9 Best Pet Insurance Companies in New York of 2023

Your dog or cat can have accidents or get sick just like humans do.

Even one unexpected visit to the vet can blow your budget away, often costing thousands of dollars for an emergency visit.

And even if your vet visit is just for an annual check-up, you’ll still pay a lot in out-of-pocket costs.

New Yorkers love their pets but living in a busy and crowded city that means that your pet's chances of injuries and incidents might be higher.

Upstate New York has lots of wild animals, brush and rough terrain which also might make your pet more likely to run into health or physical problems.

Regardless of if you live in Manhattan, Albany, Ithaca, Rochester, or the Catskills, you want to ensure that your pet is well cared for when sick or injured, pet insurance can give you peace of mind by covering a percentage of the cost and leaving you to pay as little as possible after you meet the deductible.

But finding the insurer that best suits your need can be difficult.

You’ll have to cut through many exclusions and you may have to pay additionally if you want your pet to get wellness care.

We’ve put together a list of best pet insurance companies in New York ranked by category to give you an idea of what’s out there.

Lemonade: Best Pet Insurance for Necessary Add-Ons

Lemonade's stand-out feature compared to other insurance companies is there employment of technology, starting from their quoting system to their claims submission.

In addition, Lemonade’s pet insurance is known for its comprehensive accident and illness plan, spectacular preventative care options, affordable premium costs, and an all-AI service with a website and app that saves you time.

However, Lemonade’s pet insurance premiums can be higher in certain geographical locations such as New York due to not just cost of care but also higher frequency of incidents such as getting hit by a car.

Noteworthy Features

• According to Lemonade, most pet claims are reimbursed in minutes.
• It’s also known for its add-on coverage, which includes the following:
• Vet visits are covered. This helps you pay for exam fees when you visit a vest.
• Physical therapy treatments such as acupuncture care.
• The insurer offers two plans for preventive care:

The affordable plan covers a wellness exam, a fecal test, three vaccines, a heartworm test, as well as a blood test.

The more expensive plan covers everything in the affordable plan and adds coverage for flea, tick, and heartworm medications and routine dental cleaning.

Wagmo: Best Pet Insurance for 100% Reimbursement

Wagmo offers wellness plans rather than the traditional pet insurance policy. The wellness plan is like a membership plan, and this means that Wagmo will cover eligible day-to-day essential coverage as well as preventative care.

What’s more, Wagmo is that very rare insurer that offers 100% reimbursement for its wellness pet insurance claims.

After you meet the deductible, you receive a reimbursement for 100% of what you paid for at the vet for things you have coverage for under your policy.

The highest percentage off you usually get from other insurers is 90%

Wagmo is also a popular choice because it is one of the few plans that guarantee a 24-hour turnaround on reimbursements.

In other words, you get your reimbursement within one day of filing your claim.

Again, this is exclusive to Wagmo because other similar pet policies take between 8 to 10 business days to reimburse you.

Noteworthy Features:

Here are some features to consider before purchasing Wagmo insurance for your pet.

• Average claims processing time is 24 hours meaning turnaround is pretty fast.
• Wagmo has a choice of deductible tiers: Your choice between $500, $750, or $1,000.
• Benefit have limits: A lifetime limit of $100,000 and a per-incident limit of $10,000.
• Options available for all health and need levels.
• Mid-range pricing; website claims average premium cost is $44.89 per month.
• 15-day waiting period
• No unlimited coverage option.

Fetch By the Dodo: Best Pet Insurance for Covering Older Pets

Fetch by the Dodo offers many things that other insurers charge extra for or don’t cover at all.

One of the most important features is that they do not deny coverage for any old age-related reason.

Older pets are prone to more accidents and illnesses which can be costly for insurance companies. To reduce this risk most pet insurance companies will not cover new pets over a certain age limit.

However, if you enroll a pet six years of age or older, your pet will first need a veterinary exam within the 30 days before or after the policy start date.

