The Benefits of an Accident-Only Pet Insurance Plan
Pet Insurance provides a safety net for pet parents when their cats and dogs get sick or experience accidental injuries. We love spending time with our pets and engaging in various activities such as exercising, hiking, going on long trips to the beach, and more. But let’s face it, accidents happen. And when they do, you’ll want the peace of mind that comes with knowing you can get them the medical treatments they need, regardless of their age, breed, or pre-existing conditions. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of an Accident Only pet insurance plan for your furry friend, including what it covers, costs, and how to know if it’s right for you and your pet.
What is an Accident Only Plan? How Is It Different than an Illness and Injury Plan?
An Accident Only plan is different than an Illness and Injury plan, which is the most common type of insurance policy available from pet insurance companies. In fact, while many insurance companies will only offer an illness and injury policy, Odie Pet Insurance offers both as a way to ensure all pet parents have coverage choices.
An Illness and Injury plan provides comprehensive coverage for cats and dogs and helps pet parents receive reimbursement for illnesses and injuries. An Accident Only plan, however, is meant to be put in place against accidental mishaps only. An Accident Only policy will not cover unexpected illnesses, pre-existing conditions, or the treatments associated with pre-existing conditions. However, an Accident Only plan is a very affordable option. It is a more affordable option for first-time pet owners, dogs with pre-existing conditions, and those with young and healthy pets looking for extra protection.
What is Covered in the Accident Only Plan?
Veterinary treatments associated with the care of accidental injuries are included in coverage. Examples of covered items under Odie’s Accident Only pet health Insurance plan include the following but are not limited to:
Injuries
- Broken bones
- Sprains
- eye injuries
- traumatic dental fractures
Wounds
- Bite wounds
- Lacerations
- Snake bites
- Bee stings
Veterinary Treatments associated with the accident
- X-rays
- Ultrasounds
- Laboratory Tests
- Emergency Care
- Hospitalization
- CT Scan
- MRI
- Surgery
What is Considered an Accidental Injury?
Pet parents never want to think about their pets getting injured, but several types of accidental injuries can occur and are covered under an Accident Only Plan. An accidental injury results from an unforeseen or unintentional circumstance beyond the policyholder’s control.
Examples of accidental injuries include:
- Car accidents
- Ingestion of a foreign or harmful substance
- Broken bones or sprains due to a fall
- Broken toe nails
- Burnt paw pads
- Injuries from catastrophic events (i.e.: house fire, falling in a pool, etc)
- Heat stroke
What is not covered by an Accident Only pet insurance plan?
An Accident Only plan covers emergency veterinary care costs when a mishap occurs. It will not reimburse items typically covered within a more comprehensive Illness and Injury plan or for routine care and preventative care items.
Illnesses, Diseases, and Specific Conditions
- breed-specific health issues or illnesses
- congenital conditions
- chronic conditions
- dental Illness
Specific Injuries
- pre-existing injuries
- cruciate ligament events
- injuries due to behavioral conditions or intentional acts
Preventative Care
Routine or wellness care such as:
- checkups
- vaccinations
- spay/neuter
- Microchipping
- teething cleaning
How Much Does an Accident-Only Policy Cost?
Odie’s Accident-Only policies start at $6 for cats and $9 for dogs. Plan terms are fixed because age, breed, and zip code are not required to provide an insurance rate. Odie’s Accident Only plan offers a 90% reimbursement amount, up to $10,000 a year, and includes a $250 deductible.
Are there Waiting Periods for Accidental Coverage?
A waiting period is the time specified in the pet insurance policy that is required to pass before coverage begins. All pet insurance policies include waiting periods that range from zero days to six months, depending on the illness or injury and depending on the state in which you live. Odie’s Accident Only Plan has a three-day waiting period, so your pet will be covered quickly after purchasing the policy.
What are the Benefits of an Accident Only Plan?
An Accident Only Plan is for pet parents looking for coverage specifically for accidents. There are many benefits of this type of pet insurance plan, including:
- Affordability – Since Accident-Only plans do not cover the veterinary care and treatment associated with illnesses and other conditions, monthly and annual policy rates tend to be much lower.
- Peace of Mind – As with any pet health insurance plan, an Accident Only plan provides a safety net for pet parents when faced with difficult decisions around their pet’s care. Having a pet insurance plan of any type can help ensure your pet receives the proper and best treatment.
- Coverage for Pets with Pre-existing Conditions – If your cat or dog has a pre-existing condition not covered under a traditional Illness and Injury insurance plan, you can purchase an Accident Only plan. This will guarantee that your furry friend receives medical treatment if they unexpectedly get injured.
What Other Types of Pet Coverage Exist?
Odie offers comprehensive, customizable, and affordable pet insurance plans designed to ensure as many cats and dogs receive access to the veterinary treatments they need. In addition to the Accident Only plan, Odie Pet Insurance offers the following:
Illness and Injury Insurance
The Illness & Injury Plan is a comprehensive pet insurance plan that covers illnesses, injuries, and veterinary services for all cat and dog breeds, with no upper age limit.
The Wellness Plan
The Wellness Plan is an add-on to the Accident Only or Illness and Injury Plan, ensuring your pet gets the routine care they need. While this is not an insurance plan, it aids in offsetting the costs of preventative care and everyday items such as vaccinations, flea and tick medicine, wellness visits, and more.
Interested in pet insurance for your cat or dog? Head to Odie’s website to get a free quote in less than 60 seconds.
