5 Best Maine (ME) Dog Insurance Plans Compared in 2023

Updated on by Matthew H. Nash – Licensed Insurance Agent

Dedicated pet parents throughout Maine know that buying dog or puppy insurance can play a vital role in keeping their canine pals safe and healthy. However, finding the best Maine dog insurance policy can seem formidable. That is why my team and I have compiled all of the essential information for insuring Maine dogs. It doesn’t matter if you live in Bangor, Brunswick, Rangeley or Kittery. This article has everything you need to know to get started. We may receive compensation when you click on the affiliate links below.

Top ME Dog Insurance Scored, Ranked & With Cost

Use our below table to quickly compare the best dog insurance providers in Maine. The average monthly Maine-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 Maine with a 04108 zip code. Costs may vary based on age, location, coverage amount, and depending on the breed of your puppy. Prices are accurate as of May 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 Maine pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST IN MAINE

$29.67/mo

REIMBURSEMENT AMOUNT

90%

ANNUAL
 BENEFIT

$5,000

  • Figo offers users an amazing complimentary service to connect with Maine 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 Maine pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST IN MAINE

$39.17/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 MAINE

$72.90/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
4.3
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to Maine pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST IN MAINE

$60.67/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
4.2
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to Maine pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST IN MAINE

$72.16/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 Maine pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST IN MAINE

$29.67/mo

REIMBURSEMENT AMOUNT

90%

ANNUAL
 BENEFIT

$5,000

  • Figo offers users an amazing complimentary service to connect with Maine 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 Maine for the 15 most popular breeds?

The price for Maine dog insurance is almost always the same throughout the state including in Rangeley, Bangor, Skowhegan, Lewiston, Kittery, or Portland, 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 January 2023 and are subject to change. If you’re looking for the most up-to-date cost of dog insurance in Maine we suggest getting a quote directly with Figo or Wagmo.

  1. Mixed Breed – $21.79/ mo
  2. Labrador Retriever – $29.67/ mo
  3. Golden Retriever – $29.60/ mo
  4. German Shepherd – $32.00/ mo
  5. Goldendoodle – $25.75/ mo
  6. Chihuahua – $13.55/ mo
  7. Siberian Husky – $29.75/ mo
  8. Yorkshire Terrier – $18.71/ mo
  9. American Pit Bull Terrier – $32.93/ mo
  10. Australian Shepherd – $20.48/ mo
  11. Dachshund – $19.32/ mo
  12. Shih Tzu – $17.21/ mo
  13. French Bulldog – $40.73/ mo
  14. Boxer – $40.91/ mo
  15. Labradoodle – $25.75/ mo

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

Maine Dog Insurance FAQs

What is dog insurance? How useful is it in Maine?

To protect your dog to the fullest via insurance, you start by registering with an insurance company and pay the monthly premium to keep your policy active. Should your dog become ill or be involved in an accident, you’ll most likely have to pay the bills upfront. Then, you can submit a claim to your pet insurance provider to be reimbursed. It is important to note that insurance companies usually exclude pre-existing conditions from coverage, which is why we suggest getting dog insurance while your pet is still a puppy (8 weeks or older).

People in Maine find dog insurance helpful, especially as it is a state with a high cost of living in relation to average wages. Combine that with vet bills that reach $10,000 or more for cancer treatments, and you might find yourself in the dreadful position of having to euthanize your pet due to financial constraints. In such situations, having an insurance policy in place can make the difference between heartbreak and giving your furry pal a second chance at life.

At what age can I get my dog insured?

Dog insurance companies tend to require that a puppy be at least 8 weeks old before you can apply for a policy. The good news is that most insurers do not have an age limit to get coverage for your dog. Since younger dogs and puppies are cheaper to insure, we suggest getting a policy for your dog before their first birthday.

Is it worth it to get dog insurance in ME?

As mentioned above, vet bills can mount rather quickly. Combine that with the fast-rising cost-of-living, and dog insurance can ease a significant amount of strain–both emotionally and financially. It is not, after all, uncommon to find yourself spending more than $3,000 for an emergency trip to the vet at some point in your dog’s life. With this in mind, you need to decide if paying monthly insurance premiums is worth mitigating potentially high out-of-pocket expenses in the future.

What do dog insurance policies cover and exclude?

Coverage differs between pet insurance providers, but a good rule of thumb is that accidents and illnesses are covered unless expressly excluded in your dog’s policy. Covered accidents and diseases tend to fall into the “sudden and catastrophic” categories. Events such as infections, broken bones, seizures, liver disease are some examples of what a dog insurance policy would cover. On the other hand, if your dog has liver disease when you apply for pet insurance, it will be excluded from coverage as a pre-existing condition. Therefore, you will not be able to submit claims for reimbursement for this specific illness. Many pet insurance providers have “wellness” packages you can add to your basic policy. Such packages cover things such as annual check-ups, heartworm prevention, and vaccinations, to name a few.

How do I get reimbursed by my pet insurance provider?

