Pet Insurance: Do You Really Need It?

As pet parents, we want to do everything we can to keep our pets healthy and happy. But what about when the unexpected happens–like a broken leg, a surprise illness, or an overnight trip to the emergency vet–being emotionally prepared is only half the battle. Financially, the cost of care can be a real shock. That’s why more and more pet owners are asking about pet insurance. Whether you’ve never heard of it or you’re debating if it’s worth the monthly cost, this blog is here to help. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what pet insurance is, what it covers (and what it doesn’t), and whether it might be the right choice for your furry friend.

What Exactly is Pet Insurance?

If you’re bringing a new dog or cat home, it’s a good time to start thinking about pet insurance. It works a lot like insurance for people–you pay a monthly premium, and if your pet needs medical care, you’ll be reimbursed for a portion of the cost, usually between 70% to 90%. Although it’s getting more popular now, pet insurance actually started back in the 1980s in the UK and has grown steadily in Canada as vet bills have climbed. These days, you can find customizable plans that suit your pet’s needs and your budget. In most cases, you’ll pay the vet upfront, submit a claim, and get reimbursed. Some providers even offer direct pay to your vet, so you don’t have to deal with claim forms or wait to be paid back–something that can be especially helpful when you’re focused on settling in with your new dog or cat.

Why Vet Costs Add Up Fast

One reason pet insurance is gaining popularity? Veterinary care can be surprisingly expensive—even for routine services. According to the Ontario Veterinary Medical Association, the annual cost of caring for a kitten or new dog can climb quickly when you factor in parasite prevention, vaccinations, deworming, and spay/neuter surgeries. For example, kittens often need several hundred dollars' worth of exams, vaccines, and treatments in their first year alone. Puppies can cost even more, especially when it comes to parasite control and surgical procedures. Even adult pets aren’t exactly low-maintenance—things like dental cleanings, bloodwork, and wellness exams can push your annual costs into the $800 to $1,000 range, or more. When you see these numbers laid out, it’s easy to understand why many pet owners consider insurance as a way to manage both unexpected and ongoing costs.

What Does Pet Insurance Cover?

Most pet insurance plans cover accidents and illnesses– things like broken bones, swallowed objects, infections, cancer treatments, and ongoing conditions such as diabetes or arthritis. Diagnostic services like bloodwork and imaging are usually included, too. Some plans cover alternative therapies like acupuncture or physiotherapy when prescribed by a vet, though in some cases, they’re considered add-ons. Hereditary and congenital conditions are often covered as long as they weren’t diagnosed before you signed up, which is especially important for purebreds. If you want coverage for routine care, some providers offer optional “wellness” add-ons. These can help with costs for annual checkups, vaccinations, flea and tick prevention, dental cleanings, and spay or neuter surgeries. Just keep in mind: preventative care usually isn’t included in standard accident and illness plans. Also, dental coverage tends to vary a lot–some pet insurance policies for dogs and cats only cover dental injuries, while others offer partial coverage for cleanings and disease prevention if you choose a more comprehensive plan.

What Pet Insurance Doesn’t Cover

Like any insurance product, pet insurance for dogs and cats has exclusions, and understanding these limitations can help you avoid surprises later. The most important exclusion is for pre-existing conditions. If your pet has already been diagnosed with a health issue—or even just shown symptoms—before you purchase a policy, that condition won’t be covered. Some companies may make exceptions for treatable issues like ear infections, but that depends on the provider. Most plans also won’t cover elective or cosmetic procedures like tail docking or ear cropping, and costs related to pregnancy or breeding are usually excluded. Behavioural issues might be covered, but only under certain plans–and often only if a licensed vet recommends treatment.

Unless you add a wellness or preventative care package, you likely won’t be reimbursed for routine care like annual checkups, vaccinations, parasite prevention, or dental cleanings. These are considered your responsibility unless you pay for extra coverage. Also, some providers may reduce coverage–or deny it altogether–for older pets or breeds that are prone to health issues. This is why it’s so important to read the fine print and compare policies carefully.

How Much Does Pet Insurance for Dogs and Cats Cost in Canada?

If you’re bringing a new dog or cat home, it’s helpful to know what pet insurance might cost before you commit. On average, Canadians pay between $40 to $70 per month to insure a dog, and $20 to $40 per month for a cat, though premiums vary widely depending on your pet’s age, breed, and where you live. Puppies and kittens tend to be less expensive to insure than older pets, and some breeds—especially large dogs or those prone to hereditary conditions–often come with higher rates. Living in an urban area, where vet costs are typically steeper, can also drive up your premium. The policy you choose plays a big role, too. A lower deductible and higher reimbursement rate will mean higher monthly payments, but it can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket costs when your pet needs care. If you opt to add wellness or dental coverage­–especially useful if you’re starting from day one with a new pup or kitten–you can expect to pay an extra $10 to $30 per month.

Do You Really Need Pet Insurance?