For those pets who are younger, they only need to have been examined by a vet within the last twelve months.

To reduce any coverage problems, it’s best to enroll your pet when it’s young or when it is healthy.

That way, if your cat or dog gets sick, or if they get in an accident, your pet will be covered by your policy.

However, if your pet is six years or older and dies of an illness, Fetch will not reimburse you for your pet’s death.

Noteworthy Features

• The average claims processing time is 15 days
• Complete sick visits are covered, as well as exam fees. A sick visit can be costly, so this coverage can save you a hundred dollars or more.
• Fetch covers injury and disease in every adult tooth—not just the canines.
• Fetch also includes coverage for hereditary conditions for specific breeds, which other companies often exclude.
• No Denied Coverage

Odie Pet Insurance: Best Pet Insurance for Tech-Savvy Owners

Odie Pet Insurance caters to the tech-savvy and, in so doing, makes purchasing a policy easy and quick.

You can purchase Odie Pet Insurance exclusively online using the insurer’s website.

In addition, you can get your policy documents within minutes of checking out.

Odie Pet also has a 24/7 self-service portal where you can view your account information, track and manage claims, and even insure more pets.

And for those who aren’t tech-forward, you can submit claims not only online, but also by mail, fax, and email.

Whatever works for you, Odie makes the claim process easy.

Noteworthy Features

• The average time in which claims are processed is 4-5 days.
• More affordable than many competitors.
• All breeds are covered.
• Some dental coverage is provided.
• Accident-only, accident and illness, and routine care coverage options are offered.

MetLife/PetFirst Pet Insurance: Best Pet Insurance For Discounts

MetLife, also known as PetFirst in a handful of states, has a lot going for it.

It’s your choice to pick any licensed vet or emergency clinic you want, although you can only do this in the U.S.

You can also receive up to 100% reimbursement for covered events.

In addition, there are no breed exclusions with MetLife, and you don’t need an initial exam or previous vet records to purchase a pet policy.

And if your pet is at least eight weeks old, that means you can insure your pet at any time you want.

But what stands out is MetLife’s discounts, of which there are many.

Some are multi-pet, animal care, discount for the military and healthcare workers, and if you don’t file a claim in a year, the insurer will automatically decrease your deductible by $25 or $50.

Noteworthy Features

• The average Claims Processing time is 10 days.
• Some pre-existing conditions can be covered if insurance is offered through an employer
• Covers common ligament injury and disc disorders only after 6 months of coverage.
• MetLife is an old national insurance company which means more robust financials and experience in the insurance industry.
• Grief counseling available
• Ability to rollover health benefits from the previous year

Pet Assure: Best Pet Insurance Alternative for Pre-Existing Conditions

Pet Assure is one of the most popular pet insurance alternatives on the market.

It’s not a traditional insurance plan like the ones we chose on our list.

Rather, it’s a discount service program, so rather than paying a monthly premium to a pet insurer, you instead enroll in a membership fee program in exchange for reduced-price services.

That’s usually a 25% discount on almost all of the services your vet provides, but keep in mind your vet must participate in the Pet Assure discount program.

But the one benefit that stands out is that Pet Assure covers pets with pre-existing condition. And that’s because there is no pet insurance out there that takes on pets with pre-existing conditions.

Pre-existing conditions mean your policy won’t reimburse you for issues your dog or cat had before you enrolled in a policy.

So, older pets, who often have numerous health issues, will be covered.

This is a game changer for the pet industry, and it also saves you money.

Average Claims Processing Time: No insurance claims required

What’s Included in Pet Assure Discounts

Participating Pet Assure veterinary practices will give you a 25% discount on all medical care provided in the office by the vet staff. This includes:

• Dental cleanings
• Dental exams and X-rays
• Sprays and Neuters
• Routine Care
• Vaccines
• Cancer Care
• Hospitalization
• Wellness Visits
• Surgical Procedures
• Emergency Care

Spot: Best Pet Insurance for Customizable Plans

Spot Pet Insurance began in 2019, and while it is relatively new, it has garnered gushing reviews on many pet insurance websites.

