and care about their pet’s health. It offers affordable plans with many features, such as prescription coverage or rehabilitative treatment — making it perfect even if you’re not sure what your pup needs!
Features
- Provides coverage for wheelchairs and prosthetics
- Large range of deductible options ($50-$1000)
- Affordable
- Covers pups seven weeks and up with no age limit
- Multiple plan options
- Mobile app for fast claims processing
Best plan for multi-pet households with exotic pets
- Pros
- BBB Rating A+
- 24/7 pet telehealth line
- Pet Rx Express for affordable pet meds at Walmart or Sam's Club
- Features Wellness plan
- Covers vet exam fees
- Routine Care Add-ons
- No time limit to submit a claim
- Exotic pet or bird insurance available (best pick)
- Cons
- 14-day waiting period for accidents & illness
- 12-month waiting period for cruciate ligaments
This is another top pick for pet parents in Seattle. We like this pet insurance carrier because it features one of the broadest coverage plans starting at $35 a month. Nationwide also features a pet major medical plan that caps benefits for each condition.
The Major Medical plan covers things like Surgeries & hospitalization, and chronic conditions. There are also some hereditary conditions (waiting period applies) that are covered.
You also get Pet Rx Express, which gives you preferred pricing on pet prescriptions from Walmart and Sam’s Club. It also covers exotic animals and birds like ferrets and parrots. Keep in mind that the Major Medical Plan features caps per condition.
If you’re looking for the most comprehensive plan, opt for the Whole Pet with Wellness plan. The Whole Pet plan has a $10,000 cap which covers the following and more:
- Hip dysplasia, blood disorders, & eye disorders
- Chiropractic care, laser therapy & acupuncture
- Wellness exams & vaccinations
- Surgeries & chemotherapy
- Arthritis, allergies & skin conditions
- Flea & heartworm prevention
Features
- Crafted with a variety of pet insurance policies to choose from.
- Exotic pet or bird insurance available (best pick)
- No time limit to submitting a claim
- Multiple discounts offered
- Numerous plans available
- Affordable
- Cancellation Period: Within 30 days after purchasing the policy
- Longstanding financial company
- Features Smartphone app to submit claims in real-time
Best Discount Plan for Pet Veterinary Care
- Pros
- Regardless of health conditions and age, all pets can be treated by a participating vet.
- Affordable & easy to understand
- No age limits
- Sick visits covered
- Covers pre-existing conditions
- No waiting periods, no deductibles, and no annual limits
- Large multi-pet and yearly payment discounts
- Covers pre-existing conditions
- 45-day money-back guarantee
- Covers dental care
- Business Bureau A+ rating
- Cons
- Veterinary treatment must be performed in-house by a registered Pet Assure veterinarian.
- No prescription coverage
- No coverage on tests conducted by outside labs.
Pet Assure is a company that offers veterinary discounts to help cut down on expensive costs for your pet. The plans work with 5,600 vets in all 50 states and Puerto Rico, which means you can get great deals no matter where life takes them!
There’s never been an easier way to save money with no age limitations or restrictions based on pre-existing conditions; there’s never been an easier way!
If you opt for a veterinary health discount plan, consider Pet Assure. There are also plenty of participating veterinarians near Seattle. Plans start at under $10 a month with every condition covered and no waiting period.
Features
- Discount membership plan
- All treatments covered
- All types of an animal eligible
- Easy & fast online enrollment process with no forms to fill out
- Pricing is determined by location and number of pets
- No wait periods- same day sign up veterinary care
- Covers Wellness program
- 5,600 locations
- Affordable
Pet Insurance Seattle
Is pet insurance worth the cost in Seattle?
Pet insurance can be a valuable asset for pet owners. It helps offset the cost of unexpected veterinary bills, which can be expensive. Vet bills also keep increasing, so having pet insurance can be a real life-saver.
There are various pet insurance companies to choose from, each with benefits and coverage options. Pet insurance can also save an animal’s life in dire situations where the pet would have to be euthanized if the owner could not afford the expensive surgery.
Choosing the best pet insurance company for your needs is essential. Some companies cover more than others, and some have better customer service. It is necessary to research to find the right company for you and your pet.
What pet insurance costs?
