1300 489 873
Which pet insurance is best for unexpected vet bills only? If you mainly want protection against sudden accidents, an accident-only plan is the simplest fit. It helps with the vet bills that come out of nowhere, like a broken leg, a snake bite or a swallowed toy, while keeping your ongoing investment lower than comprehensive cover.
What is accident-only pet insurance?
Accident-only pet insurance covers injuries caused by a sudden, unexpected event. It does not cover illness. The PetsOnMe Accidental Plan pays back 80% of eligible vet bills, less your excess, up to $5,000 a year.
Common accidents that can lead to a vet visit include:
- Car accidents and falls
- Cuts, bites and wounds
- Broken bones and sprains
- Swallowing a foreign object
- Tick paralysis
Emergency treatment for injuries like these can run into the thousands, which is the kind of unexpected bill this plan is built for.
What the PetsOnMe Accidental Plan covers
The Accidental Plan covers accidents and related vet treatment, prescribed medication, tick paralysis and third party liability. That last one matters if your dog accidentally causes injury to someone else or damage to their property.
It does not cover illness or hereditary conditions. It also excludes the general exclusions that apply to every PetsOnMe plan, including pre-existing conditions, routine care such as vaccinations and check-ups, elective procedures, breeding and pregnancy, and behavioural problems. The full terms are in the Product Disclosure Statement.
Who is accident-only cover best for?
An accident-only plan can suit you if:
- You want a safety net for sudden emergencies and are comfortable paying for illness care yourself.
- You have an older pet who may only qualify for the Accidental Plan because of age limits on other plans.
- You have an adventurous, outdoor pet who is more likely to get hurt than sick.
- You want to keep your ongoing investment lower while still protecting against a large unexpected bill.
If your pet is young, or belongs to a breed prone to inherited or joint problems, accident and illness cover usually gives broader protection. Illness is one of the most common reasons for vet visits, and an accident-only plan will not help with those bills.
How to make accident-only cover work harder
A few simple choices can make your plan fit your budget:
- Choose your excess. PetsOnMe offers a $100, $200 or $300 excess per claim.
- Pay annually. You get 5% off when you pay yearly instead of fortnightly or monthly.
- Cover more than one pet. A further 5% off applies when you cover two or more pets.
- Use the vet you trust. You can visit any registered vet in Australia, including after-hours emergency hospitals.
When something does happen, you can lodge your claim online in a few minutes. Most eligible claims are reimbursed as soon as the next business day, subject to the terms in the PDS.
Can you move up from accident-only later?
Yes. PetsOnMe has 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 when you upgrade. If your pet develops a condition while on accident-only cover, it may be treated as pre-existing on a new plan, so it pays to think about your long-term needs early.
Frequently asked questions
Does accident-only pet insurance cover illness?
No. The PetsOnMe Accidental Plan covers accidents and related treatment only. Illness and hereditary conditions are not covered.
Is tick paralysis covered on the Accidental Plan?
Yes. Tick paralysis is included on the Accidental Plan, subject to waiting periods and the terms in the Product Disclosure Statement.
Can older pets get accident-only cover?
Older pets may only qualify for the Accidental Plan, as age limits apply to some plans. Our team can confirm the options for your pet.
How quickly are accident claims paid?
Claims are lodged online in a few minutes, and most eligible claims are reimbursed as soon as the next business day.
Ready to get covered?
Protect your pet against the bills you never see coming. compare PetsOnMe plans online or call 1300 489 873 to find the right fit.
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.