Spot stands out for having the most customizable plan options compared with similar insurers. It has two standard plan options that give pet owners some options.

Accident-Only Plan

This covers accidents such as injuries, swallowed objects, and toxic ingestions. This plan is for those who are on a budget and only need coverage for emergencies. Since the plan is so cheap, it doesn’t cover illnesses or other conditions.

Accidental-Illness Plan

This plan is more expensive than the accident-only plan, but you get comprehensive coverage if your pet experiences an accident or illness.

Included in this plan is everything that the cheaper plan offers plus more.

It covers general illnesses, behavioral issues, dental disease, hip dysplasia, heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.

Plus, pet owners are also able to purchase additional two tiers of preventative care coverage, which can cover vet exams, deworming, spaying/neutering, dental cleanings, microchipping, and vaccinations.

Noteworthy Features

• Average claims processing time is 14 days but can be sooner for claims regarding routine visits and treatment.
• Alternative therapies, therapeutic diets and supplements are covered.
• Comprehensive preventative coverage available.
• Easy online claims submission.
• Chronic conditions, hereditary and congenital disorders, and behavioral issues are covered.

Nationwide: Best Pet Insurance for Exotic Animals

Nationwide’s pet insurance is the only one that covers exotic animals, which comparable companies do not.

The company’s avian and exotic pet coverage option is for small mammals and birds.

Other exotic animals are also covered, such as reptiles, small mammals, and even goats and pot-bellied pigs.

Nationwide is best because it offers comprehensive insurance for unconventional pets or pets often excluded in other policies.

However, some animals are excluded, such as venomous or endangered species.

Noteworthy Features

• Claims get processed on average from 9-12 days.
• Coverage is offered to a wide variety animals some even that are not considered legal in certain states.
• Unlimited lifetime benefits option available.
• Live Vet Helpline available to all its members.
• Holistic and alternative treatments are covered.
• Offers three-tiered plans but a la carte coverage is also an option.

Pumpkin Pet Insurance: Best Pet Insurance Overall

Although Pumpkin Pet debuted a few years ago, it has already garnered great customer reviews for what they offer that most other insurers don’t.

Pumpkin has a waiting period of just 14 days for all conditions, including hip dysplasia and knee injuries, as well as general illnesses and accidents.

Other insurers have a six-month waiting period, particularly if your dog has knee and ligament issues.

For pets who have arthritis or chronic pain, a vet may offer you alternative therapies, such as acupuncture, stem cell therapy, and behavioral therapy.

Most insurers do not cover the above therapies, but Pumpkin does, as long as any treatments are accepted by, and performed by, a licensed vet.

Most insurers don’t cover pets 14 years or older and often limit your reimbursement percentage. But Pumpkin Pet doesn’t exclude elderly pets and has a flat 90% reimbursement for all pets regardless of their age.

Many insurers will not pay for your dog’s illness or injury if they deem that these things could have been prevented.

But Pumpkin Pet will pay for such services.

In addition, the insurer also doesn’t require a vet exam before offering coverage.

Noteworthy Features

• Average claims processing time is 14 days.
• One of the most comprehensive coverage list.
• 90%-100% reimbursement makes it one of the highest in the industry.
• Some pre-existing conditions will be covered if they are curable.
• Shorter waiting periods.

What is Pet Insurance in New York?

Much like human health insurance, pet insurance covers the cost of medical care.

For example, if your dog gets sick or if your cat is injured, pet insurance can help you pay for these ailments.

Pet insurance offers peace of mind. It decreases the financial burden when an insurer can cover some of your pet costs up to the particular plan limit.

It is the best way to save on expensive pet insurance bills, which can cost thousands of dollars when your pet gets into an accident or has an illness.

Even if your pet is young and healthy, your pet may have genetic tendencies or behavioral issues that may require you to visit a vet.

