7 Best Nebraska (NE) Pet Insurance –Average Cost in 2023

Updated on by Matthew H. Nash – Licensed Insurance Agent

As a lifelong pet owner and licensed Nebraska insurance agent, I hope to provide you with the knowledge needed to purchase the right insurance. Navigating the world of dog or cat insurance in The Cornhusker State may feel daunting. This article has all the information you need to decide which policy is right for you and your pet. Whether you live in Omaha, Lincoln, Sidney, Valentine, or somewhere in between. We may receive compensation when you click on the affiliate links below.

Top NE Pet Insurance Scored, Ranked & With Cost

Use our below table to quickly compare the best pet insurance providers in Nebraska. The average monthly Nebraska-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 Nebraska with a 68154 zip code. Costs may vary based on age, location, coverage amount, and depending on the breed of your puppy. 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 Nebraska pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST IN NEBRASKA

$22.67/mo

REIMBURSEMENT AMOUNT

90%

ANNUAL
 BENEFIT

$20,000

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

STANDARD PLAN
COST IN NEBRASKA

$25.36/mo

REIMBURSEMENT AMOUNT

90%

ANNUAL
 BENEFIT

$5,000

  • Figo offers users an amazing complimentary service to connect with Nebraska 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
4.5
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to Nebraska pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST IN NEBRASKA

$39.27/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 pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST IN NEBRASKA

$53.17/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 Nebraska pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST IN NEBRASKA

$36.68/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
4.1
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to Nebraska pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST IN NEBRASKA

$66.96/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 Nebraska pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST IN NEBRASKA

$22.67/mo

REIMBURSEMENT AMOUNT

90%

ANNUAL
 BENEFIT

$20,000

  • Lemonade has the best all around Nebraska 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 Nebraska for the 15 most popular breeds?

The price for Nebraska pet 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 pet insurance in Nebraska we suggest getting a quote directly with Figo or Lemonade.

Dog Insurance Prices in Nebraska:

  1. Mixed Breed
    • Omaha – $18.63/ mo
    • Lincoln – $22.47/ mo
    • North Platte – $18.63/ mo
  2. Labrador Retriever
    • Omaha – $25.36/ mo
    • Lincoln – $30.59/ mo
    • North Platte – $25.36/ mo
  3. Golden Retriever
    • Omaha – $25.31/ mo
    • Lincoln – $30.53/ mo
    • North Platte – $25.31/ mo
  4. German Shepherd
    • Omaha – $27.36/ mo
    • Lincoln – $33.02/ mo
    • North Platte – $27.36/ mo
  5. Goldendoodle
    • Omaha – $22.02/ mo
    • Lincoln – $26.55/ mo
    • North Platte – $22.02/ mo
  6. Chihuahua
    • Omaha – $11.58/ mo
    • Lincoln – $13.97/ mo
    • North Platte – $11.58/ mo
  7. Siberian Husky
    • Omaha – $25.43/ mo
    • Lincoln – $30.68/ mo
    • North Platte – $25.43/ mo
  8. Yorkshire Terrier
    • Omaha – $15.99/ mo
    • Lincoln – $19.29/ mo
    • North Platte – $15.99/ mo
  9. American Pit Bull Terrier
    • Omaha – $28.15/ mo
    • Lincoln – $33.97/ mo
    • North Platte – $28.15/ mo
  10. Australian Shepherd
    • Omaha – $17.52/ mo
    • Lincoln – $21.13/ mo
    • North Platte – $17.52/ mo
  11. Dachshund
    • Omaha – $16.52/ mo
    • Lincoln – $19.93/ mo
    • North Platte – $16.52/ mo
  12. Shih Tzu
    • Omaha – $14.72/ mo
    • Lincoln – $17.75/ mo
    • North Platte – $14.72/ mo
  13. French Bulldog
    • Omaha – $34.83/ mo
    • Lincoln – $42.01/ mo
    • North Platte – $34.83/ mo
  14. Boxer
    • Omaha – $34.97/ mo
    • Lincoln – $42.18/ mo
    • North Platte – $34.97/ mo
  15. Labradoodle
    • Omaha – $22.02/ mo
    • Lincoln – $26.55/ mo
    • North Platte – $22.02/ mo

Cat Insurance Prices in Nebraska:

