Seattle, Nov. 03, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --
No pet owner expects their dog to be unlucky, but when the unexpected occurs, medical insurance for pets can help ease the financial burden of treatment. Trupanion, a medical insurance provider for cats and dogs, saw over 15,000 accident claims for Canadian pets since January 2017 for things like bites, burns, breaks, and foreign body ingestion. The company paid over $4 million CAD toward their care.
Insurance coverage can make a difference in the lives of dogs and cats—taking the focus off of money and placing it back on to their care. Pet owners are able to choose what is best for their pet and veterinarians are able to practice best medicine. This can be critical in the face of a sudden injury.
Removing financial barriers to veterinary care
By offering financial support during an emergency, medical insurance for pets can help pet owners pay for costly veterinary treatments.
Lindsey M. a veterinary technician, was aware of the costs of veterinary medicine when enrolling her Coonhound, Sierra, in insurance. When Sierra ingested part of an entryway rug, Lindsey was faced with a $6,000 bill.
“I am so glad Sierra was covered by Trupanion, or cost could have prevented her from having surgery,” Lindsey said. “It was the greatest feeling bringing her home. Months later, I am so happy I was able to just say yes to the quote and her care.”
Putting a focus on recovery
Even if pet owners are able to cover veterinary costs, the sudden expense can be a stressful distraction. Health insurance can take away some of that financial burden and help the pet owner focus on their pet’s recovery.
Charlie the French Bulldog and his owners were visiting with friends on a fenced rooftop patio in Calgary, Alberta, when Charlie managed to jump onto a bench, over the fence, and off the roof—falling 10 meters.
“Our hearts sank. Just like that he disappeared. It didn’t seem real” said Sandon H., Charlie’s owner. They rushed him to the closest animal hospital. His shoulders and jaw were fractured, but he had a strong fighting spirit. The Trupanion policy covered over $4,800 toward his veterinary expenses. “They took away all of the stress about finances, which allowed us to just focus on Charlie.” After months of hand-feeding, and limited movement, his specialist was amazed how fast he was healing.
“Today, he’s back to normal—running, jumping, playing, cuddling and making us laugh. You wouldn’t even know he fell but for a small scar on his chin. We’re so thankful for Trupanion’s help, and so glad Charlie is back to being himself.”
Helping veterinarians practice best medicine
Pet owners with insurance are also more likely to move forward with “plan A” treatment because they have financial support, which gives veterinarians the ability to do what’s best for the pet.
At 5 months old, Ella the mixed breed dog fell off a chair and broke her leg. She was treated by Princess Animal Hospital in Ontario and the break was expected to heal well—but that’s when Ella’s issues really started. “Unfortunately, Ella’s fracture was not healing properly and she was developing elbow dysplasia which was very painful for her” said a staff member from Princess Animal Hospital. “The end result meant surgery to amputate her leg.” Ella’s owners had coverage for their pup, and were able to move forward with the initial treatment and surgery, which totaled over $6,000.
“Trupanion has been an important part in Ella’s journey to her wellbeing. Now, Ella lives as a fast-running, three-legged pooch who enjoys life and doesn’t live in discomfort anymore.”
About Trupanion
Trupanion is a leader in medical insurance for cats and dogs throughout the United States and Canada. For almost two decades, Trupanion has given pet owners peace of mind so they can focus on their pet's recovery, not financial stress. Trupanion is committed to providing pet owners with the highest value in pet medical insurance. Trupanion is listed on NASDAQ under the symbol "TRUP". The company was founded in 2000 and is headquartered in Seattle, WA. Trupanion policies are issued, in the United States, by its wholly-owned insurance entity American Pet Insurance Company and, in Canada, by Omega General Insurance Company. For more information please visit trupanion.com.