6 Best Kentucky (KY) Dog Insurance Plans Compared in 2023

Updated on by Matthew H. Nash – Licensed Insurance Agent

Kentucky dog owners know that having insurance is one of the prime ways of ensuring their four-legged friend can get lifesaving veterinary care anytime, regardless of cost. However, as a nationally licensed insurance agent and devoted dog owner, I know it can be overwhelming to shop for dog insurance, especially regarding policy jargon. So my team and I have done the legwork to save you the hassle and stress of researching it on your own. Whether you live in Ashland, Lexington, Grayson, Bowling Green or somewhere in between, this article has everything you need to know about the best Kentucky dog insurance plans. We may receive compensation when you click on the affiliate links below.

Top KY Dog Insurance Scored, Ranked & With Cost

Use our below table to quickly compare the best dog insurance providers in Kentucky. The average monthly Kentucky-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 Kentucky with a 40511 zip code. Costs may vary based on age, location, coverage amount, and depending on the breed of your puppy. Prices are accurate as of January 2023 and are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please visit the provider website.

4.7
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to Kentucky pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST IN KENTUCKY

$27.94/mo

REIMBURSEMENT AMOUNT

90%

ANNUAL
 BENEFIT

$5,000

  • Figo offers users an amazing complimentary service to connect with Kentucky 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
4.6
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to Kentucky pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST IN KENTUCKY

$36.00/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
4.5
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to Kentucky pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST IN KENTUCKY

$40.76/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
4.4
  • 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 KENTUCKY

$74.09/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
4.2
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to Kentucky pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST IN KENTUCKY

$56.70/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

figo
4.7
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to Kentucky pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST IN KENTUCKY

$27.94/mo

REIMBURSEMENT AMOUNT

90%

ANNUAL
 BENEFIT

$5,000

  • Figo offers users an amazing complimentary service to connect with Kentucky 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

How much does dog insurance cost in Kentucky for the 15 most popular breeds?

The price for Kentucky dog insurance varies depending on where you live. To give you an idea we’ve collected prices for three cities shown below. 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 dog insurance in Kentucky we suggest getting a quote directly with Figo or Wagmo.

  1. Mixed Breed – $20.51/ mo
  2. Labrador Retriever – $27.94/ mo
  3. Golden Retriever – $27.86/ mo
  4. German Shepherd – $30.13/ mo
  5. Goldendoodle – $24.25/ mo
  6. Chihuahua – $12.76/ mo
  7. Siberian Husky – $28.01/ mo
  8. Yorkshire Terrier – $17.60/ mo
  9. American Pit Bull Terrier – $31.01/ mo
  10. Australian Shepherd – $19.28/ mo
  11. Dachshund – $18.19/ mo
  12. Shih Tzu – $16.20/ mo
  13. French Bulldog – $38.35/ mo
  14. Boxer – $38.50/ mo
  15. Labradoodle – $24.25/ mo

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

FAQ’s About Kentucky Dog Insurance

Is it worth purchasing dog insurance in Kentucky?

As mentioned previously, accidents and illness are unavoidable, resulting in astronomical vet bills, especially as your dog gets older. Most dog owners say they spend upwards of $3,000 and sometimes more in the event of an emergency at least once throughout their dog’s life. It is a personal decision that takes thoughtful contemplation to decide whether or not it’s best to pay the monthly premium rather than getting stuck with a very high medical bill to be paid out of pocket later on down the road. Kentucky veterinarians, as a whole, charge above the national average, so keep that in mind when deciding whether or not dog insurance is worth it for you.

What is dog insurance and why is it important?

Dog insurance pays, partly or in total, for veterinary treatment of the insured person’s ill or injured pet. Just like with any insurance, you’ll need to sign up for a policy through an insurance company and pay a monthly premium to keep an active policy. If your dog should happen to get sick or get hurt, it usually is mandatory to pay the vet bill up front and wait to be reimbursed by your chosen insurance company. It is helpful to know that insurers will likely exclude a pre-existing condition so the sooner you insure your dog the better. Keep in mind most companies won’t allow you to insure a dog until it is 8 weeks old.

Having dog insurance in Kentucky is essential because vet bills can skyrocket when it comes to cancer treatment therapies which can set you back $10,000 or more. Pet owners who are not insured will likely be tasked with one of the most challenging decisions of their lives and have to choose to euthanize their animal just because they don’t have the means to pay for the expensive treatments or procedures. One exception is Trupanion, which will pay your bill without you having to pay first out of pocket if your vet is within their network.

How young is too young for my puppy to be insured?

A lot of the major companies do not have an age restriction or requirement, but some do. In that case, the age at which they’ll start to insure is usually around 8 weeks old. Generally speaking, it is much more affordable to insure a younger canine, so that is why it is recommended that you purchase your dog’s policy before they turn a year old.

What is covered and what’s not?

