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2026’s Best Pet Insurance Plans

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Last updated September 2026
by  Matthew H. Nash – Licensed Insurance Agent

Over 100,000 pet owners have trusted our free service to compare and choose the best pet insurance—with the guaranteed lowest price, no risk.

Plus, when you buy pet insurance through us, we donate $15 to the following charities—giving a helping paw to pets and animals in need!

All Pets
Cats
Dogs
Average Plan Cost
The average cost is calculated using national prices for a two-year-old Labrador Retriever with a $500 deductible, based on data collected from all across the country. Learn more at the end of this page.
$51.41/mo
Reimbursement Amount
90%
Annual Benefit
$5,000
  • ASPCA makes it easy to visit any licensed vet in the U.S. or Canada. They also offer affordable “accident-only” plans in addition to their preventative care coverage
  • ASPCA has insured more than 600,000 pets while processing more than 2.2 million claims
  • Founded in 1997 and underwritten by Crum & Forster
View plans
30-day money-back guarantee
Cancel within 30 days for a full refund, as long as no claims have been made.
1
Average Plan Cost
The average cost is calculated using national prices for a two-year-old Labrador Retriever with a $500 deductible, based on data collected from all across the country. Learn more at the end of this page.
$28.69/mo
Reimbursement Amount
90%
Annual Benefit
$20,000
  • Lemonade has the best all-around pet insurance policy at the most affordable rates. Bundle with renters insurance and save 10%
  • 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
View plans
30-day money-back guarantee
Cancel within 30 days for a full refund, as long as no claims have been made.
1

