insurance

Q. Many people are curious about the benefits and downsides of pet insurance. 
What are your experiences with pet insurance?

Note: This isn't a forum to trash or promote particular companies. Please share 
your general experiences so that others can shop wisely.

A.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

My father and I built a four-wheeled cart for my Whippet, Kaiyne. He's loves to 
pull his cart, and he looks so cute in it. I'll be sure to update with some 
pictures!

Alex and HurriKaiyne Raptor  Victoria Australia - 
Tuesday, October 29, 2002 at 17:31:37 (EST)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I HAVE NO EXPERIENCE WITH PET INSURANCE I NEVER HAD PET INSURANCE I'VE ALWAYS 
USED CASH.

TASHIA MCFADDEN  COLUMBUS, OHIO USA - Wednesday, October 09, 
2002 at 10:45:04 (EDT)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

"PLEASE HELP"!!! I have never even heard of pet insurance before until I had 
taken my 7 mo. old Miniature Schnauzer (Littlebit) to the a Vet with some 
unexplained behavior such as constant walking in circles, walking backwards and 
one even more odd is I have found her in a corner with her hind legs up on the 
wall trying to climb up the wall. She panics and can’t seem to figure out if 
she would walk forward she could get herself out of the situation. I was told 
that it sounds like "Portosystemic shunts" (PPS) which I have never heard of. 
But it's some kind of liver disease in which abnormal blood vessels bypasses 
the liver and without surgery she will eventually die. This has really broken 
my heart because I love my Littlebit. But I can’t afford the medical expensive 
of surgery without some kind of help. So if ANYONE who knows of a good Pet 
insurance that can help me, "PLEASE LET ME KNOW! I would forever be grateful 
because I'm so confused on the pros and cons. And I can’t afford to choose the 
wrong one. PLEASE HELP ME HELP MY LITTLEBIT! She's my baby and I love her 
dearly!

Karyn  Odessa, Texas USA - Monday, October 07, 2002 at 
18:59:59 (EDT)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I currently have pet insurance but am forced to find another company. My 
underwriter (Premier Pet Ins) sent me a registered letter stating they are 
discontinuing coverage on my two year old Bichon without any further 
explanation.

I have done a lot of research and there are not a lot of companies in the USA 
just yet who cover both preventative wellness care and accidental. I also had 
dental coverage through Premier and was very happy with their coverage until I 
received this letter.

Any advise or input would be greatly appreciated. I am also going to post a 
message to the group. Thanks much.

Linda  Bayville, NJ USA - Wednesday, September 18, 2002 at 
11:50:25 (EDT)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I realise the intent of the forum is to discuss pet insurance in general. 
However, it seems you can't discuss it in a helpful way without discussing how 
it works out in practice.

My first attempt to obtain pet insurance has not worked out well and I think it 
would be helpful to other people to know why.

In principle I feel that veterinary health insurance is an excellent idea for 
anyone with limited financial resources.

But I think others might like to hear about my experience with Veterinary Pet 
Insurance (VPI) based in California. Especially since others have praised it in 
this forum.

After enrolling my pet I realized I had inadvertently given VPI the incorrect 
credit card number for billing purposes. So I immediately called VPI to correct 
the error.

And then ....... I spent SIX WEEKS (YEP. 6 WEEKS)trying to speak to someone at 
VPI to correct the error.

I made approximately 15-20 contacts with VPI by telephone calls, messages left 
with people at VPI, voicemails,emails and letters.

Not only was I never able to resolve the problem, I could not even get someone 
to talk to me - by phone or mail.

Eventually, I got a response. But only after threatening the company and its 
officers with legal action.

I am just so glad I found this out now, before I actually had a claim. It would 
be awful to be trying to get a response from them related to a claim for 
important veterninary care.

This company seems like a disaster to me. So it seems important to be careful 
before enrolling in a particular plan.

e burke  sacramento, ca USA - Saturday, September 14, 2002 at 
23:32:17 (EDT)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Advances in veterinary medicine have impacted veterinary care by increased 
hospital charges. Pet insurance can make it easier to meet the health needs of 
your pet without busting your budget. I found PetCare Insurance Programs 
www.petcareinsurance.com to offer the most comprehensive coverage with only a 
$50 deductible. They also cover heriditary and congenital conditions. My cats 
are covered and a trip to the vet will not break my bank and I don't have to 
skimp on care.

