Ever wondered the true value of pet cover? Read this

Last updated on 5th January, 2024 at 02:17 pm

All pet owners want the furry member of their family to live a carefree and healthy life. Sadly, the reality is that they’re not exempt from nasty surprises. An expert unpacks the ins and outs of pet cover, and how it can save you substantially in the long term.

How much can pet accidents cost me?

Owning a domestic dog or cat brings with it many happy memories and hours of play – but to keep them healthy, routine vaccinations, deworming and preventative tick and flea control in the warmer months are essential. These aren’t covered by pet accident cover. To add, your curious furry friend might find themselves in a spot of discomfort – having swallowed an object or being stung by an insect (excluding fleas and ticks).

“An accident such as a foreign body removal can cost as much as R25 000, whereas an allergic reaction to a bee sting can cost approximately R700,” shares Robyn Lee Kotze of Hollard Pet, underwriters of Petsure. Bear in mind that costs also depend on the severity of an accident, the frequency of accidents, and even the type of vet required for a procedure, among other factors.

What constitutes a claimable accident?

According to Kotze, the accident you claim pet cover for needs to be a direct result of at least one of the following incidents:

• Motor vehicle accident;
• Burn or electrocution;
• The actions of another animal;
• Swallowing a foreign object requiring surgical or endoscopic removal;
• Snake bite;
• Allergic reaction to an insect bite other than tick or flea bites;
• A fracture;
• A broken bone;
• A traumatic ligament or tendon injury;
• Lacerations, abrasions or wounds

According to the policy document, “[Hollard Pet] will reimburse 100% of eligible vet expenses (provided by a registered vet), less a R300 excess per accident claim for treatment costs incurred if your pet is accidentally injured during your paid-up membership of Fedhealth Medical Scheme.”

Costs covered include hospitalisation, medicine, drugs, X-rays, pathology and consultations.

What can’t I claim from Pet Accident Cover?

As the name suggests, this benefit is strictly available for accidents where your pet incurs an injury. “[The cover] does not cover illness or routine preventative treatments like vaccinations and deworming,” notes Kotze.