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Active adult dogs most often suffer cruciate ligament tears, sprains and strains, cut paw pads, torn nails, fractures and swallowed objects. The top pet insurance options for active adult dogs cover both accidents and illnesses, including cruciate ligament injuries, tests, surgery and hospitalisation. Accident-only cover helps with sudden injuries, but it does not cover illness.
Which injuries are most common in active dogs?
Dogs that run, jump, swim and chase balls put a lot of load on their joints, paws and muscles. Injuries vets commonly see in busy dogs include:
- Cruciate ligament injuries. This ligament stabilises the knee. A tear often shows as sudden lameness in a back leg after a twist or awkward landing.
- Sprains and strains. Soft tissue injuries to muscles, tendons and ligaments, often from sharp turns or overdoing it.
- Cut paw pads and torn nails. Shells, rocks, glass and rough ground can all cause painful cuts.
- Fractures. Falls, collisions and car accidents can break bones.
- Swallowed objects. Balls, sticks and toys can be swallowed or splinter in the mouth and throat.
- Eye injuries. Running through long grass and scrub can scratch the eye.
- Tick paralysis. Dogs that explore bush and long grass face a higher risk in tick areas.
Signs your dog may be injured
Dogs are good at hiding pain. Watch for limping or holding a leg up, licking one spot over and over, reluctance to jump into the car or climb stairs, swelling or heat in a joint, and yelping when touched. Wobbly back legs, a change in bark or trouble breathing can signal tick paralysis and need urgent care.
If you notice any of these signs, see your vet. Early treatment often means a smoother recovery.
What pet insurance covers for active dog injuries
Cover depends on the plan you choose. Here is how common injuries line up with PetsOnMe plans. All cover is for eligible conditions, subject to waiting periods and the terms in the PDS.
Cruciate cover: the big one for active dogs
Cruciate ligament injuries are among the most common reasons active dogs need surgery. Treatment can involve imaging, surgery, hospital care and weeks of rehabilitation, and the vet bills can run into the thousands.
The PetsOnMe Classic Plan and Deluxe Plan include cruciate ligament cover for eligible conditions. Cruciate conditions have a longer waiting period than accidents, so getting covered early matters. Signs of a knee problem that show up before cover starts may be treated as pre-existing, and pre-existing conditions are not covered.
Which plan suits an active adult dog?
For most active adult dogs, the Classic Plan is a strong fit. It pays back 80% of eligible vet bills, less your excess, with up to $10,000 a year for accidents, illnesses, cruciate injuries, tests, surgery and hospitalisation.
The Accidental Plan suits owners who want protection for sudden injuries only. The Deluxe Plan adds a higher limit and select dental illness cover. On every plan you choose an excess of $100, $200 or $300, visit any registered vet in Australia, and there are no lock-in contracts or exit fees. Full details are in the Product Disclosure Statement.
Simple ways to lower injury risk
- Warm up with a walk before running or fetch.
- Keep your dog lean, as extra weight loads the joints.
- Limit repetitive high jumps and sharp turns on hard ground.
- Check paws after beach and bush outings.
- Check for ticks every day in tick areas.
- Build exercise up gradually after a break or illness.
Frequently asked questions
Does pet insurance cover cruciate ligament surgery?
The PetsOnMe Classic and Deluxe Plans include cruciate ligament injuries for eligible conditions, subject to waiting periods and the terms in the PDS.
Is accident-only cover enough for an active dog?
It helps with sudden injuries like cuts and fractures, but it does not cover illness or hereditary conditions. Many owners of active dogs choose accident and illness cover for broader protection.
What happens if my dog was limping before cover started?
Signs that appeared before cover started may be treated as a pre-existing condition, which is not covered. Talk to us before you apply if you are unsure.
How quickly are claims paid?
You can lodge a claim online in a few minutes, and most eligible claims are reimbursed as soon as the next business day.
Ready to get covered?
Keep your active dog protected for the adventures ahead. Compare PetsOnMe plans online or call 1300 489 873 to chat with our team.
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.