A typical policy to have might include a 90% reimbursement amount, a $250 deductible, as well as a $20,000 maximum benefit. Let’s say there is an emergency and your dog needs a $5,000 surgery. Your insurance provider would reimburse you for $4,500 less your $250 deductible. This leaves you with an out-of-pocket cost of $750, instead of the original $5,000 you would’ve had to pay if you did not get your canine friend insured. On the other hand, Trupanion pays vets in their network directly, so you don’t have to worry about out-of-pocket costs during such trying times.

What is better: a higher or lower deductible?

This depends on your personal preferences and your financial situation. A lower deductible means you’ll spend more on your monthly premiums, but you’ll spend less in the event of a catastrophe or sudden illness. The reverse is true for a higher deductible: you’ll spend less on monthly premiums but will pay more out-of-pocket in the case of an emergency. The most common deductibles for dog insurance are either $250 or $500.

What are the restricted dog breeds for homeowners insurance in Maine?

Homeowners insurance in most states has restrictions on certain dog breeds. These often include, but are not limited to:

  • Akitas
  • Chow Chows
  • Doberman Pinschers
  • German Shepherds
  • Pit Bull Terriers
  • Rottweilers
  • Siberian Huskies
  • Wolf Hybrids

Contact your home insurance provider to verify what your policy covers regarding dog breeds and whether you need a specific liability rider.

5 Useful Strategies for Keeping Your Dog Safe & Healthy in Maine

In the last few years, Maine has ranked among the top states in the country to have a pet dog. The biggest reason is Maine’s vast outdoors, filled with walking paths, hiking trails, and expansive beaches. That said, there are some things to keep in mind so your furry friend remains safe and healthy in Maine.

1. Get your dog vaccinated for rabies

While rabies seems to be under control in Maine, it is still a concern. In this northernmost state, rabies cases typically involve raccoons and grey foxes. Rabies vaccinations are easy to come by, and your vet would be happy to administer one for your dog if they haven’t already had one.

2. Treat your dog for ticks

Maine has one of the worst tick situations in the country, and it’s becoming exponentially worse each year. Both natural and conventional tick treatments are available and come in both spot-on and collars. Note: spot-on treatments are generally applied to the back of the neck are most effective. Consult your vet for guidance.

3. Keep your dog away from skunks

Skunks are everywhere in Maine–even in the biggest city, Portland. Most dogs in Maine have at least one skunk encounter in their lives. That said, skunks are nocturnal and usually come out just before sunset. If your dog is outside in the early evening, be sure to supervise that time to avoid a skunk encounter. If your dog is unfortunate enough to get sprayed, keep them outside. Check their eyes immediately, and flush them with cold water if they look irritated. Next, it’s bath time. There are recipes online for getting the skunk oil out of your dog’s coat. Be sure to wear gloves when you do this!

4. Keep your dog active during winter

Maine has very long winters, and many people tend to hide inside. Staying inside, however, be very hard on dogs and their bodies. Make sure your dog gets plenty of fresh air and exercise daily. Dogs love playing in the snow–maybe even more than kids!

5. Make sure your dog is hydrated

Maine’s summers are getting hotter and more humid with each passing year. Be sure you keep fresh water out for your dog all day. It’s also a good idea to feed your dog hydrating foods. Kibble is very dehydrating, so to ensure hydration, you can supplement their diet with fruits, vegetables, meats, fish, or canned dog food.

5 Unique Dog Rescue Shelters in Maine

We always recommend adopting from a local shelter as opposed to buying. If you’re looking for a new furry friend, you might want to check out these five unique animal shelters in Maine.

1. PAWS in Camden, ME

PAWS is a great no-kill shelter for dogs and cats along Maine’s midcoast. In addition to matching animals with loving homes, PAWS participates actively in animal advocacy.


2. Pope Memorial Humane Society in Thomaston, ME

Pope Memorial is a no-kill Humane Society that prides itself on successfully matching pets with forever homes. They provide medical treatment and much-needed love for abandoned, neglected, homeless, and abused animals.


3. SPCA of Hancock County in Trenton, ME

One of the few animal rights advocacy groups and shelters in northern Maine, the SPCA of Hancock County fills a huge hole. Their primary role is to serve as a life-saving shelter, but they also participate in community education and animal advocacy on both the state and local levels.


4. The Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland in Westbrook, ME

The ARLGP is one of the state’s biggest animal shelters and rescue organizations. While their primary focus is finding loving homes for Maine’s neglected, abused, and homeless animals, they also coordinate adoptions for endangered animals from other states.


5. Harvest Hills Animal Shelter in Fryeburg, ME

Harvest Hills is a compassionate no-kill shelter for dogs and cats in the western and southern parts of the state. All animals that reside there are put through a socialization program, and their personalities and behaviors are evaluated to match them with loving homes.


Conclusion

As you can see, finding pet insurance for your pet dog is far easier than you might think. Getting your furry friend insured once they are more than 8-weeks-old will ensure you get the best prices on a policy. That said, getting your dog insured at any age will prove beneficial for emergencies and preventative care. My team and I have found that Figo pet insurance consistently performs the best with the lowest monthly costs throughout our extensive research.

SwiftScore Ranking Methodology for Maine

We ranked the best pet insurance policies in Maine 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 Maine with a 04108 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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