  1. Mixed Breed
    • Lincoln – $13.06/ mo
    • North Platte – $10.83/ mo
    • Omaha – $10.83/ mo
  2. American Shorthair
    • Lincoln – $15.44/ mo
    • North Platte – $12.79/ mo
    • Omaha – $12.79/ mo
  3. Bengal
    • Lincoln – $15.44/ mo
    • North Platte – $12.79/ mo
    • Omaha – $12.79/ mo
  4. Bombay
    • Lincoln – $15.44/ mo
    • North Platte – $12.79/ mo
    • Omaha – $12.79/ mo
  5. British Shorthair
    • Lincoln – $15.44/ mo
    • North Platte – $12.79/ mo
    • Omaha – $12.79/ mo
  6. Exotic
    • Lincoln – $15.44/ mo
    • North Platte – $12.79/ mo
    • Omaha – $12.79/ mo
  7. Himalayan
    • Lincoln – $15.44/ mo
    • North Platte – $12.79/ mo
    • Omaha – $12.79/ mo
  8. Maine Coon
    • Lincoln – $16.30/ mo
    • North Platte – $13.50/ mo
    • Omaha – $13.50/ mo
  9. Persian
    • Lincoln – $16.30/ mo
    • North Platte – $13.50/ mo
    • Omaha – $13.50/ mo
  10. Ragdoll
    • Lincoln – $16.30/ mo
    • North Platte – $13.50/ mo
    • Omaha – $13.50/ mo
  11. Russian Blue
    • Lincoln – $15.44/ mo
    • North Platte – $12.79/ mo
    • Omaha – $12.79/ mo
  12. Scottish Fold
    • Lincoln – $16.30/ mo
    • North Platte – $13.50/ mo
    • Omaha – $13.50/ mo
  13. Siamese
    • Lincoln – $16.30/ mo
    • North Platte – $13.50/ mo
    • Omaha – $13.50/ mo
  14. Sphynx
    • Lincoln – $15.54/ mo
    • North Platte – $12.88/ mo
    • Omaha – $12.88/ mo
  15. Abyssinian
    • Lincoln – $15.54/ mo
    • North Platte – $12.88/ mo
    • Omaha – $12.88/ mo

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

Nebraska Pet Insurance FAQs

What is pet insurance? Why is it useful in Nebraska?

To protect your pet with insurance, contact the company of your choice and apply for a policy. You will need to pay the monthly premiums to keep it active. Should your furry friend have an accident or become ill, you must pay the vet bills upfront. Then, you can submit a claim to be reimbursed. It is important to note that insurance companies tend to exclude pre-existing conditions, which is why we suggest getting your pet insured while it is still a juvenile (after 8 weeks of age).

Pet insurance is helpful in Nebraska, particularly concerning emergency procedures, such as those for cancer, that can run as high as $7,000. Uninsured pet owners often have to put their pets down because they cannot afford the necessary treatment. Insurance eliminates this unfortunate potential.

How old does my pet need to be to get insured?

To put a policy into place, most pet insurance companies require that dogs and cats be at least 8-weeks of age. (For other pets, consult your insurance provider.) However, most companies do not have an age limit when it comes to insuring your pet. Keep in mind: the younger the animal, the cheaper they are to insure, which is all the more reason to get pet insurance before your little pal’s first birthday.

Is it worth getting pet insurance in NE?

Pet insurance is worth it for pet owners in any state, and Nebraska is no different. It is not uncommon throughout a pet’s life to make an urgent visit to the vet, which could end up costing you $3,000 or more. You need to decide if paying monthly premiums offsets potential high out-of-pocket bills in the future.

What does pet insurance include and exclude?

Coverage differs for each pet insurance company. On the whole, illnesses or accidents that are considered “sudden and catastrophic” are covered. Allergies, broken bones, urinary issues, and infections are some examples. On the other hand, if your pet has an ailment before or when applying for coverage, it will be deemed a pre-existing condition. You are not able to submit claims for pre-existing conditions. On a more positive note, several providers have “wellness” packages, which are add-ons that include care such as physical exams, heartworm prevention (for dogs), and vaccinations, to name a few.

How does reimbursement work?

For our purposes, let’s imagine that you have a pet insurance policy that has a $250 deductible, a 90% reimbursement, and a $20,000 annual maximum benefit. And then something happens, and your pet needs an emergency surgery that costs $8,000. In this case, your insurance company would reimburse you $7,200 minus your $250 deductible. This leaves you to pay only $1050 instead of the original $8,000. One pet insurance provider, Trupanion, is an exception since they pay veterinarians in their networks directly, saving you the stress of having to pay upfront and wait for reimbursement.

Is it better to have a higher or lower deductible?

This is a matter of personal preference and financial circumstance—a lower deductible results in higher monthly premiums but lower out-of-pocket expenses in emergencies. In contrast, lower monthly premium payments result in higher out-of-pocket costs for urgent care. You will need to run the numbers and decide what works best for your situation. Most providers offer user-friendly calculators you can use when requesting a quote. That said, we have found that most pet owners prefer either a $250 or a $500 deductible.

