Survey: Most Pet Owners Don’t Understand Their Coverage
Many pet owners don’t fully understand what their insurance covers. This survey explains why. It was made by Dipesh Karki, the founder of SmartPolicyPro, who has helped owners with pet insurance for over 10 years. The survey shows important things to check in a policy, like deductibles, reimbursement rates, and yearly limits, so you avoid paying extra.
Survey Source: SmartPolicyPro conducted this survey in June 2025. 1,200 pet owners across the USA answered questions about their knowledge of insurance coverage, limits, wellness care, and reimbursements. This helps show real mistakes owners make.
📊 Key Survey Findings
- Only 1 in 3 owners know exactly what their policy covers, like accidents, illnesses, or wellness care.
- Wrong ideas about exclusions: 40% thought pre-existing conditions were covered. Most policies don’t cover problems that existed before joining.
- Wellness care: Many think check-ups, vaccines, and dental care are included. Usually, you need extra coverage.
- Deductibles and reimbursements: Not knowing if you get 70%, 80%, or 90% back can cause big bills.
Survey shows common mistakes in understanding pet insurance
❓ What Confuses Owners Most?
- Pre-existing conditions: Many think these are covered. Usually they are not if the problem started before joining or in the last 6–12 months.
- Wellness care: Exams, shots, and preventive care usually need extra coverage.
- Policy limits: Limits can be $5,000 or more, sometimes unlimited. Many people forget to check them.
- Reimbursements: People often miscalculate how much they get back after deductibles (70% vs 90%), causing surprises.
💡 Tips to Avoid Confusion
- Read your policy carefully: Know what is included, excluded, and any special rules.
- Ask about wellness add-ons: Extra coverage helps with check-ups and vaccines.
- Know limits: Check yearly or per-condition limits before big bills.
- Check reimbursements: Estimate how much you will pay after deductibles and the percent you get back.
📝 Common Questions
Why don’t I understand my policy?
Pet insurance uses words like "deductibles," "reimbursements," and "exclusions," which can be hard to understand. Read your policy, check sample claims, and call the insurance company for help. SmartPolicyPro also provides simple checklists to see what each plan covers.
Are pre-existing conditions ever covered?
Usually they are not. Some insurers may cover them partially or after 6–12 months. Some problems can be cured and may be covered later, but chronic problems usually stay excluded.
Can wellness coverage be added later?
Yes, but there may be a waiting period. Adding it after a big bill may not save money. Wellness coverage is mostly for regular vet visits.
What if I misunderstand a limit?
Claims may be denied if you don’t understand your limits. For example, a $2,000 surgery could be rejected if your yearly limit is reached. Limits can be $5,000 or unlimited, so check before big bills.
About the Author: Dipesh Karki has over 10 years of experience helping pet owners with insurance. He started SmartPolicyPro to give clear guidance on coverage, claims, and policy choices.
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