6 Best Mississippi (MS) Dog Insurance Plans Compared in 2023

Updated on by Matthew H. Nash – Licensed Insurance Agent

Dog parents throughout Mississippi want nothing but the best for much-loved four-legged friends, but sometimes emergency veterinary care can be unaffordable. Pet insurance eliminates much of that financial burden, but determining the right provider and deciphering complex policy language can be a real chore. As a licensed Mississippi insurance agent and proud dog owner, I put together this guide to help answer your questions about coverage, deductibles, exclusions, wellness plans and more. Whether you’re in Gulfport, Jackson, Tupelo, Hattiesburg or beyond, this article has everything you need to know. We may receive compensation when you click on the affiliate links below.

Top MS Dog Insurance Scored, Ranked & With Cost

Use our below table to quickly compare the best dog insurance providers in Mississippi. The average monthly Mississippi-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 Mississippi with a 39211 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.

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

STANDARD PLAN
COST IN MISSISSIPPI

$22.67/mo

REIMBURSEMENT AMOUNT

90%

ANNUAL
 BENEFIT

$20,000

  • Lemonade has the best all around Mississippi dog 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 Mississippi pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST IN MISSISSIPPI

$48.33/mo

REIMBURSEMENT AMOUNT

90%

ANNUAL
 BENEFIT

$10,000

  • Pumpkin Pet Insurance plans have extensive coverage and they always have a 90% reimbursement rate
  • Pumpkin Pet Insurance plans 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 Mississippi pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST IN MISSISSIPPI

$42.53/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
4.3
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to Mississippi pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST IN MISSISSIPPI

$40.11/mo

REIMBURSEMENT AMOUNT

90%

ANNUAL
 BENEFIT

$5,000

  • Figo offers users an amazing complimentary service to connect with Mississippi 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
4.3
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to Mississippi pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST IN MISSISSIPPI

$49.00/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
4.3
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to Mississippi pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST IN MISSISSIPPI

$44.68/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 Mississippi pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST IN MISSISSIPPI

$22.67/mo

REIMBURSEMENT AMOUNT

90%

ANNUAL
 BENEFIT

$20,000

  • Lemonade has the best all around Mississippi dog 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 insurance cost in Mississippi for the 15 most popular breeds?

The price for Mississippi dog insurance varies depending on where you live. To give you an idea we’ve collected costs 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 Mississippi we suggest getting a quote directly with Figo or Lemonade.

  1. Mixed Breed
    • Jackson – $29.45/ mo
    • Gulfport – $25.67/ mo
    • Biloxi – $25.67/ mo
  2. Labrador Retriever
    • Jackson – $40.11/ mo
    • Gulfport – $34.96/ mo
    • Biloxi – $34.96/ mo
  3. Golden Retriever
    • Jackson – $40.03/ mo
    • Gulfport – $34.89/ mo
    • Biloxi – $34.89/ mo
  4. German Shepherd
    • Jackson – $43.28/ mo
    • Gulfport – $37.72/ mo
    • Biloxi – $37.72/ mo
  5. Goldendoodle
    • Jackson – $34.83/ mo
    • Gulfport – $30.36/ mo
    • Biloxi – $30.36/ mo
  6. Chihuahua
    • Jackson – $18.33/ mo
    • Gulfport – $15.97/ mo
    • Biloxi – $15.97/ mo
  7. Siberian Husky
    • Jackson – $40.23/ mo
    • Gulfport – $35.05/ mo
    • Biloxi – $35.05/ mo
  8. Yorkshire Terrier
    • Jackson – $25.29/ mo
    • Gulfport – $22.03/ mo
    • Biloxi – $22.03/ mo
  9. American Pit Bull Terrier
    • Jackson – $44.54/ mo
    • Gulfport – $38.81/ mo
    • Biloxi – $38.81/ mo
  10. Australian Shepherd
    • Jackson – $27.69/ mo
    • Gulfport – $24.13/ mo
    • Biloxi – $24.13/ mo
  11. Dachshund
    • Jackson – $26.13/ mo
    • Gulfport – $22.77/ mo
    • Biloxi – $22.77/ mo
  12. Shih Tzu
    • Jackson – $23.27/ mo
    • Gulfport – $20.28/ mo
    • Biloxi – $20.28/ mo
  13. French Bulldog
    • Jackson – $55.08/ mo
    • Gulfport – $48.00/ mo
    • Biloxi – $48.00/ mo
  14. Boxer
    • Jackson – $55.29/ mo
    • Gulfport – $48.20/ mo
    • Biloxi – $48.20/ mo
  15. Labradoodle
    • Jackson – $34.83/ mo
    • Gulfport – $30.36/ mo
    • Biloxi – $30.36/ mo

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

Mississippi Dog Insurance FAQs

As we mentioned, there is a lot to know about dog insurance policies, what is covered, are certain breeds excluded, how old they should be, etc. We’ll break down some of the answers for you in this section.

What is a dog insurance policy?

A dog insurance policy is similar to health insurance for humans. There are policies to cover accidents or ones that insure against illness and accidents. Some companies even offer a more supplemental plan for preventative wellness care but usually require the primary policy is also purchased.

Are certain things covered and others excluded in plans?

Each dog insurance plan is different, but most policies include heart disease, vomiting, swallowing objects, hip dysplasia, cancer treatments, blood tests, medications, surgery and hospitalization, and x-rays.

Wellness is typically not covered without a separate plan and may not be offered as an option. Many dog insurance policies will not cover dental exams/cleanings (unrelated to a medical issue), cosmetic procedures, breeding and labor costs (including spay/neuter), wellness exams, and vaccines.

