6 Best Arkansas (AR) Pet Insurance –Average Cost in 2023

Updated on by Matthew H. Nash – Licensed Insurance Agent

These days, there are many ways to take care of our furry companions, and buying pet insurance is one step to longer, healthier lives. As a lifelong pet owner and Arkansas insurance agent, I want to help take some of the mystery out of pet insurance in the Natural State. From Little Rock to Fayetteville, Jonesboro to Pine Bluff, or wherever you call home in Arkansas, there is an insurance plan that meets your pet’s needs. We may receive compensation when you click on the affiliate links below.

Top AR Pet Insurance Scored, Ranked & With Cost

Use our below table to quickly compare the best pet insurance providers in Arkansas. The average monthly Arkansas-specific prices shown are based on a healthy 2-year-old Labrador Retriever with a $500 deductible and 90% reimbursement amount who is located in Arkansas with a 72205 zip code. Costs may vary based on age, location, coverage amount, and depending on the breed of your pet. Prices are accurate as of August 2022 and are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please visit the provider website.

lemonade
4.9
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to Arkansas pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST IN ARKANSAS

$26.75/mo

REIMBURSEMENT AMOUNT

90%

ANNUAL
 BENEFIT

$20,000

  • Lemonade has the best all around Arkansas pet insurance policy at the most affordable rates
  • Their user experience is world class and it’s easy to get support from their award-winning customer service team
  • Founded in 2015 as a certified B Corp, Lemonade donates unclaimed premium dollars to nonprofit organizations selected by policyholders
4.6
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to Arkansas pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST IN ARKANSAS

$33.57/mo

REIMBURSEMENT AMOUNT

90%

ANNUAL
 BENEFIT

$5,000

  • Their “Healthy Pet Deductible” allows your annual deductible to go down by $50 each year that you don’t receive an insurance claim reimbursement
  • Embrace paid 93% of claims in 2019 and their member portal is user-friendly
  • Founded in 2003 and underwritten by American Modern Insurance
4.5
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to Arkansas pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST IN ARKANSAS

$40.97/mo

REIMBURSEMENT AMOUNT

90%

ANNUAL
 BENEFIT

$20,000

  • They offer up to 100% reimbursement with a $20,000 annual maximum benefit for a reasonable fee and have fast reimbursement options
  • Wagmo Wellness plans reimburse you for the routine and preventative care you do for your pets annually
  • Founded in 2017 and underwritten by National Specialty Insurance Company
4.4
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST IN ARKANSAS

$61.28/mo

REIMBURSEMENT AMOUNT

90%

ANNUAL
BENEFIT

$10,000

  • Pumpkin Pet Insurance plans have extensive coverage and they always have a 90% reimbursement rate
  • They have no breed or upper age restrictions, and dental illness and hereditary conditions are covered at no extra cost
  • Founded in 2020 and underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company
4.4
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to Arkansas pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST IN ARKANSAS

$39.17/mo

REIMBURSEMENT AMOUNT

90%

ANNUAL
 BENEFIT

$5,000

  • Figo offers users an amazing complimentary service to connect with Arkansas vets via video chat 24/7
  • They also have an easy-to-use pet records app and real time claims tracker
  • Founded in 2013 and underwritten by Independence American Insurance Company
4.4
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to Arkansas pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST IN ARKANSAS

$43.25/mo

REIMBURSEMENT AMOUNT

90%

ANNUAL
 BENEFIT

Unlimited

  • Trupanion is the only provider on our list that has an unlimited annual benefit with no payout limits
  • They are unique in that they offer “Vet Direct Pay” instead of reimbursements
  • Founded in 1999 and underwritten by American Pet Insurance Company

lemonade
4.9
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to Arkansas pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST IN ARKANSAS

$26.75/mo

REIMBURSEMENT AMOUNT

90%

ANNUAL
 BENEFIT

$20,000

  • Lemonade has the best all around Arkansas pet insurance policy at the most affordable rates
  • Their user experience is world class and it’s easy to get support from their award-winning customer service team
  • Founded in 2015 as a certified B Corp, Lemonade donates unclaimed premium dollars to nonprofit organizations selected by policyholders

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

The price for Arkansas pet insurance varies depending on where you live. To give you an idea we’ve collected prices for three cities shown below for dogs and then cats. The prices will also 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 January 2023 and are subject to change. If you’re looking for the most up-to-date cost of pet insurance in Arkansas we suggest getting a quote directly with Figo or Lemonade.

