What is the best mid cover pet insurance for dogs? The best mid-level plan covers both accidents and illnesses, pays back a solid share of eligible vet bills, and lets you use any vet you trust. It sits between accident-only cover and top-tier protection, giving most dog owners strong everyday protection without paying for extras they may never use.
Here are the eight features to look for, and how the PetsOnMe Classic Plan measures up.
The 8 features of strong mid-level dog cover
1. Accident and illness cover in one plan
Dogs chew things they shouldn’t, run into things, and pick up infections. A mid-level plan should cover accidents and illnesses together. Accident-only cover is a useful safety net, but it leaves you paying for illness treatment yourself.
2. Hereditary condition cover
Many breeds are prone to inherited conditions. Look for a plan that includes hereditary conditions. The PetsOnMe Classic Plan covers them, with a yearly sub-limit and age rules that are set out in the Product Disclosure Statement.
3. Cruciate ligament cover
Cruciate injuries are among the most common knee problems in active dogs, and surgery can run into the thousands. Check whether cruciate cover is included and note that it often carries a longer waiting period.
4. A meaningful annual limit
The annual limit is the most your plan will pay back in a year. The Classic Plan offers up to $10,000 a year, which gives real room for surgery, hospitalisation and follow-on care if your dog becomes seriously unwell.
5. A clear benefit percentage
All PetsOnMe plans pay back 80% of eligible vet bills, less your excess. A fixed percentage makes it easy to plan for what you’ll pay out of pocket.
6. Excess options that suit your budget
Choosing your excess lets you balance your ongoing investment with what you pay per claim. PetsOnMe offers a $100, $200 or $300 excess.
7. Freedom to see any registered vet
Your dog is more relaxed with a vet they know. PetsOnMe members can visit any registered vet in Australia, including emergency hospitals.
8. Fast, simple claims
When your dog is unwell, paperwork is the last thing you need. With PetsOnMe, claims are lodged online in a few minutes, and most eligible claims are reimbursed as soon as the next business day.
What mid-level plans usually leave out
Knowing the exclusions helps you avoid surprises. Across PetsOnMe plans, these are not covered:
- Pre-existing and congenital conditions
- Routine and preventative care, such as vaccinations and check-ups
- Elective procedures
- Breeding and pregnancy
- Behavioural problems
- Dental illness, except the select dental cover in the Deluxe Plan
How to choose the right level for your dog
Think about your dog’s age, breed and lifestyle. A young, active dog with a breed history of joint or inherited problems usually benefits from mid-level cover or higher. If dental health is a concern, the Deluxe Plan adds select dental illness cover. Older dogs may only qualify for the Accidental Plan, so it helps to get covered while your dog is young. Pets can join PetsOnMe from 6 weeks old.
Flexibility matters too. PetsOnMe has no lock-in contracts or exit fees. You can change or cancel your plan, though upgrades are subject to age limits and waiting periods start again when you upgrade.
Frequently asked questions
What is mid-level pet insurance?
Mid-level cover protects against both accidents and illnesses with a moderate annual limit. The PetsOnMe Classic Plan offers up to $10,000 a year and pays back 80% of eligible vet bills, less your excess.
Does mid-level cover include hereditary conditions?
The Classic Plan does, with a yearly sub-limit and age rules. Full details are in the Product Disclosure Statement.
Can I switch to PetsOnMe without new waiting periods?
Waiting periods are waived if you’ve held similar cover with another insurer for 12 months or more with no break in cover.
How can I reduce my ongoing investment?
Choose a higher excess, pay annually for 5% off, and cover two or more pets for a further 5% off.
Ready to get covered?
Give your dog strong everyday protection. compare PetsOnMe plans online or call 1300 489 873 to talk it through with our team.
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.