Pet Insurance for old dogs

briancarter

I have two pedigree chocolate Labradors. The oldest one (10 years) has hip dysplasia whilst the other has arthritis in one of his legs. Apart from that they are very healthy and have regular check-ups at the vets. We have been with M&S pet insurance for a number of years but the premiums are getting ridiculous. We are now having to pay over £1000 a year per dog for cover. We have only claimed once on the policy for an x-ray. We are investigating who to move to but are a bit unsure on what level of insurance to cover them with. The vet has already told us due to their age that there is a high risk of any operations leading to death i.e. if a large operation is needed the vet would probably suggest to euthanise them. What do people suggest we do?

dacouch

The problem you have is virtually every new Insurer will exclude all existing conditions.

Were you not able to claim on the policy for the arthritis or Hip dysplasia

sheramber

This is the dilemma all owners of old dogs have.

Do some quotes online to see what other companies will charge, bearing in mind no pre existing condition, or anything that can be related to them, will be covered.

Most companies give an introductory discount which will also cloud the issue but you may find there is not much dIfference.

Very cheap policies are not usually worth it as the company will wriggle out of paying.

Although you may not want to proceed down the route of major surgery what about a broken leg, a ruptured cruciate ligament, kidney problems requiring regular medication ( my dog needed medicine that cost £80 per month six years ago so probably a lot more now), diabetes needing insulin injections daily.

Can you pay for these from savings or with a credit card if necessary?

If so, consider dropping the insurance and putting money away each month in a separate bank account to use if needed. Your current premiums would give you £2000 per year but it takes time to build up a fund. Could you cover any deficit until you do?

You could also look at reducing the amount of annual cover you have with M& S.
You might consider switching to a policy with less cover.

there is no easy answer and only you know what you will be comfortable with.

sallyj17

Excellent advice from Sheramber. Very little to add except to beware of jumping from frying pan into the fire.. so check out other insurance companies reputation for premium increases before making any change..

You might find this list useful when looking for insurance for older pets.. http://www.pet-insurance-guide.co.uk/policy-lists/dog-insurance-for-older-dogs/

missbiggles1

Would you have the self control to save that £2k every year and so self insure?