79,253 people ranked Lemonade as 4.9 on

Average Plan Cost
The average cost is calculated using national prices for a two-year-old Labrador Retriever with a $500 deductible, based on data collected from all across the country. Learn more at the end of this page.
$39.73/mo
Reimbursement Amount
90%
Annual Benefit
$5,000
  • Fetch makes it easy to use any licensed vet in the U.S. or Canada
  • Once your claim is approved, you’ll be paid back up to 90% of your unexpected vet bill in as quickly as two days via direct deposit
  • Protecting 400K+ dogs and cats (and counting) & rated ‘Excellent’ on Trustpilot
View plans
30-day money-back guarantee
Cancel within 30 days for a full refund, as long as no claims have been made.
1
Average Plan Cost
The average cost is calculated using national prices for a two-year-old Labrador Retriever with a $500 deductible, based on data collected from all across the country. Learn more at the end of this page.
$37.78/mo
Reimbursement Amount
90%
Annual Benefit
$5,000
  • Figo offers users an amazing complimentary service to connect with vets via video chat 24/7
  • They have an easy-to-use pet records app and a real-time claims tracker
  • Founded in 2013 and underwritten by Independence American Insurance Company
View plans
30-day money-back guarantee
Cancel within 30 days for a full refund, as long as no claims have been made.
1
Average Plan Cost
The average cost is calculated using national prices for a two-year-old Labrador Retriever with a $500 deductible, based on data collected from all across the country. Learn more at the end of this page.
$36.02/mo
Reimbursement Amount
90%
Annual Benefit
$10,000
  • Pumpkin Pet Insurance plans have extensive coverage, competitive rates, and 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
View plans
30-day money-back guarantee
Cancel within 30 days for a full refund, as long as no claims have been made.
1
Average Plan Cost
The average cost is calculated using national prices for a two-year-old Labrador Retriever with a $500 deductible, based on data collected from all across the country. Learn more at the end of this page.
$30.66/mo
Reimbursement Amount
90%
Annual Benefit
$10,000
  • Odie has several options available to suit any pet parent’s budget, including complete coverage, injury & illness, and accident-only plans
  • They also offer a free 24/7 video chat with vets and give the option for a $40,000 annual benefit
  • Founded in 2019 and underwritten by Trisura Insurance Company
View plans
30-day money-back guarantee
Cancel within 30 days for a full refund, as long as no claims have been made.
1
Average Plan Cost
The average cost is calculated using national prices for a two-year-old Labrador Retriever with a $500 deductible, based on data collected from all across the country. Learn more at the end of this page.
$42.96/mo
Reimbursement Amount
90%
Annual Benefit
$5,000
  • Embrace offers multi-pet discounts, exam fee coverage, and a free 24/7 pet helpline
  • Their “Healthy Pet Deductible” allows your annual deductible to go down by $50 each year that you don’t receive an insurance claim reimbursement
  • Founded in 2003 and underwritten by American Modern Insurance
View plans
30-day money-back guarantee
Cancel within 30 days for a full refund, as long as no claims have been made.
1
Average Plan Cost
The average cost is calculated using national prices for a two-year-old Labrador Retriever with a $500 deductible, based on data collected from all across the country. Learn more at the end of this page.
$60.72/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
View plans
30-day money-back guarantee
Cancel within 30 days for a full refund, as long as no claims have been made.
1
Average Plan Cost
The average cost is calculated using national prices for a two-year-old Labrador Retriever with a $500 deductible, based on data collected from all across the country. Learn more at the end of this page.
$35.02/mo
Reimbursement Amount
90%
Annual Benefit
$5,000
  • Liberty Mutual makes it easy to save on pet insurance via bundling discounts
  • They offer lifetime coverage, which means your policy will not be automatically terminated due to your pet's age
  • Founded in 1912 and underwritten by Liberty Mutual Holding Company
View plans
30-day money-back guarantee
Cancel within 30 days for a full refund, as long as no claims have been made.
1
Average Plan Cost
The average cost is calculated using national prices for a two-year-old Labrador Retriever with a $500 deductible, based on data collected from all across the country. Learn more at the end of this page.
$32.27/mo
Reimbursement Amount
90%
Annual Benefit
$5,000
  • After a 365-day waiting period and continuous coverage, AKC may cover curable pre-existing conditions
  • AKC offers a 24/7 Vet Helpline to speak directly with a vet professional about your pet's health
  • Founded in 2003 and underwritten by Independence American Insurance Company
View plans
30-day money-back guarantee
Cancel within 30 days for a full refund, as long as no claims have been made.
1
Show More
Average Plan Cost
The average cost is calculated using national prices for a two-year-old Labrador Retriever with a $500 deductible, based on data collected from all across the country. Learn more at the end of this page.
$51.41/mo
Reimbursement Amount
90%
Annual Benefit
$5,000
  • ASPCA makes it easy to visit any licensed vet in the U.S. or Canada. They also offer affordable “accident-only” plans in addition to their preventative care coverage
  • ASPCA has insured more than 600,000 pets while processing more than 2.2 million claims
  • Founded in 1997 and underwritten by Crum & Forster
View plans
30-day money-back guarantee
Cancel within 30 days for a full refund, as long as no claims have been made.
Best overall
Average Plan Cost
The average cost is calculated using national prices for a two-year-old Domestic Shorthair with a $500 deductible, based on data collected from all across the country. Learn more at the end of this page.
$16.94/mo
Reimbursement Amount
90%
Annual Benefit
$20,000
  • Lemonade has the best all-around cat insurance policy at the most affordable rates. Bundle with renters insurance and save 10%
  • 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
View plans
30-day money-back guarantee
Cancel within 30 days for a full refund, as long as no claims have been made.
1

