How much does dog & cat insurance cost in Alaska for the 15 most popular breeds?

The price for Alaska pet insurance is almost always the same throughout the state including in Fairbanks, Anchorage, Nome, or Juneau etc. However, the prices will vary based on the age, health and breed of your puppy.

All prices shown below are based on a 90% reimbursement rate with a $500 deductible and a $5,000 annual benefit from Figo pet insurance. Please note: these prices should only be treated as a rough guide as of June 2022 and are subject to change. If you’re looking for the most up-to-date cost of pet insurance in Alaska we suggest getting a quote directly with Figo or Trupanion.

Dog Insurance Prices in Alaska:

1. Mixed Breed – $20.98/ mo
2. Labrador Retriever – $28.57/ mo
3. Golden Retriever – $28.52/ mo
4. German Shepherd – $30.81/ mo
5. Goldendoodle – $24.81/ mo
6. Chihuahua – $13.04/ mo
7. Siberian Husky – $28.65/ mo
8. Yorkshire Terrier – $18.00/ mo
9. American Pit Bull Terrier – $31.72/ mo
10. Australian Shepherd – $19.72/ mo
11. Dachshund – $18.61/ mo
12. Shih Tzu – $16.57/ mo
13. French Bulldog – $39.23/ mo
14. Boxer – $39.38/ mo
15. Labradoodle – $24.81/ mo

Cat Insurance Prices in Alaska:

1. Mixed Breed – $12.19/ mo
2. American Shorthair – $14.42/ mo
3. Bengal – $14.42/ mo
4. Bombay – $14.42/ mo
5. British Shorthair – $14.42/ mo
6. Exotic – $14.42/ mo
7. Himalayan – $14.42/ mo
8. Maine Coon – $15.20/ mo
9. Persian – $15.20/ mo
10. Ragdoll – $15.20/ mo
11. Russian Blue – $14.42/ mo
12. Scottish Fold – $15.20/ mo
13. Siamese – $15.20/ mo
14. Sphynx – $16.57/ mo
15. Abyssinian – $14.42/ mo

Not finding your specific pet breed? Figo pet insurance is our #1 recommendation for Alaska and they’ll be able to give you a quick quote for your exact needs.

FAQs for Alaska Pet Insurance

What is pet insurance and why should I have it in Alaska?

Pet insurance is just what it sounds like, an insurance policy for your pet. It enables them to get the care they need without draining your entire bank account. You simply sign up with a pet insurance provider and pay a monthly premium. If your pet gets sick or injured, you will first pay the bill as normal. Later, you’ll be reimbursed a certain amount after submitting a reimbursement claim from your insurance provider.

I believe pet insurance is extremely useful to have because you never know how expensive a visit to the vet can end up being, especially here in Alaska where the daily cost of living alone can be outrageous! The sad thing is, too many pet owners end up euthanizing their pets when they can’t afford needed treatments. Pet insurance eliminates that terrible option.

Now, something that’s helpful to know is that many insurance providers exclude some pre-existing conditions, making them ineligible for reimbursement. It’s highly recommended that you obtain insurance while your pet is a puppy or kitten. The best time is after eight weeks and before their first birthday.

How old should my pet be to get insurance?

You can’t simply get pet insurance at any time. You have to wait until your pet is at least eight weeks old for them to be eligible. On the other hand, there is no upper limit; adult and elderly cats and dogs can get insurance too.

Tip: Younger animals are the most affordable to insure. They don’t have as many pre-existing conditions and are in the prime of their health.

Is pet insurance worth it in Alaska?

100% yes. Healthcare is expensive, both for humans and pets! Since you wouldn’t like paying all your own medical bills out of pocket, you shouldn’t have to do it for your pets either. Sadly, emergencies are something that we can’t always escape. Insurance can save you a million headaches (and dollars).

What’s covered and what’s not with pet insurance?

Short answer: coverage varies. It really depends on who your insurance company is and what your policy looks like. However, almost universally, sicknesses and injuries that are sudden will be covered and able to be reimbursed. This includes things like swallowing toys (or household objects) and breaking bones.

On the flip side, things that are not sudden may not be covered. Say your cat has cancer or your dog has heart disease. These are called “pre-existing conditions” and insurance providers generally exclude them.

Your insurance provider may offer additional coverage on your policy, including routine vet visits, vaccinations, etc., to cut costs.

