Does Pet insurance cover dog food? Many have realized that pet insurance is a really helpful financial tool that helps pet owners manage the expenses of veterinary care. The pet insurance plan covers multiple things from routine checkups to unexpected emergencies.
Hence, this is the reason why many pet owners wonder how inclusive their pet insurance plan can be, especially when it comes to essentials like dog food.
Now, while pet insurance can offer peace of mind when it comes to accidents, surgeries, or long-term illnesses, it’s important to really understand the fine print of the policy regarding what is and isn’t covered.
What Category Does Foods For Dogs Fall Under The Pet Insurance Policy?
Dog food usually falls under the category of “everyday expenses,” and this is a category that most pet insurance plans do not include. However, there are some exceptions, especially in cases where a dog requires prescription or therapeutic diets as part of a treatment plan.
General Pet Insurance Coverage And Its Inclusion
Before we deep dive into the specifics of dog food coverage, let’s have a closer, magnified look at what a standard pet insurance plan typically includes.
Most pet insurance companies design their policies around providing financial relief for unexpected or medically necessary expenses. Unfortunately, factors like everyday care or supplies don’t make the cut.
The things pet insurance policies cover includes:
- Illnesses: Chronic or acute conditions like cancer, infections, diabetes, etc.
- Surgical Procedures: From minor surgeries to complex operations.
- Diagnostics and Testing: Blood work, x-rays, MRIs, and other lab services.
- Accidents and Emergencies: Injuries from falls, car accidents, or fights.
- Medications and Treatments: Includes prescriptions and some therapies.
Additionally, some insurers also offer wellness or preventive care add-ons, which may cover things like vaccinations, flea treatments, or dental cleaning.
Does Pet Insurance Cover Dog Food?
Unfortunately, the answer is no. Thetraditional pet insurance does not cover regular dog food. Whether you buy premium kibble, raw meals, or homemade diets, these are considered general maintenance and are typically excluded from reimbursement.
Exceptions
Now, it has been made clear that the standard pet insurance policy doesn’t include or cover food for dogs. However, there are a few exceptions regarding that rule when it comes to medically prescribed dog food.
If a veterinarian prescribes a therapeutic diet to treat a specific illness or condition, some insurance plans will offer partial or full coverage under specific conditions.
Examples of medically necessary diets that may be covered:
- Renal Support Diets for kidney disease.
- Weight Management Diets for obesity-related complications.
- Diabetic-Specific Formulas for managing blood sugar.
- Hypoallergenic or Hydrolyzed Protein Diets for food allergies.
Despite this knowledge, do note that not all pet insurers actually offer this, and when they do, it’s often limited to a certain number of months and may only be available under more comprehensive or premium plans.
Pet Insurance Companies That May Offer Coverage for Special Diets
There are actually some insurance companies that take the leap in including coverage for therapeutic diets under certain policy tiers or add-ons.
These plans are often more expensive but are ideal for pets with chronic conditions requiring long-term nutritional support. Some of those notable pet insurers include:
Embrace Pet Insurance
May cover prescription diets under illness-related claims. What’s more, they have a reimbursement term that is limited to 2 months per condition.
ASPCA Pet Health Insurance
Some of their plans include therapeutic diets under their Complete Coverage option. Furthermore, reimbursement depends on whether the food is used to treat a covered illness.
Nationwide Pet Insurance
is another well known insurance providers that make the list. They offers whole pet plans that may include coverage for prescription food, especially under wellness coverage add-ons.
Trupanion
Offers an optional Recovery and Complementary Care Rider that includes prescription foods when medically necessary. Also, their coverage applies as long as it’s part of a certified treatment plan.
Before you actually settle for a plan, it is wise to always read the fine print or speak to a company representative about food coverage options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Pet Insurance Pay For Grain-Free Or Organic Dog Food?
No, even if the dog food is really high-end or organic, they are still considered general maintenance and hence are not covered. These are not classified as “medically necessary.”
Is Prescription Dog Food Covered If My Vet Recommends It?
This happens only if the dog food is required to treat a covered illness and the plan explicitly includes therapeutic diet coverage. What’s more, you’ll usually need an actual documentation from your vet and a formal diagnosis.
Can I Use A Wellness Plan To Get Reimbursed For Dog Food?
Most wellness plans do not cover dog food, even prescription types. However, some high-tier plans or wellness riders may offer limited coverage for therapeutic diets.
