Best Pet Insurance Companies in Des Moines

Frequently Asked Questions

• Do all veterinarians in Des Moines accept pet insurance?

  In Des Moines, pet insurance operates as an indemnity insurance model. Veterinarians don't need to directly accept your insurance; instead, policyholders settle vet bills upfront and later file a claim. The insurer then reimburses a portion of the bill after deducting the co-pay and deductible. As long as the veterinarian is licensed in the country, you can choose any in Des Moines. Some policies even extend coverage to veterinarians licensed in Mexico and Canada, offering flexibility and options for pet owners seeking care beyond borders.

• What factors affect how much your pet insurance will cost in Des Moines?

  The major factors considered by Des Moines insurers when calculating pet insurance premiums are the pet's species, breed, age, and residence. Cat insurance is less expensive than dog insurance. The older the pet, the more expensive the insurance. Some breeds are more susceptible to health issues, which means more claims. Policies for those breeds will be more expensive. Your address is also important because veterinary care prices vary by location.

• Do pet insurance policies in Des Moines cover pre-existing conditions?

  No, most pet insurance policies do not cover pre-existing conditions. A pre-existing condition is typically defined by insurers as an illness or injury that the pet contracted, or that occurred or presented symptoms prior to the policy's effective date or during the policy's waiting period. Some Des Moines insurers provide coverage for curable pre-existing conditions if the condition has been cured, symptom-free, and has not required treatment for a specified period of time.

• Can you make a claim against your pet insurance in Des Moines right after enrolling your pet?

  No, almost all Des Moines pet insurance companies impose a waiting period after the effective date of a policy during which no claims will be paid. The typical wait time is 14 to 15 days. Most insurers impose a separate waiting period for accident claims, which is usually shorter than the standard. Meanwhile, some insurers will impose a longer waiting period before paying claims for certain pet conditions, such as cruciate ligament injuries and hip dysplasia.

• Is euthanasia covered by pet insurance in Des Moines?

  Spot, Trupanion, and Embrace are three insurers in Des Moines that cover pet euthanasia. This service is only covered if recommended by a licensed veterinarian. It should be noted that some insurers will only cover euthanasia if the need arises as a result of a covered condition. Accident-only pet insurance, for example, will only cover euthanasia if the vet recommends it as a result of the pet's accident injuries. It will not pay for euthanasia because of a pre-existing condition.