Dog Insurance Prices in Arkansas:

  1. Mixed Breed
    • Fayetteville – $24.84/ mo
    • Hope – $18.79/ mo
    • Little Rock – $27.67/ mo
  2. Labrador Retriever
    • Fayetteville – $33.83/ mo
    • Hope – $25.60/ mo
    • Little Rock – $37.68/ mo
  3. Golden Retriever
    • Fayetteville – $33.75/ mo
    • Hope – $25.56/ mo
    • Little Rock – $37.60/ mo
  4. German Shepherd
    • Fayetteville – $36.50/ mo
    • Hope – $27.62/ mo
    • Little Rock – $40.64/ mo
  5. Goldendoodle
    • Fayetteville – $29.37/ mo
    • Hope – $22.22/ mo
    • Little Rock – $32.71/ mo
  6. Chihuahua
    • Fayetteville – $15.45/ mo
    • Hope – $11.70/ mo
    • Little Rock – $17.20/ mo
  7. Siberian Husky
    • Fayetteville – $33.92/ mo
    • Hope – $25.67/ mo
    • Little Rock – $37.78/ mo
  8. Yorkshire Terrier
    • Fayetteville – $21.33/ mo
    • Hope – $16.14/ mo
    • Little Rock – $23.76/ mo
  9. American Pit Bull Terrier
    • Fayetteville – $37.56/ mo
    • Hope – $28.41/ mo
    • Little Rock – $41.83/ mo
  10. Australian Shepherd
    • Fayetteville – $23.34/ mo
    • Hope – $17.68/ mo
    • Little Rock – $26.01/ mo
  11. Dachshund
    • Fayetteville – $22.03/ mo
    • Hope – $16.66/ mo
    • Little Rock – $24.54/ mo
  12. Shih Tzu
    • Fayetteville – $19.62/ mo
    • Hope – $14.85/ mo
    • Little Rock – $21.87/ mo
  13. French Bulldog
    • Fayetteville – $46.45/ mo
    • Hope – $35.15/ mo
    • Little Rock – $51.75/ mo
  14. Boxer
    • Fayetteville – $46.64/ mo
    • Hope – $35.30/ mo
    • Little Rock – $91.54/ mo
  15. Labradoodle
    • Fayetteville – $29.37/ mo
    • Hope – $22.22/ mo
    • Little Rock – $32.71/ mo

Cat Insurance Prices in Arkansas:

  1. Mixed Breed
    • Fayetteville – $14.45/ mo
    • Hope – $10.93/ mo
    • Little Rock – $16.08/ mo
  2. American Shorthair
    • Fayetteville – $17.08/ mo
    • Hope – $12.92/ mo
    • Little Rock – $19.01/ mo
  3. Bengal
    • Fayetteville – $17.08/ mo
    • Hope – $12.92/ mo
    • Little Rock – $19.01/ mo
  4. Bombay
    • Fayetteville – $17.08/ mo
    • Hope – $12.92/ mo
    • Little Rock – $19.01/ mo
  5. British Shorthair
    • Fayetteville – $17.08/ mo
    • Hope – $12.92/ mo
    • Little Rock – $19.01/ mo
  6. Exotic
    • Fayetteville – $17.08/ mo
    • Hope – $12.92/ mo
    • Little Rock – $19.01/ mo
  7. Himalayan
    • Fayetteville – $17.08/ mo
    • Hope – $12.92/ mo
    • Little Rock – $19.01/ mo
  8. Maine Coon
    • Fayetteville – $18.01/ mo
    • Hope – $13.62/ mo
    • Little Rock – $20.70/ mo
  9. Persian
    • Fayetteville – $18.01/ mo
    • Hope – $13.62/ mo
    • Little Rock – $20.07/ mo
  10. Ragdoll
    • Fayetteville – $18.01/ mo
    • Hope – $13.62/ mo
    • Little Rock – $20.07/ mo
  11. Russian Blue
    • Fayetteville – $17.08/ mo
    • Hope – $12.92/ mo
    • Little Rock – $19.01/ mo
  12. Scottish Fold
    • Fayetteville – $18.01/ mo
    • Hope – $13.62/ mo
    • Little Rock – $20.07/ mo
  13. Siamese
    • Fayetteville – $18.01/ mo
    • Hope – $13.62/ mo
    • Little Rock – $20.07/ mo
  14. Sphynx
    • Fayetteville – $17.18/ mo
    • Hope – $12.92/ mo
    • Little Rock – $19.01/ mo
  15. Abyssinian
    • Fayetteville – $17.18/ mo
    • Hope – $12.92/ mo
    • Little Rock – $19.01/ mo