Barry  DeBary, Florida USA - Monday, September 02, 2002 at 
12:34:11 (EDT)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I came here looking for info about the pros and cons of getting pet insurance, 
since that is SUPPOSED to be the topic of the message board. But, as is the 
case on so many other Internet message boards, a lot of people either ignore 
the topic or don't even take time to see what it is, and just start posting 
comments and questions that have NOTHING to do with the topic. Mixed in with 
the information about pet insurance, I see a bunch of posts here that ask 
questions and make comments that are totally unrelated to the topic. C'mon, 
people... READ the topic of a board, and then make sure your posts stick to 
that topic, for goodness' sake!

Jack  Texas USA - Saturday, June 15, 2002 at 12:02:06 (EDT)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Well, here an answer from Holland. I have a pet insurance for our Bernese 
Mountain dog Bowie. We pay 12 euro a month, and the insurance company pays us 
82,2% of the vet-bill in case of a disease. Not all diseases are covered, but 
for example a sterilisation is covered! That's is an expensive operation I 
Believe.

So, my experiences are very good, specially because we can't be surprised by a 
very high bill!

greetings

Saskia

Saskia  Eindhoven, Holland - Thursday, 
January 31, 2002 at 13:44:01 (EST)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I have a 3 yr old male neutered Bernese. He required surgery to correct a 
dysplastic hip, and surgical removal of his anal glands. I have PetCare's 
MasterCare Premiere and am happy with it. I am also a Registered Vet . Tech who 
has been in the field for 11 yrs (7 yrs as a tech) Our clients have had bad 
experiences with PetPlan, and when PetCare came on the market we were hesitant 
to recommend it, but so far they have been helpful and I have yet to wait more 
tha 10 business days for a cheque after submitting a 
claim.

Tanya Canada - Wednesday, January 30, 2002 at 20:31:34 (EST)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Are pet insurance is going fine

kITTY Pleasanton, CA USA - Wednesday, January 02, 2002 at 14:47:40 (EST)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

My dog's insurance sucks! Yesterday he got in a bad car accident and broke his 
rib, leg, and hip bone! My insurance only payed the for the x- rays! I had to 
pay 5,000 dollars!

Terri  Lawrenceville, Ga USA - Wednesday, January 02, 
2002 at 11:18:45 (EST)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

HI I live in Vancouver, Canada and am waiting for a Berner puppy due to be born 
in Nov (can hardly wait!!) I have found 3 pet insurance companies and would 
love to hear from anyone with recommendations or complaints about them: 1 
Petcare www.petcareinsurance.com 2 Vet Insurance www.vetinsurance.com 3 Pet 
Plan www.petplan.com Also would like to know which options they feel were worth 
paying extra for. Thanks!

Jane  Vancouver, BC Canada - Wednesday, October 31, 
2001 at 16:40:36 (EST)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

is this dog noted for a fur that does not shed

brenda gyette  downingtown,, pa, USA - Tuesday, October 23, 
2001 at 18:59:40 (EDT)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

we have 2 BMD aged 2 and 3 years while one has been fit and healthy the other 
has been poorly at times, having a lump removed, and emergency spaying and at 
the moment a infected toe, both my girls are insured and i dont worry about any 
treatment costs just about them when they are poorly, yes i pay extra because 
they are bernese , but i paid more for a bernese breed anyway! PETPLAN have 
been very good to me i have yet to have any kind of problem with them,I pay 
about 44 pounds sterling per month for both dogs. Hope this answers the 
question.

caroline muspratt  walton on thames, surrey englandUSA - 
Sunday, September 09, 2001 at 18:29:09 (EDT)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I'll never forget that evening of september 99'. Joey, our new member in the 
family was just 3 months old. I was sitting in our backyard with him. Suddenly, 
my attention was taken by checking on something at the end of the yard. While 
busy, Joey was crying by the door. I went to him and realised that he wanted to 
go inside. As soon as I opened the door, he rushed toward my younger son's 
bedroom, who was 3 years old then. Colin had woken up after a nightmare and was 
crying. I never heard him since being outside and far from the door. But Joey 
did not only heard him . As soon as I picked up my younger boy in my arm, he 
rushed toward my oldest son's room, making sure he was allright. I knew already 
that Bernese mountain dog were just wonderful animal. But that evening, I knew 
how prepared and mentally fit for children the Bernese mountain dog was. Just 
like a sheperd for his sheeps. It was beautiful and so touching to see.