79,253 people ranked Lemonade as 4.9 on

Average Plan Cost
The average cost is calculated using national prices for a two-year-old Domestic Shorthair with a $500 deductible, based on data collected from all across the country. Learn more at the end of this page.
$18.44/mo
Reimbursement Amount
90%
Annual Benefit
$5,000
  • ASPCA makes it easy to visit any licensed vet in the US or Canada. They also offer affordable “accident-only” plans in addition to their preventative care coverage
  • ASPCA has insured more than 600,000 pets while processing more than 2.2 million claims
  • Founded in 1997 and underwritten by Crum & Forster
View plans
30-day money-back guarantee
Cancel within 30 days for a full refund, as long as no claims have been made.
1
Average Plan Cost
The average cost is calculated using national prices for a two-year-old Domestic Shorthair with a $500 deductible, based on data collected from all across the country. Learn more at the end of this page.
$20.63/mo
Reimbursement Amount
90%
Annual Benefit
$5,000
  • Fetch makes it easy to use any licensed vet in the U.S. or Canada
  • Once your claim is approved, you’ll be paid back up to 90% of your unexpected vet bill in as little as 2 days via direct deposit
  • Protecting 400K+ dogs and cats (and counting) & rated ‘Excellent’ on Trustpilot
View plans
30-day money-back guarantee
Cancel within 30 days for a full refund, as long as no claims have been made.
1
Average Plan Cost
The average cost is calculated using national prices for a two-year-old Domestic Shorthair with a $500 deductible, based on data collected from all across the country. Learn more at the end of this page.
$28.51/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
View plans
30-day money-back guarantee
Cancel within 30 days for a full refund, as long as no claims have been made.
1
Average Plan Cost
The average cost is calculated using national prices for a two-year-old Domestic Shorthair with a $500 deductible, based on data collected from all across the country. Learn more at the end of this page.
$21.37/mo
Reimbursement Amount
90%
Annual Benefit
$10,000
  • Pumpkin Cat 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
View plans
30-day money-back guarantee
Cancel within 30 days for a full refund, as long as no claims have been made.
1
Average Plan Cost
The average cost is calculated using national prices for a two-year-old Domestic Shorthair with a $500 deductible, based on data collected from all across the country. Learn more at the end of this page.
$23.89/mo
Reimbursement Amount
90%
Annual Benefit
$5,000
  • Figo offers users an amazing complimentary service to connect with 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
View plans
30-day money-back guarantee
Cancel within 30 days for a full refund, as long as no claims have been made.
1
Average Plan Cost
The average cost is calculated using national prices for a two-year-old Domestic Shorthair with a $500 deductible, based on data collected from all across the country. Learn more at the end of this page.
$39.87/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
View plans
30-day money-back guarantee
Cancel within 30 days for a full refund, as long as no claims have been made.
1
Average Plan Cost
The average cost is calculated using national prices for a two-year-old Domestic Shorthair with a $500 deductible, based on data collected from all across the country. Learn more at the end of this page.
$27.61/mo
Reimbursement Amount
90%
Annual Benefit
$5,000
  • Liberty Mutual makes it easy to save on pet insurance via bundling discounts
  • They offer lifetime coverage which means your policy will not be automatically terminated due your pets age
  • Founded in 1912 and underwritten by Liberty Mutual Holding Company
View plans
30-day money-back guarantee
Cancel within 30 days for a full refund, as long as no claims have been made.
1
Average Plan Cost
The average cost is calculated using national prices for a two-year-old Domestic Shorthair with a $500 deductible, based on data collected from all across the country. Learn more at the end of this page.
$17.36/mo
Reimbursement Amount
90%
Annual Benefit
$5,000
  • Odie has several options available to suit any pet parent’s budget including: complete coverage, injury & illness, and accident only plans
  • They also offer a free 24/7 video chat with vets
  • Founded in 2019 and underwritten by Trisura Insurance Company
View plans
30-day money-back guarantee
Cancel within 30 days for a full refund, as long as no claims have been made.
1
Average Plan Cost
The average cost is calculated using national prices for a two-year-old Domestic Shorthair with a $500 deductible, based on data collected from all across the country. Learn more at the end of this page.
$22.55/mo
Reimbursement Amount
90%
Annual Benefit
$5,000
  • After a 365 day waiting period and continuous coverage, AKC may cover curable pre-existing conditions
  • AKC offers a 24/7 Vet Helpline to speak directly with a vet professional about your pet's health
  • Founded in 2003 and underwritten by Independence American Insurance Company
View plans
30-day money-back guarantee
Cancel within 30 days for a full refund, as long as no claims have been made.
1
Show More
Average Plan Cost
The average cost is calculated using national prices for a two-year-old Domestic Shorthair with a $500 deductible, based on data collected from all across the country. Learn more at the end of this page.
$16.94/mo
Reimbursement Amount
90%
Annual Benefit
$20,000
  • Lemonade has the best all-around cat insurance policy at the most affordable rates. Bundle with renters insurance and save 10%
  • 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
View plans
30-day money-back guarantee
Cancel within 30 days for a full refund, as long as no claims have been made.
Best overall
Average Plan Cost
The average cost is calculated using national prices for a two-year-old Labrador Retriever with a $500 deductible, based on data collected from all across the country. Learn more at the end of this page.
$26.31/mo
Reimbursement Amount
90%
Annual Benefit
$20,000
  • Lemonade has the best all-around cat insurance policy at the most affordable rates. Bundle with renters insurance and save 10%
  • 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
View plans
30-day money-back guarantee
Cancel within 30 days for a full refund, as long as no claims have been made.
1