Your coverage will vary depending on the provider you choose, but typically, anything you can think of is included in the policy unless otherwise specified. Most likely, something classified as “sudden and catastrophic” will be insured. Covered issues typically include an allergic reaction, an ear infection, a fractured or broken bone, or stomach trouble. The kinds of things that may not be eligible to claim are pre-existing conditions like if your dog had kidney disease or cancer before you applied for insurance. Sometimes insurance providers offer add-on packages or “wellness” packages to cover routine and preventative care for vaccinations and checkups as well as heartworm prevention.

Is it best to find a policy with a lower deductible?

Although most customers choose a deductible of $250 to $500, that is entirely up to you based on your current financial situation. Some insurers provide a simple calculator for your use which is helpful when looking into a quote. Just keep in mind that a lower deductible will usually mean a more significant monthly payment, meaning you’ll pay more money out of your pocket as a monthly premium; however, you will be covered for more when you make a claim.

How will I be reimbursed?

Imagine that you have a policy that has an 80% reimbursement amount with a deductible amount of $200 and an annual max benefit up to $20,000. Now think about a situation that will cost you $1,000 worth of vet bills. In this case, your insurance provider will give you back $800 minus your deductible of $200. This means you end up paying $400 out of pocket rather than $1,000.

Are any breeds of dogs excluded in homeowners insurance in Kentucky?

Most states do have certain restricted dog breeds when it comes to homeowners insurance. This can include –

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

There may be other restrictions bit it all depends on your insurer. Contact your provider to see whether or not you will need a specific liability rider and which breeds are excluded.

5 Practical Strategies To Keep Your Dog Healthy And Safe in Kentucky

1. Keep your puppy hydrated

Always make sure your dog has a full water bowl and is not allowed to be kept outdoors in direct sunlight to avoid dehydration.

2. Avoid trash cans

Keep your dog away from trash cans, especially when they contain chicken bones as they can splinter in your dog’s throat and are a choking hazard.

3. Watch out for coyote traps and snares

In some areas of Kentucky, coyotes are a huge problem. If you live in a coyote-infested area, it would be wise to never leave your dog outside unattended. According to a publication from the University of Kentucky, coyotes are not a protected species in the state. It may be helpful to know, they may be taken year-round by hunting or with traps or non-locking snares during the furbearer trapping season. Check all guidelines, but one rule is that coyotes may be hunted during daylight hours only.

4. Get regular check-ups

Yearly checkups and vaccine schedules can help prevent issues and detect disease early enough to take care of anything that may come up.

5. Be cognizant of the Kentuckian wildlife

While walking your dog or letting him out, try and pay attention to any wildlife hanging around. In Kentucky, skunks are the most likely animal to have rabies, according to the CDC. Bats come in at a close second.

5 Great Dog Rescues/Shelter in Kentucky

Are you ready to add a new dog to your family? Please check out these excellent animal shelters in Kentucky. Adopt, don’t shop!

1. Kentucky Humane Society – Louisville, KY

This shelter throws regular fundraisers to benefit animals in need. The most recent is called “Woofstock: Tuxes & Tails Gala” with a hippy 70’s themed reception, dinner, and after-party. It’s beautiful what they’re doing to raise awareness and money for dogs in need. You can also adopt dogs, cats, or even horses from them, and they have animal grooming and doggy daycare.


2. Franklin County Humane Society – Frankfort, KY

They have an excellent recently built shelter with amenities and all the comforts a dog could ask for. They care about animals, and it shows. They also have a thrift store called “A New Leash On Life,” and all net profits go to animals in need.


3. Floyd County Animal Shelter – Prestonsburg, KY

This shelter is fantastic and unique, featuring one “Celebrity” pet a week in ads on the local news station. You can also catch them in a live segment on the morning news on the 2nd Wednesday of every month. They say you’d better call the shelter fast if you’re watching live because the featured pet is usually adopted quickly!


4. Grant County Animal Shelter – Williamstown, KY

Another great shelter with a low-cost spay/neuter clinic. They even work with volunteer veterinarians who donate their time to give you a free wellness exam for your newly adopted pet!


pet insurance

5. Campbell County Animal Shelter – Melbourne, KY

This place lets you renew your dog’s license with them by mail and also has a spay/neuter clinic on site.


Please visit one of these great shelters in Kentucky to find your best cat or dog buddy. Most of these shelters have a spot on their website for monetary or items needed, so please check them out and help these shelter animals even if it isn’t the right time for you to adopt.

Conclusion

Purchasing the right insurance for your dog in Kentucky doesn’t have to be a chore and doesn’t have to break the bank. It will be very beneficial in the long run, so please consider getting a puppy or a fully grown dog insurance policy. Remember, though, the earlier, the better when it comes to disease prevention and policy price. Our research shows that Figo pet insurance has the lowest monthly premiums and was the best performer across the board.

SwiftScore Ranking Methodology for Kentucky

We ranked the best pet insurance policies in Kentucky 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 Kentucky with a 40511 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

Other state dog insurance resources

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