Jeff Magnan  Pierrefonds, Quebec Canada - Wednesday, 
August 29, 2001 at 22:55:31 (EDT)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

i dont have pet insurance as it is expensive in the uk for large breeds so i 
put away money away in a seperate bank account

simon boncey  uk - Wednesday, August 22, 2001 at 
09:30:05 (EDT)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

On advice from the breeder, I carried on with the insurance that came with 
Brig(my burnese)when he was a puppy. Brig is now 5yrs and I have had, on 
average one claim a year. Until last year, the past claims had all been 
relatively small,but, Burnese, as alot of you are probably aware-dig. Brig 
split a claw on his front paw, which became very infected and adventurly the 
claw and the toe had to be removed. Needless to say this cost a £1,000, alot of 
money in english terms.I think I would also questioned the vet every step of 
the way reguarding the cost, instead of letting the vet get on with treating 
Brig in the best possible way. I was very grateful that I had kept up the 
insurance and they paid out, without a problem. But I do find that alot of the 
insurance companies don't like large breeds and charge accordingly, and here in 
England if you change your insurance to another company, you can find that you 
are not covered for previous illnesses. On the whole I have found that the 
benefits of having insurance far out weigh a small payment each month.

Kerry Creamer  southend-on -sea, essex england - Tuesday, 
July 03, 2001 at 17:26:57 (EDT)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

My pet insurance is fantastic, My pup berner had entropian and bad front legs , 
we managed through diet and not surgery to fix the leg/bone problem but the 
eyes had to be dealt with through surgery 2 operations the bill was paid 
directly to the vets by the insurance company and they sent me a letter stating 
that and I only had to pay for the excess. Three months later my other berner 
had to have emergency surgery a hystorectomyand again it was paid no fuss no 
bother , I have in the past used the insurance for large bills to the vets but 
the yearly fee does not increase at all it is always the same price, my 
insurance company by the way is petplan.

proud owner of 4 berners  scotland, USA - Sunday, July 01, 2001 at 
18:03:06 (EDT)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I do not have pet insurence yet. My dog has Epilepsy and I am having a hard 
time find a company that covers that. Do you have any suggestions??

Jessica  Atlanta, GA USA - Tuesday, April 24, 2001 at 
22:42:51 (CDT)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Hi all, I am all for pet insurance! I show horses and would never own a horse 
without also having horse insurance, so when I purchased my first Bernese 
Mountain Dog I naturally started looking for pet insurance companies. I 
postponed, unfortunately, and in that down time my Siberian Husky's lungs 
collapsed spontaneously ($3000+ in vet bills with no guarantee that she 
wouldn't be back in a short time).

I called Premier Pet Insurance (one of many well-reviewed companies) the day 
after we brought her home and took out a policy on both dogs. It costs me about 
$400/year for BOTH dogs (with a $100 yearly deductible (per dog) and 80% 
coverage up to $10,000 per year/$3500 per incident per dog) and it will cover 
spontaneous pneumothorax should it ever happen to my husky again (there's a 
90-day incident-free clause for pre-existing conditions, I think)
.

Of course having paid $400, I was sure that I would never have another incident 
that would break the deductible. But...

Two months later I noticed a broken tooth in my berner's mouth. It was one of 
the bottom front four teeth and it was broken halfway off. I took him in to the 
vet and was informed that his best bet was to get a root canal by a canine 
dentist (my first reaction was one of disbelief...I've never even had a root 
canal!!!) and it was going to cost a thousand dollars. I immediately called the 
pet insurance company. They covered it without hesitation and I only ended up 
having to pay $180 for an almost thousand dollar procedure. The policy MORE 
than paid for itself with that one incident.

They sent their payment quickly and without any problems. After this experience 
I STRONGLY urge getting pet insurance for ANYONE with pets.

Growing up, my family had many pets (mainly dogs and cats). Every single pet 
we've ever owned (regardless of health, age, or type) has cost us at least 
$1000 in vet bills at some point, whether it was bladder infection, hit-by-car, 
accidental poisoning, raccoon encounter, horse encounter (one poor cat was 
stepped on!), dog attack (one cat who ended up dying, but only after $800 in 
vet bills, and one dog who lived after $2000 in vet bills), hip replacement, 
and finally (of the ones that I remember) pancreatitis (after three weeks and 
almost $5000 in vet bills, our most beloved sheltie died at the age of eight)
.