How do I get reimbursed?

Insurance and reimbursement is actually quite simple. Seriously! Let’s look at this example:

Terms to Know:
Annual Deductible – The amount you have to pay before insurance kicks in. Reimbursement Percentage – This is how much you will get back after submitting a claim. Maximum Benefit – The maximum amount your insurance provider will pay into claims.

Sample Scenario:
Annual Deductible: $300
Reimbursement Amount: 80%
Annual Max Benefit: $6,000

1. You submit a vet bill for $5,000.
2. The bill ($5,000) minus your deductible ($300) equals $4,700.
3. Based on your reimbursement percentage of 80%, you receive $3,760. (80% of $4,700)

Not bad at all! Want something different? Trupanion is an insurance company that pays vets directly so you don’t have to deal with reimbursement claims.

What’s better? Lower or higher deductible?

One is not necessarily “better” than the other. A low deductible results in higher premiums. That means you’ll owe more each month, but less when it comes time to visit the vet. A high deductible results in lower premiums, but a higher bill at the vet. You can find the right deductible amount for you based on your income and overall financial situation. I’ve found that the majority of pet owners choose a deductible of $250 or $500.

Are cat or dog breeds restricted for homeowners insurance in Alaska?

Although Alaska may be the last frontier, you can still find restrictions on some dog breeds, or find that you’ll need a liability rider. These breeds include, but are not limited to:

• Akitas
• Bull Mastiffs
• Chow Chows
• Doberman Pinschers
• German Shepherds
• Bull Mastiffs
• Pit Bull Terriers
• Rottweilers
• Wolfhounds

Don’t worry about cats. You shouldn’t run into any issues, but it’s best to reach out to your home insurance provider for the most accurate information.

5 Strategies to Keep Your Pets Healthy and Safe in Alaska

1. Don’t Fear the Last Frontier

Alaska is absolutely stunning. Majestic mountains, picturesque landscapes, abundant lakes and rivers—it’s a paradise for outdoor lovers, however, we must respect Mother Nature and her land. When enjoying nature with your pet, practice the following:

• Research your destination ahead of time. Storms, wildlife encounters, natural disasters, etc. are all a possibility in the great outdoors.
• Rules are rules for a reason. Follow all posted rules and guidelines on trailheads.
• Keep your dog leashed whenever required. An unleashed dog can be a safety hazard (harm to fellow hikers, dangerous wildlife etc.). Don’t cause undue risk.

2. Beware of Bears

Bears are found all over Alaska. These naturally shy animals like to stay out of the way of humans, but accidental encounters are always something to keep in mind. Stay safe in bear country:

• Clean your pet’s waste and any food. Properly store belongings to keep bears away.
• Supervise your pets. Interactions between bears and other animals are unpredictable. A scared bear can mean a world of trouble for you.
• Carry bear spray whenever you’re in remote areas. Better to be safe than sorry.
• Should you encounter a bear, here’s what to do:
  • Keep your pet leashed.
  • Stay calm. Do not run.
  • Make loud noises, such as clapping your hands, stomping your feet, or speaking at a higher volume than normal.
  • Don’t turn your back on the bear. While facing them, begin to back away slowly.
  • If you are attacked, fight back as best as you can.
  • Your safety comes first. Although you’ll want to do everything in your power to protect your pet, you won’t be able to help them if you’re injured or worse.
  • If your pet gets bitten, immediately contact a veterinarian.

3. Seize the Freeze

Alaska winters are freezing, and that’s an understatement. Temperatures are known to regularly dip below zero degrees throughout the winter, starting as early as September and often lasting into May. If it’s too cold for you, it’s certainly too cold for your pets. Here’s how to stay safe and make the most of pristine Alaska winters:

• Prepare with adequate food, water, shelter, and other survival supplies for you and your pets. Many Alaskan homes are in remote locations where a simple trip to the grocery store may not be an option during parts of the season.
• Do not shave your pet’s fur too short. Their natural coats offer protection and warmth for harsh winter environments. Consider protective booties and sweaters for pets with less natural fur.
• Protect your pets. Though they have fur, their toes, nose, and ears are still especially vulnerable to extreme cold. Provide warm and dry shelter, as well as lots of water.
• Aging animals, young puppies and kittens, and pets with health issues should be kept indoors throughout the winter as they are at higher risk.
• Supervise your pets any time they’re outdoors. Wipe away excess snow and ice and quickly dry your pet when they return inside.
• Remember, not every Alaskan dog is a sled dog. Although breeds like Huskies may fare well in the winter, a Chihuahua will not. Use common sense and watch your pet closely.