This is the big question—and the answer depends on your personal situation and how you feel about financial risk. For some pet parents, insurance offers peace of mind. They know that if something serious happens, they won’t have to choose between their savings and their pet’s health. Insurance helps offset the cost of emergency surgeries, hospital stays, and treatments for chronic or serious illnesses. For others, especially those with younger or low-risk pets, the monthly cost may feel unnecessary—especially if they’re already saving regularly for pet care. If you’re weighing the pros and cons, consider this: could you afford a $3,000 vet bill tomorrow without going into debt or dipping into emergency savings? If your answer is no, pet insurance might offer you valuable protection.

Pet Insurance vs. Saving for Vet Care: Which is Better?

Some pet owners skip insurance altogether and choose to put money aside in a designated savings account for veterinary care. The upside? You avoid monthly premiums and have full control over how the funds are used. You also don’t have to navigate claims or deal with policy limits. But the downside is risk. If your pet needs expensive care before your savings have grown, you may not be prepared. A major illness or accident in the first year of your pet’s life could cost far more than you’ve saved. That’s why some people choose a hybrid approach. They sign up for a basic insurance plan with a higher deductible and lower premium and still save monthly for routine care and uncovered expenses. It’s a balanced way to stay protected without overspending.

What About Older Pets?

Pet insurance becomes harder to access—and more expensive—as your dogs and cats enter their later years. Some providers have age cut-offs for new enrollments, while others reduce coverage or increase premiums significantly as your pet ages. If you’re looking to insure a senior pet, start by checking whether your preferred provider accepts new applications for pets over age seven or eight. Then, read carefully to see how pre-existing conditions are handled. Many older pets already have a health history, which may limit what insurance will cover.

What to Look for in a Pet Insurance Plan

Choosing the right plan takes a bit of research, but knowing what to look for can make the process easier. Start by thinking about your priorities. Do you want a comprehensive plan that covers everything from emergencies to dental cleanings? Or are you mostly concerned about protecting against big, unexpected costs? Then, compare a few providers based on:

• Coverage type: Some plans are accident-only, while others cover both accidents and illnesses. Wellness coverage is usually optional.
• Reimbursement options: Most insurers offer 70%, 80%, or 90% reimbursement levels. Pick one that balances your budget and risk comfort.
• Deductible and annual limit: Higher deductibles mean lower premiums, but more out-of-pocket expenses. Some plans offer unlimited coverage, while others cap claims annually.
• Exclusions and restrictions: Check how each provider handles pre-existing conditions, hereditary issues, or specific breeds.
• Claim process: Some companies process claims in 2–3 days; others take longer. Mobile apps can make it easier to submit and track claims.
• Customer reviews: Read about other pet owners’ experiences to get a feel for service quality and responsiveness.

It’s also a good idea to talk to your vet. They often have insight into which providers are easy to work with and which policies cover the types of care your new dog or cat might realistically need.

Don’t Forget Preventative Care

If you’re bringing a new dog or cat home, it’s easy to focus on the fun stuff–like toys, treats, and training–but don’t overlook the importance of everyday wellness care. While insurance is great for unexpected emergencies, routine care plays a huge role in keeping your pet healthy and minimizing long-term vet bills. Annual checkups help catch issues early, and vaccinations protect against serious, sometimes fatal diseases. Preventative meds for fleas, ticks, and heartworm cost far less than treating the problems they prevent. Dental care is another big one–untreated dental disease can lead to infections, tooth loss, and event heart complications. Brushing your pet’s teeth, offering dental treats, and scheduling cleanings can help avoid costly procedures down the road. Whether or not you opt for insurance, being proactive about your pet’s health from day one is one of the smartest ways to ensure they stay happy–and your costs stay manageable.

How the Humane Society of Greater Niagara Plays a Role

At the Humane Society of Greater Niagara, we understand the importance of providing the best care for your pets without breaking the bank. Our Full-Service Veterinary Clinic is the only one of its kind run by a Humane Society in Ontario, making it an essential resource for affordable, high-quality care for your cat or dog. Our Niagara humane society clinic offers a wide range of services, from vaccinations and routine check-ups to more complex procedures. What sets us apart is our low-cost, high-volume approach, which allows us to offer veterinary care that is significantly more affordable than other clinics in the region. By choosing HSGN’s clinic, you’re ensuring that your pet gets the care they need at a price that won’t strain your budget. Whether you’re bringing home a new puppy or kitten we can provide everything from initial health assessments to long-term care and treatment options. We strive to offer accessible veterinary services for pet owners in the Niagara Region, ensuring that all animals have the opportunity for a healthy and happy life, regardless of their owner’s financial situation. For more information on how we can help care for your pet, explore our full-service veterinary clinic.

The Bottom Line: Is Pet Insurance Right for You?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. For some families, pet insurance provides financial security and emotional relief. For others, it may not be the right fit. The good news is you don’t have to make the decision alone. At HSGN, we believe pet care should be compassionate, affordable, and accessible. Our Niagara humane society veterinary clinic team is always happy to help you explore your options and decide what makes the most sense for you and your pet. Whether you choose to get insurance or not, we’re here to support you with wellness services, spay/neuter surgeries, and expert advice to keep your dog, cat or small critter thriving. Have questions or want to book a visit at our in-house clinic? Reach out today—we’re here to help!