Pet Insurance may not prevent things from happening, but it sure can make an 
unfortunate situation easier. I've just recently finished paying for my husky's 
spontaneous pneumothorax...sure wish I'd done the pet insurance thing before it 
happened!

Lindsey Fletcher (Stormy the Berner and Kaya the husky)

Lindsey Fletcher  Seattle, WA USA - Saturday, March 24, 
2001 at 17:54:13 (CST)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Therir so cute.

AND YOU ARE TOO I LOVE JESSIRICA

Flordia  Tallahassee, USA - Friday, March 16, 2001 at 
17:17:03 (CST)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Whether you, the owner, will benefit from carrying pet insurance depends upon 
the type of medical problems your pet experiences. In our case, our Berner was 
diagnosed with elbow dysplasia at seven months of age. Our insurance company 
does not cover genetic problems. I don't believe any insurance company does. As 
a result, she has had three operations for a total cost of approximately $6,000 
(all out of pocket). I choose to carry insurance on her in case she suffers 
other medical problems/accidents (such as infections, broken bones, eating 
foreign objects, etc). Although we have not benefited from insurance, I like 
the security of having it, should the need arise.

Marie  flint, MI USA - Friday, March 09, 2001 at 
15:17:56 (CST)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

We have had insurance since we purchased our puppy. At seven months old she 
required an operation to her shoulder which cost £800($1200). She has been 
treated for other ailments since and the insurance has covered every illness. 
She is only 14 months old so we can only recommend that any prospective buyer 
seriously considers taking out insurance. Our policy only costs around £20 ($30)
 per month.

stuart mcinnes  falkirk, scotland - Friday, 
January 26, 2001 at 18:07:05 (EST)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

how are they with children

susan  longbranch, nj USA - Tuesday, January 02, 2001 at 
18:56:17 (EST)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Recently our five month old Golden Retreiver Louie ate a rock and had to have 
emergency surgery. This incident occurred on a Friday and he had to stay the 
weekend at an emergency vet clinic ($$$) until it was safe for him to come 
home. The breeder we bought Louie from takes out insurance on all of her 
puppies for the first two months of their lives and then it is the owners 
decision to continue or not. I am sooooo glad we did. Had we not we would have 
almost 900$ in vet bills. Because of pet insurance we will have about half of 
that to pay. It is so worth it. We only pay 9.50$ a month - 120 a year. It has 
already paid for itself for 4 years!!!

Melissa Heckle  Seaford, VA USA - Saturday, November 25, 
2000 at 10:05:17 (EST)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

from our experience, we have megan a 6 year old 'puppy' and to date she would 
of cost us a small fortune due to: lameness spine problems skin complaint miscl 
other illness with a giant breed the costs a huge so therefore insurance is a 
big must.

we are with pet plan here in the uk - total recommend this insurance company - 
very little problems

regards victor de maio

victor_de_maio  swindon, Wilts England - Monday, 
October 23, 2000 at 14:46:36 (CDT)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I just lost an 8 year old female black lab/Newfoundland to a rare liver 
disorder, copper toxicosis. We had an ultrasound/liver biopsy done to determine 
this. We treated our girl for 5 months before she lost her battle. I would say 
roughly that it cost into the thousands of dollars to treat her disease. It was 
$80 per month alone for her copper chelating drugs. Money that I don't for one 
second regret spending to have her spend 5 more comfortable months with us, we 
loved her so. Fortunately, I have a wonderful veterinarian who was more than 
willing to accept payments when we didn't have the full amount available. We 
still have our 7 month old German Shepard/Rottweiler mix we adopted from the 
Humane Society. And when we are ready, we are looking to adopt another dog. A 
Bernese Mountain Dog is one of the breeds we are considering. I'm in the 
process of researching pet insurance to take care of both dogs, I think it's a 
great idea, I wish I would have gotten it before. I'm leary of getting into a 
contract with a shady insurance company, however, so if anyone has any specific 
companies to recommend, that would be great.

Shelli  Minnesota USA - Sunday, October 01, 2000 at 18:57:25 
(CDT)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

i have never had to deal with pet insurence because my bernese dogs have always 
beeen so kind to all people and other dogs the are very friendly dogs! and 
wouild nevr hurt a fly!

mollie hefeneider  portland, oregon USA - Friday, September 
22, 2000 at 13:41:39 (EDT)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

My insurance company has never let me down! The customer service has been 
excellent and understanding, especially in sad times when my dog had to be put 
down. They've always been very clear with respect to coverage and 
reimbursements.

