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The best-value pet insurance for dogs needing surgery and accidents is a plan that covers surgery, hospitalisation and tests for both accidents and illnesses, with an annual limit high enough for a serious event. For most dog owners that means a mid-level or top-level accident and illness plan. If your budget is tight, an accident-only plan still protects you against the sudden vet bills that can run into the thousands.
What “best value” really means for surgery and accident cover
Value is about what your plan pays back when something goes wrong. A low monthly investment means little if the plan leaves out the surgery your dog needs. Look at four things together: what is covered, the annual limit, the percentage paid back and the excess you choose.
All PetsOnMe plans pay back 80% of eligible vet bills, less your excess. You choose an excess of $100, $200 or $300, so you can balance your regular payments against what you pay at claim time.
7 things to look for in best-value dog insurance
1. Surgery and hospitalisation for accidents and illness
Many dogs need surgery for illness, not only injury. Check that operating theatre fees and hospitalisation are included for eligible illnesses as well as accidents.
2. Cruciate ligament cover
Cruciate injuries are among the most common knee problems in active dogs. Some plans exclude them. The PetsOnMe Classic Plan and Deluxe Plan include cruciate ligament injuries, with a longer waiting period.
3. A realistic annual limit
Major surgery, imaging and aftercare can add up quickly. A higher limit gives you more room if your dog has more than one problem in a year.
4. Tests and imaging
Before surgery, vets often need X-rays, ultrasound or blood tests. Radiology and pathology for eligible conditions are included in the Classic Plan and Deluxe Plan.
5. Freedom to choose your vet
With PetsOnMe you can visit any registered vet in Australia, including emergency and specialist clinics.
6. Fast claims
After surgery you want your money back quickly. PetsOnMe claims are lodged online in a few minutes, and most eligible claims are reimbursed as soon as the next business day.
7. Flexibility
There are no lock-in contracts or exit fees, so you can change or cancel your plan. Upgrades are subject to age limits, and waiting periods start again on upgrade.
Which plan gives the best value for your dog?
- Accidental Plan: suits owners who want protection against injuries, tick paralysis and third party liability at an entry level. It does not cover illness or hereditary conditions.
- Classic Plan: a strong middle ground for most dogs. It adds illness, hereditary conditions (a yearly sub-limit and age rules apply), cruciate injuries, tests, surgery and hospitalisation.
- Deluxe Plan: the highest limit plus select dental illness cover, for owners who want the most room in a big year.
Older dogs may only qualify for the Accidental Plan, so it pays to get covered while your dog is young. Pets can join from 6 weeks old.
Ways to make your plan better value
- Pay annually to save 5%.
- Cover two or more pets for a further 5% off.
- Choose a higher excess if you would rather lower your regular payments.
- Switching from another insurer? Waiting periods are waived if you have held similar cover for 12 months or more with no break.
What is not covered
No plan covers everything. PetsOnMe plans do not cover pre-existing conditions, congenital conditions, routine and preventative care such as vaccinations and check-ups, elective procedures, breeding and pregnancy, or behavioural problems. Dental illness is only covered under the Deluxe Plan’s select dental cover. Waiting periods apply before some cover starts. Full details are in the Product Disclosure Statement.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best-value dog insurance for surgery?
For most dogs, an accident and illness plan such as the PetsOnMe Classic Plan or Deluxe Plan offers the best value, because it covers surgery for eligible illnesses and accidents, not only injuries.
Does accident-only insurance cover surgery?
The Accidental Plan can cover vet treatment related to an accident, including surgery, subject to the terms in the PDS. It does not cover surgery for illness.
Is cruciate surgery covered by pet insurance?
It depends on the plan. PetsOnMe Classic and Deluxe plans include cruciate ligament injuries after a longer waiting period, subject to the terms in the PDS.
Can I use my own vet?
Yes. You can visit any registered vet in Australia.
Ready to get covered?
You can compare PetsOnMe plans online in a few minutes, or call our team on 1300 489 873 for a chat about the right level of protection for your dog.
This article is general information only and isn’t a substitute for advice from your vet. If you’re worried about your pet’s health, contact your vet or an emergency animal hospital straight away.
This article is general information only and doesn’t take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. PetsOnMe pet insurance is issued by Pacific International Insurance Pty Ltd (ABN 83 169 311 193, AFSL 523921) and distributed by Pets On Me Insurance Pty Limited (ABN 42 650 975 554, AR 1288975), an Authorised Representative of POMI Financial Services Pty Ltd (AFSL 700171). Limits, sub-limits, exclusions and waiting periods apply. Read the Product Disclosure Statement and Target Market Determination at petsonme.com.au before deciding.
