I was just wondering if I were to apply for pet insurance, if it works like regular human health insurance. I have a 7 yr old english bulldog. I believe his age is beginning to take a toll on him (arthritis, hip dysplasia, etc.). Plus he’s been lonely and I’m also planning to get another bulldog to keep him company (preferably another old one) Is it too late to apply? Is it even worth it?
All pets for almost any pet insurance company will need to be approved by their underwriting department first before offering you a policy, if one at all. Medical records will be requested from your vet(s) to see what the insurance company is getting itself into. If the pet is too much of a risk, they can either deny coverage all together or offer a policy with increased premiums. If a policy is offered, the current medical problems will never be covered (=pre-existing) and neither would any other genetic issues. Some companies will add a surcharge for particular breeds with increased health problems (even if healthy right now) and an English Bulldog would definitely fit that bill. Each company sets up different guidelines with regards to age – some will not write you a policy at all after a certain age while others will surcharge a pet beyond a certain age. Each pet insurance company is a little different from the other so the best way to get answers is to contact each directly. Sometimes the sales people will be able to answer your questions but ultimately, the underwriting departments have final determination on all pets.
With his age and breed…good luck. If he already has conditions, or conditions regarded as genetic…they will not cover them anyway.