Pet Insurance in Iowa
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Dr. Pippa Elliott BVMS, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr Pippa Elliott BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in companion animal practice. In 1987 she graduated from the University of Glasgow, with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She works at Blythwood Vets and the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA). Pippa is an advocate of Fear-Free Practice, an animal addict, and a veterinary writer. She is also w...
Veterinarian
UPDATED: Jan 8, 2024
Pet Insurance U receives compensation from the third parties included on this site. This includes payment for clicks from our site to insurance providers’ sites and quote requests generated. Our rankings and reviews are not affected by payments from the insurance companies. The compensation we receive allows the site to be free and regularly updated. Our goal is to review every pet insurance provider, but not all companies are listed on the site.
And many of the companies we review do not pay us anything. We simply rate, compare and review their plan because we feel it will be valuable to you. Our reviews are guaranteed to be unbiased, professional and advertising compensation does not influence rankings.
We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about pet insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything pet insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by pet insurance experts.
UPDATED: Jan 8, 2024
Pet Insurance U receives compensation from the third parties included on this site. This includes payment for clicks from our site to insurance providers’ sites and quote requests generated. Our rankings and reviews are not affected by payments from the insurance companies. The compensation we receive allows the site to be free and regularly updated. Our goal is to review every pet insurance provider, but not all companies are listed on the site.
And many of the companies we review do not pay us anything. We simply rate, compare and review their plan because we feel it will be valuable to you. Our reviews are guaranteed to be unbiased, professional and advertising compensation does not influence rankings.
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Have you ever been surprised by an unexpectedly high vet bill? Like medical care for humans, veterinary care is pricey, but it can be a lifesaver if your pet needs emergency medical treatment.
Luckily pet insurance plans are designed to provide pets with the lifesaving services they need, without breaking the bank for their owners.
If you live in Iowa, you might be wondering what pet insurance options are available to you.
As a resident of the Hawkeye State, you have access to some of the nation’s premier pet insurance providers and a variety of affordably priced coverage options.
In this article, we’ll explain just how pet insurance works and present you with our top picks for Iowa pet insurance.
Need Pet Insurance?
FACT: Pet insurance pays up to 90% of vet bills when your pet is sick or injured!
Best Pet Insurance in Iowa
A lot goes into picking the right pet insurance provider.
Ultimately, you should pick a highly regarded company that offers the plan you need at a price you can afford.
These companies shine in terms of customer service, coverage, and competitive pricing.
We’ll break down the basics of each company below.
Embrace
Embrace is a pet insurance company that truly has it all, with robust accident and illness coverage and optional wellness care to help with your pet’s routine vet expenses.
It’s also hailed for providing its policyholders with a solid customer experience.
Here are a few more details about what Embrace has to offer:
- Affordability: Embrace is one of the most cost-competitive pet insurance providers, both for dogs and cats.
- Extensive coverage: Embrace’s policies cover a long list of conditions, including hip dysplasia, IVDD, and cancer.
- Wellness care: If you opt for Embrace’s additional wellness package, you can get reimbursed for up to $650 of annual routine veterinary expenses.
- Reimbursement: Embrace will reimburse as much as 90% of your qualifying vet expenses.
- Claims: Embrace’s online and app-based claim filing is simple, and you can get your reimbursement by direct deposit.
Learn More: Read our full Embrace Pet Insurance Review
PetFirst
Another top pet insurance provider for Iowa residents is PetFirst, a MetLife company.
PetFirst is a purr-fect pet insurance choice for cats and dogs alike, no matter their age.
With accident and illness coverage and a routine wellness rider, you can get a truly comprehensive insurance plan for your pet.
Here are some notable features of PetFirst’s coverage:
- User experience: PetFirst has secured an A+ from the Better Business Bureau, due to its communication with clients and satisfactory claims process.
- Brief waiting period: Most companies enforce a strict 6 or 12-month waiting period for illnesses, but PetFirst has one standard 14-day waiting period for all of its coverage.
- No upper age restrictions: While your pet needs to be at least 8 weeks old to get insured with PetFirst, the company will not turn away your dog or cat because of old age.
- Policy limits: With three levels of coverage, you can choose between $2,000, $5,000, and $10,000 of maximum annual benefits.
- Discounts: PetFirst has two notable discounts that are easy to access: the multi-policy discount and the claims-free discount.
Learn More: Read our full PetFirst Review
Pets Best
Pets Best is yet another exceptional choice for pet insurance in Iowa.
Pets Best has something for everyone, with both accident and illness plans and wellness coverage.
Their plans are well-priced for cats and dogs, a particularly good choice if your pet is aging.
