5 Things You Didn’t Think Pet Insurance Would Cover
Pet insurance doesn't just cover accidents and illnesses! Here are 5 things you didn't think insurance would cover, like hydrotherapy and acupuncture.
Pet insurance can be an invaluable asset when planning your finances around your pet’s health. While you may expect it to help in situations such as major accidents and illnesses, AKC Pet Insurance (underwritten by Independence American Insurance Company) offers plans that expand the type of treatments and conditions you may be reimbursed for. So, let’s take a look at five things you didn’t think insurance would cover.
1. Hydrotherapy
Hydrotherapy has been used as a treatment for a wide range of injuries and illnesses. But did you know that your pet can also benefit from hydrotherapy? Veterinarians may recommend that your pet use hydrotherapy to treat conditions such as arthritis, ACL conditions, or to support weight loss. Hydrotherapy is potentially eligible as a treatment for your pet’s condition when you add optional AlternativePlus coverage to your pet’s policy.
AlternativePlus is add-on coverage (at an additional cost) that provides reimbursement for alternative and complementary therapies. Alternative therapies in the insurance world mean “treatment that does not generally fall within the realm of conventional veterinary medicine,” as defined by the American Association of Rehabilitation Veterinarians (AARV).
2. Acupuncture
Believe it or not, this centuries-old treatment can be eligible for coverage if you sign up for the AlternativePlus add-on. Veterinarians may recommend adding acupuncture to your pet’s treatment plan as an alternative to pain medications. Acupuncture treatment must be performed by a veterinarian or a veterinary staff member under the direct supervision of a veterinarian.
3. Chiropractic Treatment
Pet owners seek chiropractic treatment for their furry friends for the same reasons they seek it for themselves: to alleviate pain and discomfort. While not suited for every pet, some believe routine chiropractic treatment can help lessen arthritic pain and stiffness. So, here’s some good news! Not only is chiropractic treatment potentially eligible with our AlternativePlus add-on, but pet massage may also be eligible if your pet has it prescribed by a veterinarian to treat a specific eligible condition.
4. Behavioral Problems
Just like humans, the scope of pet health extends beyond the physical. If your pet is exhibiting abnormal behaviors such as aggression, anxiety, and destructive or compulsive behavior not caused by an underlying medical condition, their treatment may be eligible with our AlternativePlus add-on. For example, suppose your pet has been struggling to manage their anxiety. In that case, your veterinarian may refer them to a behaviorist for treatment, which is potentially eligible for reimbursement. There is an annual limit of $1000 for Behavioral Problems.
5. Pre-Existing Conditions
Yes, you read that right! We are the first and only major pet insurance company to offer coverage for pre-existing conditions*. If a policyholder has continuous coverage for 365 days, they have satisfied the exclusion period for a pre-existing condition. To learn more about our pre-existing condition coverage, speak to a member of our Customer Care Team or read the following blog article: Pet Insurance for Pre-Existing Conditions.
Every pet is unique. That’s why we offer customizable coverage to meet their unique needs. Do you still have questions on what treatments might be eligible with your policy? Check out our sample policies page, where you can learn more about what is offered depending on the state where you live. For even more information, speak to a member of customer care team at 1-866-725-2747.
*Not available in all states. “Only brand“ refers to comparison with 5 pet insurance carriers making up approximately 80% of the US pet insurance market (Nationwide, ASPCA, Trupanion, HealthyPaws and PetPlan).
Take some of the stress out of pet ownership with Accident & Illness Coverage from AKC Pet Insurance (underwritten by Independence American Insurance Company). Our pet insurance plans are designed to be there when you need them, allowing you to focus more on the health of your pet and less on costly veterinary bills.
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As an avid fan of all things that meow or bark, Jodie uses her expertise in human and animal health to have a positive impact on the well-being of pets and their owners. Jodie lives in Durham, NC with her cat, "Noodle", and two dogs, "Lilly" and "Clementine".
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