Are there any restricted breeds for homeowners insurance in Nebraska?

Like most states, Nebraska has restricted dog breeds for homeowners insurance. Such breeds may include, but are not limited to:

  • American Bulldogs
  • American Staffordshire Terrier
  • Bull Mastiffs
  • Doberman Pinschers
  • German Shepherds
  • Pitbull Terriers
  • Rottweilers
  • Wolfhounds

It is always a good idea to get in touch with your home insurance provider to verify what your policy includes or excludes in terms of dog breeds and to see if you will need a specific liability rider. Should you have a different animal, it is also worth double-checking with your provider regarding any possible restrictions.

5 Useful Strategies for Keeping Your Pets Safe & Healthy in Nebraska

Even though Nebraska is one of the most pet-friendly states in the country, there are some things you can do to keep your pet safe and healthy.

1. Keep your pet hydrated

Hydration is one of the most critical factors for promoting good health in pets. It is particularly crucial during Nebraska’s hot and humid summer months. Furthermore, be sure to wash your pet’s water bowl daily, as bacteria can build up along the edges of the bowl. While having fresh water available at all times is essential, adding a bit of water to their food also works wonders. You can mix it in with either dry or canned food, which will allow your pet’s body to absorb the moisture better.

2. Treat your pet for fleas and ticks

Nebraska’s most common ticks are the lone star tick and the American dog tick, both of which are three-host ticks. While Lyme disease is not very common in the state, the American dog tick transmits a bacteria that causes Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Fleas, as in most places across the country, are prevalent. To protect your pet, you can buy a tick and flea collar s or spot-on treatments (generally, the more effective choice).

3. Get your pet vaccinated for rabies

In Nebraska, rabies is most commonly found in skunks, foxes, and to a lesser degree, raccoons. Remember, it takes about a month for the vaccine to become fully infective in your pet’s body.

4. Protect your pet from predators

Coyotes, foxes, eagles, and snakes are just a few animals in Nebraska that might prey on your pets. To minimize this risk, do not leave your pets outdoors unsupervised around sunset and sunrise, as most of the predators mentioned above are nocturnal.

5. Prepare an emergency bag

Nebraska experiences the highest number of tornadoes of any state in the nation. Preparing for natural disasters includes preparing on behalf of your pets. This is why we suggest having a “go” bag in place for your pet that contains food, water, bowls, medicine, and leashes. (If you have a cat, you can have a small litter box with litter to take with you.) Your pet’s carrier should be easily accessible and lined with a cushion or thick blanket as well as a pee-pad.

5 Unique Pet Rescue Shelters in Nebraska

If you’re thinking about getting a pet, we believe adopting is the best way to find your new companion.

1. Animal Shelter of Northeast Nebraska in Norfolk, NE

This shelter plays a pivotal role in the community as it has been the only animal welfare organization for quite a long time. They house and rehabilitate dogs, cats, and other companion critters before adopting them out.


2. Hearts United for Animals in Auburn, NE

Hearts United is a no-kill shelter that takes in animals from all over the country, giving them food, love, medical treatment, and comfort while they wait for their forever family to come along. They offer emergency medical care for animals in need and even take part in puppy mill rescue missions.


3. Jeanette Hunt Animal Shelter in Blair, NE

The JHAS is home to many cats and dogs of all ages that require homes with loving, responsible humans. Their adoption services include primary medical care for your pet, such as spaying/neutering, vaccinations, monthly tick and flea medication, deworming, and heartworm testing and medicine (for dogs).


4. Homeless No More Cat Rescue in Fairbury, NE

HNM is a small sanctuary that rescues cats of all types, including those with special needs. They also have a network of foster homes that allows them to support and adopt out more cats than they would otherwise. All cats at HNM and in their foster homes receive the necessary veterinary care, food, water, love, and socialization until a loving and kind permanent home is found for them.


5. York Adopt-a-Pet in York, NE

This remarkable place provides respite and rehabilitation for abandoned, abused, and neglected cats and dogs. Moreover, they participate in the community to promote animal welfare and enforce animal cruelty laws.


Conclusion

As you can see, finding the best pet insurance in Nebraska is relatively straightforward. We suggest getting pet insurance once your animal is still a juvenile. When it comes to insuring your pets, remember the sooner, the better. The younger your pet, the cheaper your insurance premiums and fewer restrictions you’ll have with things such as pre-existing conditions. Nevertheless, pet insurance is a good idea at any age because it can be helpful in emergencies and for promoting preventative care and wellbeing. Our comprehensive research shows Lemonade pet insurance consistently performs the best and has the lowest monthly premiums.

SwiftScore Ranking Methodology for Nebraska

We ranked the best pet insurance policies in Nebraska 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 Nebraska with a 68154 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