79,253 people ranked Lemonade as 4.9 on

Average Plan Cost
The average cost is calculated using national prices for a two-year-old Labrador Retriever with a $500 deductible, based on data collected from all across the country. Learn more at the end of this page.
$44.84/mo
Reimbursement Amount
90%
Annual Benefit
$5,000
  • ASPCA makes it easy to visit any licensed vet in the US or Canada. They also offer affordable “accident-only” plans in addition to their preventative care coverage
  • ASPCA has insured more than 600,000 pets while processing more than 2.2 million claims
  • Founded in 1997 and underwritten by Crum & Forster
View plans
30-day money-back guarantee
Cancel within 30 days for a full refund, as long as no claims have been made.
1
Average Plan Cost
The average cost is calculated using national prices for a two-year-old Labrador Retriever with a $500 deductible, based on data collected from all across the country. Learn more at the end of this page.
$20.63/mo
Reimbursement Amount
90%
Annual Benefit
$5,000
  • Fetch makes it easy to use any licensed vet in the U.S. or Canada
  • Once your claim is approved, you’ll be paid back up to 90% of your unexpected vet bill in as little as 2 days via direct deposit
  • Protecting 400K+ dogs and cats (and counting) & rated ‘Excellent’ on Trustpilot
View plans
30-day money-back guarantee
Cancel within 30 days for a full refund, as long as no claims have been made.
1
Average Plan Cost
The average cost is calculated using national prices for a two-year-old Labrador Retriever with a $500 deductible, based on data collected from all across the country. Learn more at the end of this page.
$57.71/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
View plans
30-day money-back guarantee
Cancel within 30 days for a full refund, as long as no claims have been made.
1
Average Plan Cost
The average cost is calculated using national prices for a two-year-old Labrador Retriever with a $500 deductible, based on data collected from all across the country. Learn more at the end of this page.
$63.48/mo
Reimbursement Amount
90%
Annual Benefit
$10,000
  • Pumpkin Cat 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
View plans
30-day money-back guarantee
Cancel within 30 days for a full refund, as long as no claims have been made.
1
Average Plan Cost
The average cost is calculated using national prices for a two-year-old Labrador Retriever with a $500 deductible, based on data collected from all across the country. Learn more at the end of this page.
$46.24/mo
Reimbursement Amount
90%
Annual Benefit
$5,000
  • Figo offers users an amazing complimentary service to connect with 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
View plans
30-day money-back guarantee
Cancel within 30 days for a full refund, as long as no claims have been made.
1
Average Plan Cost
The average cost is calculated using national prices for a two-year-old Labrador Retriever with a $500 deductible, based on data collected from all across the country. Learn more at the end of this page.
$123.20/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
View plans
30-day money-back guarantee
Cancel within 30 days for a full refund, as long as no claims have been made.
1
Average Plan Cost
The average cost is calculated using national prices for a two-year-old Labrador Retriever with a $500 deductible, based on data collected from all across the country. Learn more at the end of this page.
$55.25/mo
Reimbursement Amount
90%
Annual Benefit
$5,000
  • Liberty Mutual makes it easy to save on pet insurance via bundling discounts
  • They offer lifetime coverage which means your policy will not be automatically terminated due your pets age
  • Founded in 1912 and underwritten by Liberty Mutual Holding Company
View plans
30-day money-back guarantee
Cancel within 30 days for a full refund, as long as no claims have been made.
1
Average Plan Cost
The average cost is calculated using national prices for a two-year-old Labrador Retriever with a $500 deductible, based on data collected from all across the country. Learn more at the end of this page.
$32.63/mo
Reimbursement Amount
90%
Annual Benefit
$5,000
  • Odie has several options available to suit any pet parent’s budget including: complete coverage, injury & illness, and accident only plans
  • They also offer a free 24/7 video chat with vets
  • Founded in 2019 and underwritten by Trisura Insurance Company
View plans
30-day money-back guarantee
Cancel within 30 days for a full refund, as long as no claims have been made.
1
Average Plan Cost
The average cost is calculated using national prices for a two-year-old Labrador Retriever with a $500 deductible, based on data collected from all across the country. Learn more at the end of this page.
$64.22/mo
Reimbursement Amount
90%
Annual Benefit
$5,000
  • After a 365 day waiting period and continuous coverage, AKC may cover curable pre-existing conditions
  • AKC offers a 24/7 Vet Helpline to speak directly with a vet professional about your pet's health
  • Founded in 2003 and underwritten by Independence American Insurance Company
View plans
30-day money-back guarantee
Cancel within 30 days for a full refund, as long as no claims have been made.
1
Show More
Average Plan Cost
The average cost is calculated using national prices for a two-year-old Labrador Retriever with a $500 deductible, based on data collected from all across the country. Learn more at the end of this page.
$26.31/mo
Reimbursement Amount
90%
Annual Benefit
$20,000
  • Lemonade has the best all-around cat insurance policy at the most affordable rates. Bundle with renters insurance and save 10%
  • 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
View plans
30-day money-back guarantee
Cancel within 30 days for a full refund, as long as no claims have been made.
Best overall