Most New York pet owners think of their pets as their best friends and part of the family. You want your dog or cat to live long and be healthy.

That’s why we recommended pet insurance.

What are the Plans for Pet Insurance Policies?

There are two plans that pet insurers offer.

And then there is a wellness plan that you have to add on to your coverage and which you have to pay extra for.

Accident-Only Policy

Pet insurance for accidents is the most basic plan, and the cheapest.

The accident-only plan covers any medical care for unexpected injuries to your pet.

An accident that is covered is when your pet is injured after it gets hit by a car and which may result in broken bones and physical injuries.

Also, this policy can be crucial to have if your cat swallows a toy and needs surgency.

But if your pet gets sick, this plan does not cover illnesses.

The Accident-Illness Plan

The accident-illness plan is the most common plan that pet owners buy. It often covers both accidents and unexpected illnesses. The illness coverage covers treatments for viral infections, parasites, hip dysplasia, and tooth extraction due to dental diseases.

However, this plan won’t cover preventive care or pre-existing conditions.

But the good thing is that you can get reimbursed for almost everything when you combine both plans.

Most accident and illness plans cover the following:

• Surgery, like cruciate ligament tears, cataracts, and more.
• Tests like x-rays, blood tests, MRIs, ultrasounds, and other diagnostic tests.
• Emergency care or emergency exam fees.
• Hospitalization.
• Treatment for illnesses like cancer or infections.
• Unexpected illnesses like broken bones.
• Prescription medication

Wellness or Preventative Coverage

Wellness is not considered pet insurance. It is a plan that you most likely will have to buy as an add-on to your policy.

Wellness plans cover routine care, blood work, dental care, preventative care, deworming, spraying or neutering surgery, checkups, and yearly vaccines.

The plan helps you make your insurance more comprehensive, but it does not cover accidents or illnesses.

If you go with the accident and illness plan, note that it rarely provides wellness coverage.

A wellness plan can make your rate more expensive. But if you anticipate taking your cat to the vet at least once a year for an exam or vaccination and don’t want to pay out-of-pocket, then this plan is for you.

What Is Not Covered in Pet Insurance?

Pet insurance has many exclusions. In fact, its exclusions far outweigh covered conditions.

Pet insurance does not cover spraying/neutering, wellness exams, and vaccinations. Listed below are some common exclusions.

Waiting Period

There is a waiting period—usually between 10 to 30 days—in which there is no coverage for your pet after you buy a policy.

Preexisting Medical Conditions

The most common exclusion is the preexisting medical condition. This means that if your pet has a medical history, whatever it includes won’t be covered.

Note that nearly all pet policies will exclude coverage for pets with pre-existing conditions.

Bilateral Condition

The second most common exclusion is when both sides of your pet’s body suffer from hip dysplasia, cruciate ligament issues, or cataracts.

Bilateral condition is usually covered, but if your pet has already developed a condition on one side of its body before your pet was insured, most policies will not cover this medical problem.

Preventable Diseases

If your negligence causes you to not get your pet vaccinated for a preventable disease and then your pet gets that disease, the treatment will often be excluded from your policy.

Preventable diseases include canine influenza, kennel cough, giardia, and parvovirus.

Breed Exclusion

If a certain breed of your pet is susceptible to certain medical conditions like diabetes or ligament injuries, the pet will most certainly be excluded.

However, you can get breed pet coverage as an add-on with your insurer, but at an astronomical price.

Age Exclusion

Most pet insurance policies will not cover a pet younger than eight weeks of age and older than 14 years or even older.

And even if you find coverage for your older pet, note that your policy will keep going up the older the pet gets.

Elective Procedures

Elective procedures are usually not covered. These include anal gland expression and removal, tail docking, ear cropping, nail trimming, feline declawing, and dewclaw removal.

How Much Does Pet Insurance Cost in New York?

Pet insurance has high rates in New York due to unsafe locations and busy streets.

