Pet health insurance in New York, explained by a real person
Vet bills tend to arrive without warning, whether it is a swallowed sock, an ear infection or a torn ligament after a run in the park. Pet health insurance helps pay for accidents and illnesses, so treatment decisions can be about your dog or cat rather than the bill.
Gordon Companies is a family-owned, independent brokerage in Midtown Manhattan, serving New York City, Westchester, Long Island and the nearby suburbs since 1968. We help you understand how pet plans work and compare options, with a real person on the phone instead of a chat bot.
What pet health insurance covers
Plans vary, but accident and illness coverage commonly includes:
- Accidents, such as injuries, broken bones and swallowed objects
- Illnesses, from infections and digestive problems to cancer and chronic conditions
- Diagnostic tests like bloodwork, x-rays and ultrasounds
- Surgery and hospital stays
- Emergency and specialist care
- Prescription medications
Many plans also offer an optional wellness add-on for routine care such as checkups and vaccines.
Common exclusions
Pre-existing conditions are typically excluded, and most plans have waiting periods before certain coverage begins. Cosmetic procedures and breeding costs are usually not covered, and some plans limit coverage for specific hereditary conditions.
How pet insurance pays
Most pet plans work on reimbursement. You pay the vet, submit a claim, and the plan pays you back a percentage of the covered cost after your deductible. Many plans let you use any licensed veterinarian, including emergency hospitals and specialists.
The choices that shape your plan and its price are:
- The deductible, and whether it applies per year or per condition
- The reimbursement percentage
- The annual or lifetime benefit limit
- Whether to add wellness coverage
Pets in the city
City pets live close to neighbors, dog runs, walkers and daycare, which means more chances for scrapes and more chances to cause one. Pet health insurance pays for your pet’s care. It does not pay for injuries or damage your pet causes to other people.
That liability usually falls under the personal liability section of your renters insurance or condo and co-op insurance, and some carriers limit or exclude certain breeds. If you have a large dog or a history of incidents, an umbrella policy can add a layer of protection above those limits, depending on the carrier.
What affects the cost of pet insurance
- Species and breed
- Your pet’s age when you enroll
- Where you live, since veterinary costs vary by area
- The deductible, reimbursement level and limit you choose
Why enrolling early helps
Because pre-existing conditions are typically excluded, the best time to enroll is while your pet is young and healthy. A condition that shows up before coverage starts may never be covered later.
Questions we hear about pet health insurance
Does pet insurance cover pre-existing conditions?
Typically not. Some plans treat certain curable conditions differently after a symptom-free period, so it is worth asking how each plan defines the term.
Can I keep using my own vet?
With many plans, yes. Because most plans reimburse you rather than paying the vet directly, you can usually see any licensed veterinarian.
Is pet insurance worth it for an older dog or cat?
It can still help with new accidents and illnesses. Premiums tend to rise with age and existing conditions will usually be excluded, so we look at the numbers with you before you decide.
Does pet insurance cover a dog bite to someone else?
No. Pet health insurance covers your pet’s medical care. A claim from someone your dog injures is a liability matter, usually handled by your home, condo or renters policy.
Related coverage
Start your pet insurance quote
Tell us about your pet on our quote request page, or call 212-687-2525 Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm. A real person at Gordon Companies will walk you through the options and help you pick a plan that fits your pet and your budget.