No pet insurance will cover pre-existing conditions, which most providers consider any illness or accident that occurred before the insurance begins or during the waiting period. All plans have a waiting period, often between 2-30 days before coverage begins but after the policy has started before anything is covered.

How old/young should a dog be for coverage? Any breed restrictions?

We suggest you start dog insurance as soon as you can, but your dog should be no younger than 8 weeks old. We did see a few plans that would not offer a policy on a dog that was 14 years or older. While most dog insurance does not have breed restrictions, most homeowners insurance does. Insurance companies will offer homeowners insurance regardless of your dog’s breed, but you have to shop around. Many providers maintain a list of restricted dogs deemed dangerous. They may refuse to offer homeowners coverage if you own one on the list or charge very high premiums to cover their liability. Mississippi is not a state where it is illegal to deny coverage based on breed restrictions. Hence, it is in your best interest to contact your homeowner’s insurance company to see what your policy states.

Are there deductibles with dog insurance? Annual limits?

Dog insurance policies operate in much the same way as auto insurance for humans. You choose a deductible amount you are comfortable with, and then you must cover services out of pocket until you reach the deductible, and then the pet insurance kicks in. You can also set the rate to be reimbursed – 70, 80, or 90%.

A plan with a $500 deductible and 80% reimbursement with a $1,000 vet visit, would make you responsible for the full amount at the office, but submit a claim to your pet insurance provider for $400 because you are responsible for the deductible ($500) and 20% of the remaining cost ($100).

The more you want to be reimbursed for, the higher your monthly premium will be, just as the higher your deductible goes, the lower your monthly premium. Many policies have an annual limit to what they are willing to reimburse per year. If you want a higher yearly limit, expect to pay a higher monthly fee. Once you have a vet bill, you can submit a claim in many instances online or through an app.

5 Ways to Keep Your Dog Safe, Happy & Healthy in Mississippi

Because Mississippi has sweltering and humid summers, with a high chance of tornadoes and tropical storms, there are several things to keep in mind, so your dog stays healthy and safe.

1. Don’t leave your puppy outside all the time

Dogs should not be left outside all day and night. They need to be out of the sun and high temperatures. If they must be outside during daylight hours, make sure there is adequate shade/covering. Water should be available at all times, inside and outdoors.

2. Be prepared for natural disasters

Have a plan in place for natural disasters and weather emergencies. Pack a bag for your pet that includes a copy of their current vaccination records, an extra medication set, a dog collar with tags and leash, collapsible food, water bowls, a towel, extra dry dog food, and bottled water.

3. Watch out for your dog eating too much sand

Along the Gulf Coast is Biloxi Beach, and frolicking around with Fido sounds like fun! Be careful, though, because dogs can ingest too much sand. Sand particles become wet and compact, leading to blockage of the intestinal tract, a hazardous condition. Keep an eye on your dog if they are digging, lapping up sandy water, or playing fetch with a sandy ball – activities that could add up to a lot of sand in your dog’s body.

4. Check the weather before doing exercise

Walking your dog to get them to exercise is a great idea, but you have to be aware of the outside temperature and its effect on the pavement. When it reaches 85 degrees and stays elevated, the ground temperature can reach 135, which could cause blisters and burns to your dog’s paw pads, as well as raise the risk of heatstroke. Place your hand on any surface – concrete, sand, asphalt, dirt – for 10 seconds to see if it feels comfortable to you.

5. Get the recommended vaccines

Make sure your dog stays healthy by getting its rabies vaccine, which is required by state law. According to the Mississippi State Department of Health, bats are the largest rabies carrier in the state, and both humans and animals can come in contact with them. Rabies cases usually turn fatal once symptoms appear, so your dog mustn’t wander around and stay away from stray animals.

5 Stellar Dog Rescue Shelters in Mississippi

There are many dogs available for adoption in rescue groups and animal shelters throughout Mississippi. If you are looking to add a new fur family member, please consider adopting from one of the organizations below.

1. Community Animal Rescue & Adoption (CARA) in Jackson, MS

Like so many non-profit shelters, CARA receives no funds from the city, state, or federal government. They raise money and work with volunteers to take care of animals that come into the shelter and provide low-cost spay/neuter services to help curb overpopulation.


2. East Mississippi Animal Rescue (EMAR) in Meridian, MS

The good people of EMAR don’t work out of a shelter; rather, they utilize foster homes to house their adoptable pets. EMAR does not shy away from “special needs” pets and has set up a fund to help dogs and cats who need a little extra medical care.


3. Animal Rescue Fund of Mississippi in Jackson, MS

Animal residents at the Animal Rescue Fund (ARF) stay as long as they need before getting adopted. ARF focuses on rehabilitating these future family pets by caring for their medical needs and working on their social skills.


4. Hope Animal Sanctuary in Grenada, MS

Hope Animal Sanctuary works in conjunction with the In Defense of Animals (IDA) global organization. While adoptions are done through the Sanctuary, they also provide permanent refuge for animals which are nearly impossible to find homes. They have experienced significant trauma through starvation and abuse at the hands of humans.


5. Mississippi Animal Rescue League in Jackson, MS

Mississippi Animal Rescue League (MARL) is a full-service animal welfare organization. Not only do they have open admissions where they take in all animals that come through their doors, they also have humane officers who investigate cruelty cases and known puppy mills.


Conclusion

It’s crucial to find the best dog insurance that meets your pet’s needs and fits within your budget. The sooner you get dog insurance, the lower your costs will be and the easier it will be to avoid pre-existing conditions that won’t have time to crop up. When you choose to get insurance, know that you protect your dog and future illnesses and injuries. We have found Lemonade pet insurance provides the best coverage at the most reasonable price.

SwiftScore Ranking Methodology for Mississippi

We ranked the best pet insurance policies in Mississippi 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 Mississippi with a 39211 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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