1300 489 873
The top pet insurance options for active adult dogs cover accidents, soft tissue and ligament injuries, and illness, with a limit high enough for surgery. Border Collies, Kelpies, Cattle Dogs and other high-energy breeds run, jump and turn at speed, so injuries are a real risk. An accident and illness plan with cruciate cover is usually the best fit for these dogs.
What makes active dogs different to insure?
High-energy breeds are athletes. They chase balls, herd stock, compete in agility and keep going long after other dogs stop. That drive is part of their charm, and it also puts more strain on joints, paws and ligaments.
Common problems vets see in active dogs include:
- Cruciate ligament injuries from sudden twists and landings
- Cuts to paws and pads on rough ground
- Sprains, strains and muscle injuries
- Broken toes or legs from falls or collisions
- Swallowed objects, such as ball fragments or sticks
- Tick paralysis in dogs that spend time in bushland
Border Collies can also be prone to some inherited eye and joint conditions. Ask your breeder about health testing and talk to your vet about what to watch for.
What cover should an active dog have?
Look for a plan that covers accidents and illness, surgery, hospitalisation and tests, and includes cruciate ligament injuries. Some plans leave cruciate out, which can be a big gap for a sporty dog.
The PetsOnMe Classic Plan covers accidents, illnesses, hereditary conditions (a yearly sub-limit and age rules apply), cruciate ligament injuries, tests, surgery and hospitalisation for eligible conditions, up to $10,000 a year. The Deluxe Plan offers the same cover up to $20,000 a year and adds select dental illness cover.
Comparing PetsOnMe plans for active dogs
All plans pay back 80% of eligible vet bills, less your excess of $100, $200 or $300.
Is accident-only cover enough for a Border Collie?
The Accidental Plan protects against injuries, tick paralysis and third party liability, which suits owners on a tight budget. It does not cover illness, hereditary conditions or cruciate ligament injuries. For a dog that lives at full speed, cruciate cover is often the deciding factor, which points most owners towards the Classic Plan or Deluxe Plan.
Age also matters. Older dogs may only qualify for the Accidental Plan, so getting covered while your dog is young gives you more choice.
Tips to keep your active dog safe
- Warm up with a walk before intense ball or frisbee play.
- Keep your dog at a healthy weight to protect joints.
- Check paws after runs on rocky or hot ground.
- Use a vet-recommended tick prevention product and check your dog daily in tick season.
- See your vet promptly if your dog limps, won’t bear weight or seems sore.
What is not covered
PetsOnMe plans do not cover pre-existing conditions, congenital conditions, routine and preventative care, elective procedures, breeding and pregnancy, or behavioural problems. Waiting periods apply, and cruciate and hereditary conditions have longer ones. Read the Product Disclosure Statement for full details.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best insurance for an active dog?
An accident and illness plan that includes cruciate ligament injuries, surgery and hospitalisation, such as the PetsOnMe Classic Plan or Deluxe Plan, suits most active dogs.
Does pet insurance cover agility or sporting injuries?
Accidental injuries can be covered under all PetsOnMe plans, subject to the terms in the PDS. Check the PDS for any activity-related exclusions.
Is tick paralysis covered?
Yes. Tick paralysis is covered under all three PetsOnMe plans, subject to waiting periods and the terms in the PDS.
Can I cover more than one working dog?
Yes. You get a further 5% off when you cover two or more pets, on top of 5% off for paying annually.
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.