One thing- always check for "exclusions and extra charges" for particular 
breeds.

margaret markham, ontario canada - Friday, September 08, 2000 at 19:26:48 (EDT)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

we used the kennel club of great britain pet insurance scheme and found very 
good our puppy developed an unusual gait when walking slowly and needed three 
lots of x-rays and a referal to an orthpoedic specialist only to discover that 
she has double jointed knees!!!that will cause her no problems in later life. 
it was easy to claim and the payments came through on time her diagnosis cost 
about £470 all told

alison  manchester, lancashire uk - Sunday, August 
20, 2000 at 12:20:12 (CDT)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I'm sorry, I have a question and I really need the help of other Berner owners 
on this one. My 5 year old berner has gotten very growly with me and my family 
--only when he is either doing something he knows he shouldn't or when he is

helene emery  denville , nj USA - Sunday, August 06, 2000 at 
10:21:40 (CDT)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Hi

My dog is scared of water or swiming in the ocean ,i would love it if my dog 
could take just a small swimm when its warm or just play with me in the water , 
but she scared and i dont know what to do ........

Melissa - Alisson Brault  Sept0iles, Quebec Canada - 
Tuesday, August 01, 2000 at 13:24:20 (CDT)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I have had insurance with two co.'s, VPI (still in existence), and another 
which was owned by Fireman's Fund. (MEDIPET??) The latter was much better, 
because it paid a percentage (alot) of the bill, instead of A % of a set amt. 
-- a BIG plus on Long Island where vet bills are high. However, this co. went 
out of business because, they told me, not enough people were interested in 
buying it!! Their loss. It was a big help as my previous Lab had two big bills 
-- D-Con rat poisoning and horse manure ingestion, which fermented in his 
stomach & had to be removed due to gangrene .. he had these ailments while 
under 8, when I was covered, and kept out of harm's way till he was 13 & died 
of natural old age causes. Bottom Line: YES, GET INSURANCE IF YOU CAN, IF ONLY 
F

Mary Franklin  Westhampton, NY USA - Wednesday, July 26, 
2000 at 14:04:30 (CDT)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I'm not sure what pet insurance does. Will it pay for injuries, medical 
treatment, or what??

Pam  boston, MA USA - Wednesday, July 19, 2000 at 11:26:46 (CDT)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I have seen a BMD with blue or green (not sure) eyes. Is it a variety of the 
breed? How can I buy one, if it is not for sale in Brazil?

Antonio Macedo  Fpolis, SC Brasil - Friday, July 14, 
2000 at 00:08:47 (EDT)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I have never heard of it! How does it work?

Antonio Macedo  Florianópolis , SC Brasil - Friday, July 14,
 2000 at 00:03:30 (EDT)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Who are some breeders' adresses in NY or in NJ?

Jessica USA - Sunday, July 02, 2000 at 14:28:43 (CDT)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

im doing a report on bernese mountain dogs and i was wondering about the main 
facts and the history of the dogs. If they were ever used as gaurd dogs and if 
they are dogs that are fit for warm, and wet summers and cold and wet winters 
and any other facts or info about them that you could give me?

Parker  Yarmouth, Maine USA - Tuesday, April 18, 2000 at 16:15:38 
(CDT)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

How much does the Bernese mountain dog typically weight?

Dan Matthias  Redmond, WA USA - Monday, April 10, 2000 at 
23:30:24 (CDT)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Just an FYI--I work for a major property/casualty insurer in the U.S. There was 
a court case in Michigan recently in which a dog was killed by an automobile. 
The court ruled that the pet was tangible property and therefore covered under 
the auto's property protection coverage. If you have an animal that is struck 
by an auto, you may have cause to make a claim against the insurer of the 
vehicle that hit the animal.

Matt Fennelly  Clawson, MI USA - Thursday, April 06, 2000 at 
11:45:59 (CDT)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I would definitely recommend getting insurance. I have a four month old Berner, 
who, at 11 weeks, swallowed a small bone in someone else's garden. Over £1,000 
(not sure what the rate of exchange is at the moment!) later, we have a healthy 
dog again. Although we'd only had him a few weeks, we were already really 
attached to him and would have been devasted if he had died (which he very 
nearly did). We have a £40 excess on the policy, and they have been pretty slow 
to pay up at times -but pay up they have! At least you know that should 
anything unexpected happen, the outgoing of vets bills will be shortlived. One 
respondent recommended putting the insurance money away each month, to use in 
the eventuality of illness or accident. It's a nice idea if you have the will 
power! I know I haven't! Good luck and best wishes to all dog lovers out 
there.