Take note of the features of Pets Best’s coverage below:
- Coverage: Pets Best’s coverage is expansive when you combine the standard accident and illness coverage with a routine care plan, including coverage for vaccines and prescription medications.
- Accessibility: Pets Best is a wonderful choice for older pets, with no maximum age limits.
- Waiting period: Pets Best’s waiting periods vary, with a 3-day waiting period for injuries, 14 days for illnesses, and 6 months for cruciate ligament conditions.
- Maximum benefits: Pets Best offers flexible policy options, with more affordable coverage maxing out at $5,000 a year and a robust Elite plan offering coverage with no annual cap.
- Deductibles: Also flexible, you can set your deductibles anywhere between $100 and $1,000.
Learn More: Read our full Pets Best Review
Healthy Paws
Perhaps the easiest option for pet insurance in Iowa, Healthy Paws offers pretty straightforward coverage and claim filing.
While you won’t find a wellness policy option for routine care, the company’s accident and illness plan provides extensive coverage at competitive rates.
Here are a few things to keep in mind as you consider Healthy Paws’ coverage:
- Congenital or hereditary conditions: Healthy Paws covers conditions like hip dysplasia if your pet is under the age of 7, with a 12-month waiting period.
- Coverage: Healthy Paws’ plans include alternative treatments, and you’re covered at any licensed veterinarian, regardless of their affiliation.
- Reimbursement: A Healthy Paws plan will cover as much as 90% of your pet’s medical expenses.
- Maximum benefit: One of Healthy Paws’ biggest advantages is its complete lack of caps on coverage.
- Online experience: You can find useful pet resources on the Healthy Paws website and app and file claims effortlessly.
Learn More: Read our full Healthy Paws Review
Nationwide
Nationwide is on your side whether you have a snake, rabbit, parakeet, or a long list of other exotic animals.
While most pet insurance providers restrict their coverage to dogs and cats, Nationwide extends its coverage to over 20 species of animals.
It also provides traditional accident, illness, and routine care coverage to dogs and cats. Here are some details about what these policies encompass:
- Customer service: It’s no surprise that the household name has top-notch customer service, earning it an “A+” from the Better Business Bureau.
- Customizable coverage: To truly tailor your coverage, you can choose between an accident/illness plan, a stand-alone routine care plan, or one that combines both.
- Maximum benefits: Nationwide’s Pet Wellness plan limits annual benefits to $10,000, but its other two plans offer limitless coverage.
- Deductibles: Nationwide’s deductibles range anywhere from $10 to $250.
- Brand recognition: Nationwide isn’t the most affordable provider in most cases, but its brand and high standards in the insurance world are second to none.
Learn More: Read our full Nationwide Pet Insurance Review
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What Does Pet Insurance in Iowa Cover?
Your pet insurance plan can look different from one company to the next, but most accident and illness plans include a similar list of coverages and exclusions.
Read on to see what is, and isn’t, covered by your pet insurance policy.
What’s Covered
Most accident and illness policies cover the following conditions and expenses, at a minimum:
- Accidental illnesses + injury
- Blood tests
- Cancer treatment
- Chronic + congenital illness
- Emergency treatment
- Exam fees
- Hospital stays
- Prescriptions for approved conditions
- Procedures for approved conditions
- Ultrasounds + X-rays
Related: 10 Things You Must Know Before You Buy Pet Insurance
What’s Excluded
Though your provider might tack on a few of the coverages below, most of them will be excluded:
- Behavioral therapy
- Boarding + grooming
- Dental procedures
- Elective surgeries
- Pre-existing conditions
- Routine/preventative care
- Spaying + neutering
If you’re looking for more comprehensive coverage, adding a wellness rider or purchasing a routine care plan is a worthwhile option.
How Does Iowa Pet Insurance Work?
Before you go online to purchase a policy, take a moment to review the terms below.
They’re the cornerstones of a pet insurance policy, and it’s important to get a basic understanding of how coverage works so you can make an informed purchase.
- Deductibles: Before your coverage kicks in, you have to pay a certain amount of money out-of-pocket. In some cases, the deductible might be $25, while your provider may allow you to opt for a higher deductible, like $1,000, to get lower rates.
- Premiums: Premiums are the payments you’re required to make, usually monthly, to keep your pet’s policy up.
- Reimbursement: After you pay your deductible, your policy will likely reimburse you for 70 to 90% of your pet’s veterinary bill.
- Waiting Period: The waiting period is a timeframe between the date you purchase your policy and the date your pet’s expenses are eligible for reimbursement, usually 1 to 14 days for injuries and 6-12 months for some illnesses.