4. Veto Mosquitos

As welcome as Alaska summer is, with comfortable temperatures and a never-setting sun, there’s always one pest trying to ruin it all: mosquitos. Alaska is absolutely brimming with these bugs, and they’re not so little. Just as you’re vulnerable to their bites, your pets are as well:

• Keep your pet’s vaccinations up-to-date, including heartworm treatments, as mosquitoes can carry and spread deadly diseases.
• Keep pets indoors during peak mosquito hours: dusk and dawn.
• Keep doors and windows closed. Repair or block holes that mosquitoes can fit through.
• Use pet-safe insect repellent.
• Get rid of standing water where you can. Mosquitoes breed in standing water, including puddles, ponds, pet water bowls, and bird baths.

5. Fire Wildfires

Cold Alaska may be the last place you’d expect wildfires, but they are practically a summer staple in this state due to millions of acres of thick forests and remote wilderness. Prepare yourself and your pets:

• If you have to evacuate, bring your pets with you to an animal-friendly shelter, hotel, or a loved one’s home.
• Get a supply kit ready with essentials like food, water, and medical documents.
• Even if a wildfire is hundreds of miles away, the air can be unhealthy and smoky.
  • Keep your pets inside as much as possible, with your windows shut and doors shut.
  • Avoid long walks and activities outdoors.
  • Learn the signs of excessive smoke inhalation:
    • Coughing
    • Trouble breathing
    • Wheezing
    • Fatigue
    • Reduced appetite
    • Reduced thirst
    • Red eyes, excessive tearing or blinking

5 Awesome Alaska Pet Shelters

Find your next furry family member at one of these amazing Alaska shelters:

1. Alaska SPCA Adoption Center, Anchorage, AK

Alaska SPCA is one of the few humane societies in the Anchorage area. Since 1955, they have saved numerous lives and are constantly working to find forever homes for the cats and dogs that come through their doors. The SPCA knows bringing a furry family member home is a tough decision, that’s why they have meet & greets to find good fits for your family.

2. Juneau Animal Rescue, Juneau, AK

Since 1963, when it was just a tiny shed, Juneau Animal Rescue has been on a mission to serve the community by promoting animal welfare and strengthening the animal-human bond. Today, with a full-size facility, they work to find homes for animals in need.

3. Kenai Animal Shelter, Kenai, AK

Run by the city of Kenai, Kenai Animal Shelter provides humane love and care to animals and works with the community to house stray and abandoned animals, as well as find permanent, loving homes.

4. Loving Companions Animal Rescue, North Pole, AK

Loving Companions Animal Rescue was created to save and care for unwanted and abandoned animals. Their 100% volunteer staff works to promote a better life for animals by providing a warm, comfortable home. They offer a variety of programs for low income pet owners, as well as a pet food bank for families in need, free transportation of pets from locations throughout the state, and veterinary assistance for emergencies.

5. Alaska Mindful Paws Homer Animal Shelter, Homer, AK

Alaska Mindful Paws (AMS) has only been around for a few short years, but they are already building a reputation of providing the best care possible for animals and their community. A complimentary “adoption packet” accompanies the adoption of each animal at AMS.

Conclusion

Finding pet insurance in Alaska isn’t so bad. If there’s one thing you take away, remember to apply for pet insurance while your puppy or kitten is under one year old and after they’re eight weeks old. This is the best way to get low prices and fewer exclusions. If you miss the age window? No worries, because insurance can still be unique for pets of all ages. Ready to get started? I’ve found that Figo is a great, affordable insurer that many pet owners love.

SwiftScore Ranking Methodology for Alaska

We ranked the best pet insurance policies in Alaska based on a variety of important factors including the following:

• Average monthly price for a 2-year-old Labrador Retriever with a $500 deductible located in Alaska with a 99516 zip code
• Coverage and benefits
• Key policy details including accidents and illnesses, surgeries, annual check-ups, cancer treatment, lab tests, and more
• AM Best rating of the underwriter
• Reimbursement percentage
• Annual benefit amount
• Technology and user experience
• Ease of sign up
• Policy language clarity
• User reviews