Daniela McKinnon-Green  Bromley, Kent England - 
Tuesday, April 04, 2000 at 14:42:19 (CDT)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I HAVE TWO GERMAN SHEPHARDS AND WOULD LIKE TO KNOW IF THERE ARE ANY TOLL FREE 
NUMBERS TO CALL FOR PET INSURANCE. I THINK THAT COVERAGE WOULD BE GREAT IF NOT 
TOO COSTLY. DOS IT INCLUDE MATERINITY BENIFITS AS WELL? MY FEMALE JUST HAD 7 
PUPPIES.

PHYLLISS CARR  NORTH CAROLINA, USA - Thursday, March 23, 
2000 at 16:58:41 (CST)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I HAVE TWO GERMAN SHEPHARDS AND WOULD LIKE TO KNOW IF THERE ARE ANY TOLL FREE 
NUMBERS TO CALL FOR PET INSURANCE. I THINK THAT COVERAGE WOULD BE GREAT IF NOT 
TOO COSTLY. DOS IT INCLUDE MATERINITY BENIFITS AS WELL? MY FEMALE JUST HAD 7 
PUPPIES.

PHYLLISS CARR  NORTH CAROLINA, USA - Thursday, March 23, 
2000 at 16:57:59 (CST)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Not having any experience with pet insurance has left me in a major hole. My 
Berner was only three years old and was diagnosed with lymphoma cancer 
throughout her GI tract. Three surgeries later and only six weeks, she has 
passed on. Don't get me wrong, I will never regret spending all the money I did 
trying to save her, but now that she's gone it would have been a little easier 
if I had the insurance. I figured why get it, she is so healthy and perfect and 
let me tell you, she left as quickly as I had her.

I will get another Berner and I will get insurance this time so maybe I could 
have tried more for her.

Suzanne Shortman  Highland Lakes, NJ USA - Thursday, 
March 16, 2000 at 11:23:19 (EST)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

We have 2 BMD, one 14 months and one 3 months, and we have pet insurance on the 
older dog. However, we are debating whether to get it for the younger dog, as 
the insurance company doesn't cover HD and the older dog has a dodgey hip . . 
.

Any companies out there that do cover Hip Dysplasia in BMD's?

Jeff

Jeff Boock  Minturn, Colorado USA - Tuesday, March 07, 
2000 at 02:48:18 (EST)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I have a berner called Tia who, unfortunately has had the misfortune to have 
been born with elbow displasia, if we hadn't had insurance for Tia it could 
have cost us £1000.00 in vets fees, as it was we only had to pay £45.00 excess 
on the policy. A lot of people could not have afforded to pay this and 
therefore perhaps the dog may have had to continue to suffer throughout it's 
life. I would highly recommend you insure your berner,think of the problems 
your berner could cause if it got out onto the main road!

Mandy Macrae  Aberdeen, United Kingdom USA - Tuesday, 
February 15, 2000 at 11:13:20 (EST)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

WHAT DOES YOUR INSURANECE COVER? IHAVE TWO KITTENS ABOUT 8 WKS. 1. BOY 2. GIRL 
WHAT MAKES YOUR INSURANCE OFFER.WHY WOULD I NEED INSURANCE? WHAT DO U COVER? 
WHAT DONT U COVER.CAN I USE ANY VET I CHOOSE? DOES THIS COVER OFFICE VISITS? 
HOSPITALAZATION.I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW ALL Q&A ABOUT PET INSURANCE. ALSO IF APET 
GET SICK OR IN A ACCIDENT.IF GOD 4 BID ANY OF THE ABOVE 7 MORE Q. OLD AGE WHO 
TAKES CARE, IF PET DIES?

BARBARA DIAMOND  NYC., NY. USA - Thursday, January 27, 2000 
at 23:02:34 (CST)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

WHAT DOES YOUR INSURANECE COVER? IHAVE TWO KITTENS ABOUT 8 WKS. 1. BOY 2. GIRL 
WHAT MAKES YOUR INSURANCE OFFER.WHY WOULD I NEED INSURANCE? WHAT DO U COVER? 
WHAT DONT U COVER.CAN I USE ANY VET I CHOOSE? DOES THIS COVER OFFICE VISITS? 
HOSPITALAZATION.I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW ALL Q&A ABOUT PET INSURANCE. ALSO IF APET 
GET SICK OR IN A ACCIDENT.IF GOD 4 BID ANY OF THE ABOVE 7 MORE Q. OLD AGE WHO 
TAKES CARE, IF PET DIES?