How Much Does Dog and Cat Insurance Cost for the 15 Most Popular Breeds?

The price for pet insurance varies depending on where you live. To give you an idea, we’ve collected costs for the 15 most popular breeds shown below. The prices will also vary based on the age, health, and location of your pet.

All insurance prices shown below are based on a 90% reimbursement rate with a $500 deductible and a $5,000 annual benefit from Figo pet insurance. The costs are based on an average across 150 American cities (3 in each state). Please note: these prices should only be treated as a rough guide as of August 2024 and are subject to change. If you’re looking for the most up-to-date cost of pet insurance in your local area, we suggest getting a quote directly with Figo or Lemonade.

Dog insurance prices (national averages):

  • Mixed breed – $26.77/mo
  • Labrador Retriever – $37.50/mo
  • Golden Retriever – $38.44/mo
  • German Shepherd – $40.62/mo
  • Goldendoodle – $33.26/mo
  • Chihuahua – $16.37/mo
  • Siberian Husky – $38.00/mo
  • Yorkshire Terrier – $23.62/mo
  • American Pit Bull Terrier – $39.93/mo
  • Australian Shepherd – $25.07/mo
  • Dachshund – $23.81/mo
  • Shih Tzu – $22.18/mo
  • French Bulldog – $50.77/mo
  • Boxer – $50.55/mo
  • Labradoodle – $32.92/mo

Cat insurance prices (national averages):

  • Mixed breed – $15.48/mo
  • Exotic – $18.96/mo
  • Ragdoll – $20.11/mo
  • British Shorthair – $18.96/mo
  • Persian – $20.11/mo
  • Maine Coon – $20.08/mo
  • American Shorthair – $18.95/mo
  • Scottish Fold – $20.11/mo
  • Siamese – $20.11/mo
  • Himalayan – $18.77/mo
  • Bombay – $18.95/mo
  • Bengal – $18.20/mo
  • Russian Blue – $19.01/mo
  • Abyssinian – $18.25/mo
  • Sphynx – $18.57/mo

Not finding your specific breed? Lemonade pet insurance is our #1 recommendation, and they can give you a quick quote for your exact needs.

