Pet Travel Insurance vs. Pet Health Insurance: What’s the Difference?
We recently received a question from Laura, who was looking for solutions for pet insurance while shipping her pets:
Hi PetRelocation!
I am curious if pet insurance is recommended/commonplace during the import/export process. Can you recommend good coverage? Are there any websites out there with more details?
Thank you! -Laura
Pet Travel Insurance
On the other hand, pet travel insurance is specifically designed to cover risks associated with traveling with your pet. This can include coverage for costs incurred due to travel delays, cancellations, lost or delayed pets, and even some medical emergencies that occur while your pet is in transit. For example, pet travel insurance could cover if your pet is scheduled to fly from San Francisco to London on United Airlines Flight UA 733, departing at 13:00 on 11 June 2023 and arriving at 16:45 on the same day the costs if there are any unexpected delays or cancellations.
However, it's important to note that pet travel insurance typically only covers incidents related to the travel itself and not broader health issues your pet may experience. It's also usually a one-time or short-term coverage for the travel duration.
Pet Health Insurance
Pet health insurance typically covers veterinary costs associated with your pet's illness or injury. This can include everything from routine check-ups and vaccinations to surgery and other medical treatments. It's more of a long-term coverage that ensures your pet's health needs are cared for, no matter where you are.
Most pet health insurance plans offer various coverage levels, from basic plans that cover accidents and illness to comprehensive plans that include wellness care. However, pet health insurance does not cover the costs related to travel or potential issues that may arise during travel, such as lost or delayed pets.
Use these as starting points for further pet health insurance research, do a few Google searches, talk to your vet, and check out Pet Insurance Review, which offers ratings and client reviews for pet insurance programs.
Choosing the Right Insurance for Your Pet
When choosing the right insurance for your pet, it's essential to consider your pet's specific needs, travel plans, and what each type of insurance covers. If you frequently travel with your pet or plan a significant relocation, pet travel insurance might be worth considering. However, pet health insurance is the go-to option for overall health coverage.
Remember, it's crucial to read the fine print of any insurance policy to understand what is and isn't covered. Always consult with your pet relocation consultant or insurance provider to ensure you make the best decision for your pet. Here are a few of the frequently asked questions:
- How much does pet travel insurance cost? The cost of pet travel insurance varies depending on the company, the type of coverage you choose, and the age and health of your pet. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from $20 to $100 monthly for pet travel insurance.
- How much does pet health insurance cost? The cost of pet health insurance also varies depending on the company, the type of coverage you choose, and the age and health of your pet. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from $10 to $50 monthly for pet health insurance.
- What are some of the benefits of pet travel insurance? Pet travel insurance can help you cover the costs of unexpected medical care, lost or stolen luggage, and other travel-related expenses. This can give you peace of mind when you're traveling with your pet.
- What are some of the benefits of pet health insurance? Pet health insurance can help you cover the costs of routine and unexpected veterinary care. This can save you money in the long run, especially if your pet has a pre-existing condition.