Pet Insurance Myths and Facts

Myth: An indoor pet won't have many health problems.

Fact: When we think of the unexpected, we instantly think of accidents. However, over 75% of all claims are for illnesses and not accidents. Research shows that indoor pets are no less susceptible to these illnesses.

Myth: I should wait until my pet is older to purchase pet insurance.

Fact: Young pets are like babies and toddlers - they lack full coordination. They are more likely to experience injuries, or get into trouble. They lack the perception and judgment that comes from experience, and they are so small they don't know when they're underfoot. It's always better to enroll them when they're young, especially before pre-existing conditions develop, or accidents and illnesses occur.

Myth: Instead of pet insurance, I can just start saving now for a pet illness or accident.

Fact: The intention is right, but if an emergency occurs in the next few months and you've only saved a few dollars, you won't have the money needed for treatments or surgery. Most people aren't prepared for the actual cost of veterinary emergency care, or adequately prepared to put aside that much money at one time.

Myth: Pet insurance is much more expensive than my health insurance.

Fact: Pet insurance is actually much less expensive than human health insurance. The Government of Canada and provincial governments cover a substantial part of basic human health care. Human health insurance plans are really only providing you with extended health care benefits. As employers typically pay 50% - 100% of an employee's extended health insurance coverage, we are unaware of the real costs associated with our health care.

Myth: There's no such thing as 'preventive care' coverage.

Fact: Petplan offers pet parents the choice of selecting a plan that includes preventive care along with accident and illness coverage or a plan that provides only accident and illness coverage. Either option is a great decision - it really depends on you and your pet.

If you regularly schedule and complete 4 or 5 of the preventive care treatments outlined, then it makes good financial sense to enroll in our CHAMPION plan for your cat or dog. This would allow you to budget all of your pet's ongoing health care costs through your insurance plan on a scheduled basis and get the added benefits of accident and illness coverage.

Myth: I should wait to get pet health insurance until I discuss it with my family.

Fact: Petplan offers a 10-day money-back guarantee, so it pays to enroll now and get your waiting periods started. You're covered for accidents in just 48 hours, and you have 10 days to discuss it with your family and be sure about the plan you chose.