For a healthy two-year-old dog that has its home in the 10001 zip code—one of the most expensive locations in New York—pet insurance can cost as low as $40 per month or higher, at just under $100 per month.

The cost of a policy depends on not just your zip code, but also the breed of your pet, its age, and its medical history.

How Does Pet Insurance Work?

Most pet insurers allow you to choose a licensed vet for treatment. This way, you don’t need to worry about whether the vet is “in network.”

Pet payment is like this. You pay the vet bill upfront, and then you get reimbursed after you submit your receipt to the insurer.

If you are on a budget, you should look at those insurers that can reimburse your vet directly so you don’t have to pay for up-front costs that you may not be able to afford.

Then you can make a claim with your insurer by showing your receipts.

After your insurer approves your claim, they will send you a check or deposit the money into your bank account.

Reimbursement funds are often issued within 5-7 days after the insurer receives your claim.

For example, what if your reimbursement level is 80% and your claim is for $1,000.

Your insurer will end up paying $800 and you will only have to pay $200.

It should be stressed that you also must pay your deductible every time you file a claim.

The most common deductible amounts are $100, $200, and $500.

Are There Factors That Can Affect My Pet Insurance?

Below are a few factors that could affect how much of your vet bill your insurer will cover.

Payout Limits

Maximum payout limits are the amount of money the pet insurance company will reimburse you.

Three payout limits are as follows:

Maximum Payout Per Incident

This is the maximum amount of money your insurer will reimburse you for each new illness or injury. After you reach this limit, you will no longer be reimbursed to cover that particular injury or illness.

Maximum Annual Payout

This is the maximum amount of money the insurer will reimburse you each policy year. After you reach this limit, you will no longer get any payouts during that policy year.

Maximum Lifetime Payout

This is the maximum amount of money your insurer will reimburse you during the lifetime of your pet. After you reach this limit, your pet will no longer be covered.

Deductibles

A deductible is the amount you pay out-of-pocket before your pet insurance starts paying.

In most cases, the deductible is applied annually.

Some insurers allow you to choose the deductible you want on your policy.

If you decide to pay lower monthly premiums, you can set your deductible as high as you can afford.

The higher the deductible, the lower your premium costs will be.

If you want your insurer to pay for every bill, you can choose a $0 deductible.

However, doing so means your premiums will be prohibitively expensive.

Reimbursement Level

Reimbursement rates refer to the percentage of costs an insurer will reimburse.

Many insurers allow you to choose the percentage.

If you opt for a higher reimbursement rate, more of your pet’s visits to a vet will be paid by your insurer.

The reimbursement level is taken as a percentage. The best pet insurance plans have a reimbursement of 80% to 90% of your total vet bills.

In certain cases, the reimbursement rate is 100%, which means you will no longer have to pay for coverage.

For example, Wagmo offers 100% of coverage and is one of the few plans that guarantee a 24-hour turnaround on reimbursements.

In other words, you get your reimbursement within one day of filing your claim.

Waiting Period

Waiting periods refer to the amount of time your pet insurance requires you to wait until your pet is eligible for reimbursement on specific conditions.

But if your pet is injured from an accident, the policy will kick in almost immediately, around just a few days.

Note that the waiting period for illness coverage is often longer, between 14 or 15 days.

However, some waiting periods take several months and up to a year if your pet has orthopedic problems.

Our Methodology

How We Picked the Best Pet Insurance Companies in New York

We did so by emphasizing on discounts, coverages, and pricing,

Discounts

Most pet insurance companies offer limited discounts. We chose those that had enough discounts to make a dent in your premium.

Coverages

Since each pet is unique, coverages should be tailored to match a pet’s specific needs. The insurers that made our list had comprehensive and customizable coverages.

Price

To keep costs down, we chose companies that had discounts to lower your policy and have reimbursement rates of 80% to 90%.

With a high reimbursement rate, visits to vets always will be paid by your pet insurance and the percentage not covered will be negligible to you.