[takeahike]

I think my dog is showing signs of pancreatitis but I don’t have insurance. Can I sign her up for insurance now and still get it covered?

[Kimberly Alt]

I’m so sorry to hear about your dog. Unfortunately, pancreatitis will most likely be considered a pre-existing condition by pet insurance because symptoms are already showing before you’ve signed up and waiting periods have passed.

Upon enrollment, insurers may require a vet exam or your pet’s medical records. If a vet exam is required for enrollment, the insurer typically requests it be within 30 days of the policy’s effective date. During this appointment, your vet will assess your dog’s overall health and note any abnormalities. Some providers require a detailed exam of your dog’s legs and hips for orthopedic issues.

Additionally, providers may collect this information by analyzing your dog’s past vet records. If your dog hasn’t had a recent vet exam, the insurer may ask you to have your dog assessed.

Generally speaking, pre-existing conditions are determined as accidents and illnesses that have manifested before the policy’s effective date or during the waiting period.

However, a few insurers offer coverage for curable pre-existing conditions if they are free from treatment and symptoms for a set period. Conditions that may be covered include ear infections, urinary tract infections, kennel cough, gastrointestinal issues, and more. Furthermore, AKC Pet Insurance is entering new territory for the industry and offering coverage for pre-existing conditions after 365 days of continuous pet insurance coverage.

[Author]

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