I'm hoping for some advice because I'm feeling totally lost about dog insurance and pre-existing conditions. I just adopted an adorable four-year-old rescue, Baxter, and I'm trying to get him insured. Here's the kicker: Baxter had a bout of kennel cough just a month before we brought him home, but he's perfectly healthy now. I'm worried if this would be considered a pre-existing condition, and if so, how it might affect his insurance coverage. I want to make sure that I'm fully prepared for anything that might come. Has anyone dealt with something similar? Any insights or advice would be greatly appreciated—I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed and just want to do right by my new furry friend! Thanks in advance!
Hello! Understanding what counts as a pre-existing condition is important when considering dog insurance. A pre-existing condition is typically any health issue your dog had before the start of a new insurance policy. This includes chronic illnesses like diabetes or conditions like a past knee injury.
Conditions are often considered pre-existing regardless of whether they were diagnosed or treated, as long as symptoms were present. For example, if your dog had consistent skin irritation before getting insurance, but you hadn’t yet seen a vet, insurers may still classify this as pre-existing.
While each insurance company has different rules, typically, conditions that have fully resolved and haven’t reoccurred for a certain period might not be considered pre-existing by some insurers.
When deciding on a policy, reviewing the terms regarding pre-existing conditions is vital. Also, keep an eye out for terms like “congenital” and “hereditary.” Some plans cover these from the start, while others define them as pre-existing conditions.
For specific questions related to your pup, consider scheduling a video consult through Dial A Vet. A tailored discussion could provide more clarity and peace of mind about the healthiest way forward!
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