The cost of pet insurance varies depending on the company, the animal’s age, and the type of coverage. Generally, though, premiums cost between $10 and $50 per month. The average annual cost for an accident and illness policy is about $594 for dogs and $342 for cats, according to NAPHIA. Accident-only policy costs would be around $218 for dogs and $134 for cats.
Some companies also offer per-incident plans or wellness plans that reimburse you for a set amount of routine care, such as vaccinations, checkups, and teeth cleanings. These plans typically cost between $5 and $20 per month., but there is a wide range in coverage levels and deductibles, so it’s essential to compare policies carefully. Some insurers exclude pre-existing conditions, while others will cover them after a waiting period.
Premiums may differ based on your pet’s age and breed, the cost of veterinary care where you live, and the insurance policy you choose. As your pet gets older, your pet may be prone to more health issues, and rates may increase. Try not to cancel the plan because your pet will need it most then.
Cost of Vet Care
The cost of veterinary care in 2022 is expected to continue to rise, so it’s important to have pet insurance in case of an emergency. Data from APPA’s pet spending statistics per year on dogs reveal that owning a dog costs an average of $1,480 in basic expenses annually. On cats, average annual expenses amount to roughly $902.
Here are the most common types of pet insurance claims for dogs, according to NAPHIA.
According to the 2021-2022 National Pet Owners Survey conducted by the American Pet Products Association (APPA), “Seventy percent of U.S. households, or about 90.5 million families, own a pet.”
- Ear infection
- Gastrointestinal issues
- Diarrhea
- Dermatology (Skin allergies)
- Arthritis
- Allergies
- Lameness
- Vomiting
- Seizures
Frequently Asked Questions
What is pet insurance?
Pet insurance is a type of insurance that helps you pay for unexpected veterinary bills. It can help cover costs for routine care, such as checkups and vaccinations and emergency treatment if your dog is injured or becomes sick.
What does pet insurance cover?
A: Pet insurance policies vary, but most will cover various costs, including vet exams, vaccinations, medications, surgeries, and hospitalization.
How much does pet insurance cost?
Pet insurance premiums vary depending on the insurer, your pet’s age and health history, and your coverage. However, most plans are priced affordably.
What is a deductible?
A deductible is an amount you have to pay out of pocket before your pet insurance policy. For example, if you have a $500 deductible and your vet bill is $1,000, you would pay the first $500, and your insurer would cover the remaining $500.
How do I choose the right pet insurance policy for Seattle?
When shopping for pet insurance, it’s essential to consider your pet’s age and health history and the coverage you need. It’s also important to read the fine print and make sure you understand the terms and conditions of the policy.
Why do pets need pet insurance?
Pets need pet insurance because it helps you pay for unexpected veterinary bills. It can help cover the cost of routine care, such as checkups and vaccinations and emergency treatment if your dog is injured or becomes sick.
What are some standard pet insurance exclusions?
Some standard pet insurance exclusions include pre-existing conditions, congenital conditions, and preventive care. It’s essential to read the fine print of your policy to understand what is and isn’t covered.
How do I file a pet insurance claim?
To file a pet insurance claim, you must submit a claim form and supporting documentation to your insurer. Once the claim is approved, you will be reimbursed for covered expenses.
What is the best pet insurance company for Seattle?
The best pet insurance company for Seattle depends on your individual needs and preferences. However, we believe Lemonade offers the best combination of price and coverage for most pet owners.
How do I get the best pet insurance information?
The best way to get pet insurance information is to speak with a veterinarian or an insurance agent. You can also find helpful information online on our website at We Love Doodles.
Conclusion for Best Pet Insurance in Seattle
Pet insurance is a great way to protect your furry friend – and your wallet. Seattle has plenty of options for pet insurance, so you’re sure to find a policy that’s right for you and your pet. The takeaway from finding the best pet insurance in Seattle is to be sure you know what is and isn’t covered, the deductible, and how to file a claim. So be sure to ask questions and do your research before purchasing a policy.
Claudia Bensimoun is a writer who specializes in dog content and veterinary topics! Aside from writing for We Love Doodles, Claudia also writes for other major dog blogs like Fido Friendly, Animal Wellness Magazine, and the United States Dog Agility Association (USDAA). She has a ghostwritten over 50 different dog e-books. Her passions include animal welfare, veterinary research, and wildlife conservation.
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