Pet insurance is a separate healthcare policy tailored for your pet. It helps compensate for otherwise expensive medical bills crucial for your pet’s health. Unfortunately, even if all the necessary actions are taken and treatment is sought immediately, pets are still mortal. They can pass away sometimes
unexpectedly or reach a time in their life where they can no longer go on. Thankfully, pet insurance can often help with the financial burden after a pet passes away.
Accidental Death vs Illness
In most cases, pet insurance will compensate for a sudden and accidental death of a pet. There are certain exclusions depending on the pet and the illness. Pets at 8 or 9 years of age or older (changes per policy) that pass away from illness are not qualified for pet insurance death benefits. Pre-existing conditions are also not covered. If there are documented signs of the illness or injury before the policy is activated, death related to said illness or injury likely won’t be covered. Death related to pregnancy, birth or unnecessary euthanasia is also excluded. Necessary euthanasia refers to putting down an animal to avoid incurable pain and suffering.
Proof for Cause of Death
In order to file a claim with the provider of the pet insurance party, a policyholder should have proof of medical expenses paid. It’s important to have a vet receipt for euthanasia, cremation, burial and other costs as well as a document from the vet dictating the date and cause of death.
How Much Does Pet Insurance Pay if the Pet Dies?
Compensation for an insured pet after it passes away typically depends on the original value of the pet. Policyholders should provide proof of how much they paid for the pet and will receive either the full amount or a portion of the amount originally paid for the pet. This money may be used for cremation or burial services, which can be expensive out of pocket. For a large animal, cremation can cause $250 or more in damage. Burials, on the other hand, can cost anywhere between $450 and $1,100 for a burial plot and casket. On the other hand, the average cost of pet insurance is around $30 to $50 a month, depending on the policy limits, deductible, coverage and the pet. Pet breeds with a history of health conditions may cost more to insure.
ALSO READ: Can Pet Insurance Cover Antibiotics?