Ranking Methodology

We ranked the best pet insurance policies based on a variety of important factors, including the following:

  • National average monthly price for a two-year-old Labrador Retriever with a $500 deductible; this is how we calculate the “standard plan cost” shown above
  • Below are all the zip codes we used to get the national average prices for each pet insurance provider: AL (35206) | AK (99516) | AZ (85050) | AR (72205) | CA (90210) | CO (80238) | CT (06105) | DE (19904) | FL (33155) | GA (30331) | HI (96821) | ID (83712) | IL (60630) | IN (46229) | IA (50317) | KS (66109) | KY (40511) | LA (70112) | ME (04108) | MD (21209) | MA (02136) | MI (48201) | MN (55414) | MS (39211) | MO (63104) | MT (59101) | NE (68154) | NV (89117) | NH (03062) | NJ (07305) | NM (87120) | NY (10022) | NC (27603) | ND (58104) | OH (44102) | OK (73129) | OR (97229) | PA (19128) | RI (02909) | SC (29414) | SD (57108) | TN (38111) | TX (77054) | UT (84104) | VT (05408) | VA (23221) | WA (98108) | WV (25311) | WI (53225) | WY (82009)
  • 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

5 Useful Strategies for Keeping Your Pet Safe & Healthy

We believe that pet insurance is essential for providing your furry family member with the best odds for enjoying a long and healthy life. Regardless of your pet insurance status, nobody wants an avoidable emergency trip to the veterinarian. Especially not your four-legged friend! Here are some simple but useful tips on how to keep your animal safe and healthy:

1. Keep them hydrated!

It’s one of the most basic things for health in any living organism, yet it is often overlooked. Always make sure there is a full bowl of fresh water accessible. Be sure to change the water several times per day and be extra vigilant when the weather is hot.

2. Be conscious of your local wildlife

Every state has its unique mix of flora and fauna. Common predators in North America include coyotes, foxes, mountain lions, snakes, raccoons, and bears. Each region will have its own special set of hazards. Additionally, remember small pests such as ticks can also pose major threats to your pet.

3. Get regular veterinary exams

Just like with humans, early detection of illness in animals is the smartest way to avoid chronic disease. A licensed vet can often detect if something isn’t right with your dog or cat even before major symptoms are experienced. Also, don’t forget to get your vaccinations and medications such as heartworm pills, which many insurance policies will cover.

4. Watch out for inclement weather

No matter which part of the country you live in, there can always be unexpected weather and natural disasters. From extreme cold to sweltering heat, tornadoes, hurricanes, wildfires, and blizzards, these are all situations that can be life-threatening to your four-legged pal. When venturing out, always check the weather beforehand to ensure you’re prepared. One often overlooked example is when it’s moderately hot; pavements can be well over 125 degrees, which is hot enough to burn your pet’s paws.

5. Educate yourself on common pet allergies

Both dogs and cats are often allergic to certain foods. Many foods can also be toxic or poisonous for pets. These foods include but are not limited to pits of fruits like apricots and cherries, chocolate, coffee, alcohol, garlic, onions, dairy products, and raw/undercooked meat. It’s important that you also secure your trash so your buddy doesn’t get access to the wrong foods (even by accident).

Pet Insurance FAQs

Pet insurance is a policy that helps reimburse eligible veterinary expenses for your dog or cat—and, with a smaller pool of specialty insurers, some exotic pets like birds or turtles. Depending on the plan, it may help cover accidents, illnesses, emergency care, diagnostic tests, surgery, and prescription medications. Most plans work on reimbursement (you pay the vet, then get paid back) rather than direct payment, and pre-existing conditions are typically excluded regardless of provider.

SwiftScore™ helps rank pet insurance options by weighing signals beyond price, such as value, coverage, service, and overall fit. The comparison offers an easier, faster, and more transparent process to find the best pet insurance for your needs.

You may be able to lower your pet insurance premium by choosing a higher deductible, adjusting your reimbursement rate, comparing providers, or selecting a plan with coverage that better matches your pet’s needs.

Most pet insurance plans do not cover pre-existing conditions, which is why we recommend securing a policy when your pet is young. Definitions vary by provider, so review the policy details before applying.

Many pet owners buy pet insurance when their pet is young and healthy because coverage may be easier to secure before health issues develop. Adult and senior pets may still have options, depending on the provider.

Back up to plans

To keep The Swiftest a free online resource, we may receive advertising/referral fees when you buy a pet insurance policy through links on this page. Our extensive, unbiased research of each insurance provider, and how they compare against each other also influences the rankings. We do not feature every insurance product on the market, rather we only showcase the most trusted insurance providers. Listings on this page do not imply endorsement. Learn more on our Terms of Service page.

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