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

Arkansas Pet Insurance FAQs

What is considered pet insurance?

Pet insurance is a policy purchased by a pet owner to help with the costs of veterinary bills. Pet insurance plans vary by provider but are typically broken down into two main categories – accidents only and accidents and illness. Accident coverage is things like broken bones, swallowed objects, x-rays, diagnostic tests, and surgery. Plans that also include illness may cover hospitalization, prescription medication, cancer treatment, and blood tests. Some providers may offer more of a wellness plan as a supplemental to one of the major plans to cover things like vaccines, dental check-ups, and routine health exams.

How does pet insurance work?

There are no networks for pet insurance; you can use any veterinary doctor of your choosing. Plans will have a deductible, an amount you must cover before the insurance policy can start reimbursing. After a visit to the veterinarian, a bill can be submitted as a claim, often online using an app or client portal, though some companies do accept mailing a copy of the invoice to them. Depending on your pet insurance policy, reimbursements are made as a percentage, the most common being 70, 80 or 90%. Unless you choose otherwise, plans will have an annual limit, the maximum amount you can be reimbursed for that year. For example, if a vet office visit costs $1,000, and your deductible is $500, you will pay $500 out-of-poket, and submit a claim for the remaining $500. If you chose a reimbursement rate of 80%, you can expect to get a refund of $400.

Are there things not covered under pet insurance?

Yes, no pet insurance policy will cover services for what is referred to as pre-existing conditions. This type of accident or illness occurred before purchasing a plan or during the waiting period. Most policies have a waiting period of 2-15 days once you buy a plan but before the coverage actually begins when you cannot submit claims for vet visits. Unless you purchase a preventative care plan along with the main policy, wellness items such as vaccines, spay/neuter, cosmetic procedures, dental check-ups, and pregnancy/birth care will not be covered.

Can my dog be covered if he’s older? How young can a kitten be for a plan?

It is important to review many different pet insurance plans before you make a decision. Some plans will not cover dogs over 14 years old or cats over 16 so it’s essential to do your homework. As a pet ages, the monthly premium gets higher as there is more chance of illness and injuries. Typically you cannot start a policy before a puppy is 8 weeks old and a kitten is 6 weeks old. Policies are based on location, age, gender, and breed of the pet, among other criteria so you want to find a plan that works best for your needs.

Will homeowners insurance restrict certain dog breeds?

The main factor influencing what homeowners insurance will cover in terms of pets is a local ordinance against certain dog breeds. In several cities across Arkansas, local governments have banned specific breeds within their municipality meaning you cannot own a dog of that breed, most often the pit bull. Homeowners’ policies are usually allowed to set their own terms as very few states have laws on the books prohibiting this type of coverage based on breed. Look for wording in the contract about dangerous or vicious breeds, excluded or prohibited breeds, or aggressive dogs.

5 Strategies for Keeping Your Pets Happy & Healthy in Arkansas

1. Make sure your pet has proper shelter

Arkansas experiences milder winters than some states but that doesn’t mean it’s not cold. If you keep your pet outdoors, know that Arkansas law states you must provide a three-sided shelter with covering (roof) to help combat winds and colder temperatures. Hay or blankets can be used for the flooring and if you have electricity you can run to the shelter, a heat lamp out of reach of your pet is a good idea, too. You may want to invest in a heated water bowl if you do have electricity near the shelter so the water does not freeze.

