How does age affect coverage?

Many insurers have maximum age limits for new policies, and premiums increase as pets age.

As pets become older, insurance companies view them as higher risk due to the likelihood of developing age-related health issues. This perception leads companies to impose age limits when issuing new policies, meaning that older pets might not be eligible for new insurance coverage. Furthermore, for existing insured pets, premiums tend to rise as they age. This increase in cost is because older pets are more prone to illness or require medical care, making them more expensive to insure. Hence, pet insurance tends to be more costly as your pet gets older.

Imagine you adopted a puppy and decided to delay getting pet insurance. Fast forward to when your dog is 9 years old, and you're considering insurance to help with future vet bills. You discover that your preferred insurer doesn’t issue new policies for dogs over 8 years old, meaning you'll struggle to find coverage for aging pets. If you had insured your dog while it was still young, you might have managed a more affordable premium over the years, even as the premium increased due to age.

To manage pet insurance costs effectively, consider purchasing insurance when your pet is young. This approach not only locks in a lower premium but also ensures continuous coverage as your pet ages and becomes more susceptible to health issues. Regularly review the policy details and reassess as your pet's needs change over time. Starting early can prevent unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind knowing that your pet is covered throughout its life.