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Mid-cover dog insurance, also called accident and illness cover, is where most Australian dog owners land. But two mid-cover plans can look alike on the surface and feel very different when it’s time to claim. Here are the things worth comparing, and how the PetsOnMe Classic Plan measures up.
What counts as “mid cover”?
Mid cover sits between accident-only plans and top-tier comprehensive plans. It covers accidents and illnesses with a mid-range yearly limit, and usually leaves out extras like dental. At PetsOnMe, that’s the Classic Plan.
8 things to compare in any mid-cover plan
1. The annual limit
This is the most a plan will pay in a year. One surgery or emergency stay can use up a small limit quickly.
PetsOnMe Classic: up to $10,000 a year.
2. How much you get back
The higher the percentage of each eligible vet bill you get back, the less comes out of your pocket.
PetsOnMe Classic: 80% of eligible vet bills.
3. What’s included
Look past “accident and illness” and check the details, especially hereditary conditions and cruciate ligament injuries, which are common in dogs.
PetsOnMe Classic: accidents, illnesses, hereditary conditions, cruciate ligament injuries, third party liability and prescribed medication.
4. Excess options
Being able to choose your excess lets you balance your regular investment against what you pay when you claim.
PetsOnMe Classic: choose a $100, $200 or $300 excess.
5. Choice of vet
Some plans work best with certain clinics. Others let you go anywhere.
PetsOnMe Classic: any registered vet in Australia.
6. Flexibility
Check for lock-in contracts, exit fees and payment options.
PetsOnMe Classic: no lock-in contracts or exit fees. Pay fortnightly, monthly or annually.
7. Claims experience
How easy is it to claim, and how fast is the money back in your account?
PetsOnMe Classic: claims are lodged online in minutes, and most eligible claims are reimbursed as soon as the next business day.
8. Ways to save
Look for discounts that suit your household.
PetsOnMe Classic: 5% off for paying annually, a further 5% off for two or more pets, and waiting periods waived if you’re switching from an insurer you’ve been with for 12 months or more without a break in cover.
How to compare plans fairly
- Line up like with like. Compare plans with the same excess and the same percentage back.
- Read the Product Disclosure Statement. It shows the limits, exclusions and waiting periods behind the headline numbers.
- Think about your dog. Breed and age shape which conditions are most likely to come up.
Frequently asked questions
What’s the best level of cover for a puppy?
Many owners choose mid cover for puppies, because illness and hereditary conditions are included and fewer conditions are pre-existing when you start young.
Does mid cover include dental?
Not at PetsOnMe. Select dental illness cover comes with the Deluxe Plan.
Is mid cover worth it over accident-only?
If a surprise illness bill of a few thousand dollars would stretch your budget, mid cover is usually the better fit. Accident-only plans don’t cover illness.
Ready to get covered?
See the Classic Plan side by side with the rest of the range at petsonme.com.au, or call 1300 489 873 to talk it through.
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.