2. Give your furry friend enough exercise

A simple way to keep your dog healthy is to make sure they get enough exercise. Arkansas is home to many nature parks and wilderness, great areas to walk your dogs or let them run to burn off some energy. Always make sure your dog is microchipped and/or has a collar with registration tag and contact info in case you become separated from your pet. Bring fresh, cool water and a collapsible bowl for breaks along the trail.

3. Be conscious of ticks

While out walking your dog, be aware of low growing plants. Arkansas is in tick season year-round. Ticks wait on tall grasses or in dense vegetation and then hop on to skin or fur as you walk by. Pets can get diseases from ticks and bring the ticks into the home. After a walk, check your dog for ticks before they get back in the car or come back to the house. Mow your yard regularly to prevent overgrowth. Talk to your veterinarian about oral medication or topical treatments that can be used to prevent infection from tick bites.

4. Don’t leave your pet alone in a vehicle

Most of Arkansas’ weather can be described as humid subtropical in the summer months. If you must take your pets somewhere in the car, do not leave them inside for any length of time. Temperatures inside a car are usually 20 degrees hotter than outside and climbs very quickly. Parking in shade or even cracking the window will not cool down the vehicle. Pets exposed to high temperatures can experience heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and brain damage, leading to death. Leave your pets at home unless you can bring them inside wherever you are going.

5. Have plan for emergencies

Since parts of Arkansas are considered to be in Tornado Alley, it is important to make sure you are prepared for an emergency involving your pet. Have a pet carrier or cage available for each pet. All pets should be current on vaccinations if you would need to have them stay temporarily in an animal shelter. Have a leash, collar, registered dog tags, and/or contact info on the tags. Pack some dry food and bottled water to take with you along with collapsible bowls. If water is going to be scarce, you may want to bring some wet food as it provides a small amount of hydration. If your pet takes medication, have an extra supply for emergencies.

5 Top Pet Rescue Shelters in Arkansas

1. Needy Paws Animal Shelter in Clarksville, AR

Operating as an extension of the River Valley Humane Society, Needy Paws has been serving the community since 1997. They care for sick, injured, homeless and abused pets who are waiting for their forever home. Needy Paws is a no-kill shelter and they work hard to place pets with the right family.


2. Have a Heart Pet Shelter in Yellville, AR

Nestled in the Ozarks is a small rescue shelter with a big heart. Have a Heart Pet Shelter serves the north-central Arkansas community to rescue abandoned dogs and cats. The shelter is run solely by volunteers from fostering, dog walking, adoptions, and caring for the animals.


3. Northeast Arkansas Humane Society in Jonesboro, AR

The NEA Humane Society has been going strong for 50 years. Their focus is on surrendered or abandoned pets. Because animal overpopulation is such an issue, the shelter offers low-cost spay/neuter services to low-income families through their medical clinics.


4. Union County Animal Protection Society (UCAPS) in El Dorado, AR

UCAPS is dedicated to the humane treatment of animals and educating the public about animal welfare. They offer free programs to local organizations, churches and schools in south Arkansas to teach children about overpopulation and the ethical treatment of pets.


5. Wynne Animal Rescue Shelter in Wynne, AR

Wynne Friends of Animals owns and operates this rehabilitative sanctuary located in northeast Arkansas. They have earned a solid reputation in the community, taking the Best Shelter in Arkansas award every year since 2007. The shelter houses 125-150 dogs a day on average, taking the time to evaluate each one before the pet moves on to their new home.


Conclusion

There are many wonderful pets available for adoption. One of the best things you can do for them is to have pet insurance in place so those unexpected mishaps don’t become a financial burden. If you purchase a policy while young, it will help avoid pre-existing conditions, but even an insurance plan for an older pet is well worth the cost.

Lemonade pet insurance is our #1 recommendation for Arkansas since they have the best mix of coverage and lowest monthly price.

SwiftScore Ranking Methodology for Arkansas

We ranked the best pet insurance policies in Arkansas 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 Arkansas with a 72205 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