Pet Insurance Iowa Prices
Pet insurance isn’t a one-size-fits-all product. As such, the price of coverage can vary quite a bit from one pet to the next.
Here are some of the key factors that determine how much you will pay for your pet’s policy:
- Coverage Level: Are you looking to add wellness coverage to your policy? Do you want a plan with no cap on benefits? If so, your pet’s plan will be more expensive.
- Location: If you call Des Moines or another heavily populated city home, your pet’s policy will come with a higher price tag.
- Policy Structure: How much you want to be reimbursed, and how much you’re willing to pay in deductibles, will have an effect on the cost of your pet plan.
- Risk Level: Some pets are riskier to insure than others. That’s why dogs are more expensive to insure than cats, older pets are costlier than younger ones, and breeds with statistically higher health risks cost more to insure.
While your rates can fluctuate based on the factors above, the average amount that pet owners pay for a policy is between $30 and $50.
In many cases, cat owners in Iowa pay closer to $20 a month.
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Shopping for Pet Insurance in Iowa
Your pet’s healthcare doesn’t have to put a massive dent in your budget.
Pet insurance is one of the most flexible types of insurance you can buy, allowing you to tweak your coverage, reimbursement level, and deductibles to build a plan that meets your needs.
Whether your goal is solely to protect your pet in case of emergency or you want additional benefits for your dog or cat’s routine care, there’s a policy and pet insurance provider for you.
Whatever stage of the pet insurance process you’re in, a great step forward is getting online quotes.
From there, you can easily buy a plan if you’re ready to, or keep shopping to ensure you get just the right coverage for your furry friend.
Other articles you may find helpful:
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The Best Pet Insurance By State
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The Ultimate Guide to Safe Foods for Dogs
Finding the best pet insurance companies can be challenging, especially, if you are looking for an emergency vet near you. Here’s a list of the best pet insurance companies in your State.
New Hampshire, Arizona, Florida, Illinois, Texas, California, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Washington, Seattle, Iowa, Oregon, Minnesota, Utah, Idaho, Hawaii, New York City, North Carolina, Maine, Rhode Island, Ohio, Connecticut, Pennsylvania.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the top pet insurance providers in Iowa?
Several top pet insurance companies operate in Iowa, including Embrace, PetFirst, Pets Best, Healthy Paws, and Nationwide. These companies offer various coverage options and competitive pricing.
What does pet insurance in Iowa cover?
Pet insurance plans typically cover expenses related to accidents and illnesses for your pet. Coverage can include veterinary visits, surgeries, medications, and treatments. Some policies may offer additional coverage for routine wellness care.
How does pet insurance work in Iowa?
Pet insurance operates similarly to other insurance types. You choose a plan, pay premiums, and when your pet needs medical care, you submit a claim. After meeting deductibles and considering reimbursement rates, the insurance provider covers eligible expenses.
What factors determine the cost of pet insurance in Iowa?
Several factors influence the cost of pet insurance, such as your pet’s age, breed, location, chosen coverage, deductible, and reimbursement level. Rates can vary based on these elements.
Is pet insurance necessary in Iowa?
While not mandatory, pet insurance can be highly beneficial in covering unexpected veterinary expenses. It offers peace of mind and financial support during emergencies or costly treatments.
Where can I find affordable pet insurance in Iowa?
To find affordable pet insurance in Iowa, you can compare quotes from different providers. Many companies offer online quotes where you can customize coverage and review prices.
What are the typical coverage exclusions in pet insurance policies in Iowa?
Common exclusions in pet insurance policies include pre-existing conditions, cosmetic procedures, breeding costs, and certain hereditary conditions. Review policy details to understand specific exclusions.
Can pet insurance rates differ for cats and dogs in Iowa?
Yes, the cost of pet insurance can vary between cats and dogs, with rates typically differing based on factors like age, breed, and coverage needs.
How can I start shopping for pet insurance in Iowa?
To begin shopping for pet insurance in Iowa, consider researching top providers, comparing coverage options and prices, and obtaining quotes online. This helps in making an informed decision based on your pet’s needs and your budget.
Is there a directory or resource for finding the best pet insurance companies in Iowa?
Yes, directories and resources online offer information about pet insurance companies operating in Iowa. These resources provide reviews, comparisons, and guides to assist in choosing the right insurance for your pet.
Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap pet insurance rates.
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Dr. Pippa Elliott BVMS, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr Pippa Elliott BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in companion animal practice. In 1987 she graduated from the University of Glasgow, with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She works at Blythwood Vets and the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA). Pippa is an advocate of Fear-Free Practice, an animal addict, and a veterinary writer. She is also w...
Veterinarian
We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about pet insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything pet insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by pet insurance experts.