BARBARA DIAMOND  NYC., NY. USA - Thursday, January 27, 2000 
at 23:01:16 (CST)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

we have only had our berner about 8 weeks and the first thing we did was to 
find out exactly what was on offer re pet insurance. we shopped around and 
found that with our local nfu office (we are members of the nfu) we could 
obtain full insurance and vets cover less than half the price of that offered 
by either the vet or kennel club. Yes we did check the contents of the policy 
and we cannot see any problems with the ins we took out.

kaye johnson  Leicester, leics england - Sunday, January 16, 
2000 at 13:28:03 (EST)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I have emailed almost everyone on this list. I am VERY interested in pet 
insurance. I have a two and a half year old black lab named 'Shiva" and was 
wondering if anyone knew of a good insurance policy for dogs in my area or 
country wide? I believe it is a wise idea to have it. I live in the city, and 
my dog comes in contact with ALOT of dogs with the dog run we have here. I 
would like insurance incase of any problems. Even if I lived outside the city, 
my dog could get hurt and would want insurance for her. She is like my child. I 
have raised her and spent ALOT of time with her. Since I am the only owner, we 
have a STRONG bond, and would hate to not beable to pay for any operation or 
problem that may arise. Most animal hospitals want money up front even in an 
emergency before they will treat your dog. I was told I would have to give a 
credit card before my dog could be seen in an emergency. They only examined her,
 and never did xrays, which I wanted, because I had no cash or credit card on 
me. This is an animal hospital. It is not like I would not pay, but at the time 
I was not prepared and I dont often carry credit cards or hundreds of dollars 
around with me. So if anyone knows of good insurance, please email me. Thanks, 
Corey

Corey Mondello  Boston, Massachussettes USA - Monday, 
January 10, 2000 at 14:51:34 (CST)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

We have five older cats - all around twelve to fifteen - and have had two come 
down with significant health problems this year. We are very interested in pet 
insurance and are starting the research, but are wondering if anyone out there 
has insured an older pet and found it worthwhile? Also, anyone gotten insurance 
for a cat with FIV? Is it possible? This one is dormant right now...

Melinda Robillard  Austin, TX USA - Sunday, January 
09, 2000 at 22:47:32 (CST)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

What other pet insurance companies are there that any of you can recommend? 
Please feel free to email me directly, I would love to know! I have been 
shopping around for another one. One that was recommended PetGold or something 
has already disappeared, disconnnected number! My experience with the big one, 
VPI, has been similar to those of shady human medical insurance companies 
(those that eventually get brought down in a class action suit) - they delay 
(claim to never receive documents), then deny; then you re-submit and they 
delay some more, maybe deny again...then only if you persevere and submit your 
documentation a third time, they pay. Very terrible experiences, and sadly, 
very consistent. Their "staff vets" will claim that everything is an 
"exclusion" until you point out that the printed list clearly shows it as 
covered. Very shady operators. VPI used to be a good and honorable company two 
years ago; it now seems that profits have compromised their business ethics. 
Regrettably, I could not recommend them now.

dawn  L.A., CA USA - Monday, December 27, 1999 at 
22:36:29 (CST)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I attempted to get 3 policies for my 3 dogs from Veterinary Pet Insurance. I 
got the address on the 'net at www.petinsurance.com. After I sent the money 
required, this company claimed I had given them permission to withdraw money 
from my checking account. They now will not return my phone calls. I am still 
waiting to hear from them about the money I have invested, thus far. Be very 
careful; these companies, even when advertised by your own veterinarian, can be 
fly-by-night entities which prey on animal lovers by offering quick relief for 
high vet bills! Anyone else have this problem with this or other companies??

Dawn Watson  Voorhees, NJ USA - Tuesday, December 21, 1999 at 
13:02:18 (EST)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Carefully selected a plan that would not penalise too heavily for over 8s - my 
last Bern was 13 when he died.

Looked for cos that don't load for mountain breeds (see VERY small print 
somewhere obscure)

Look for cos that don't exclude HD & other hereditary conditions (my boy is 
under 2 & has a dogdy left hip)

For large claims be prepared for subsequent exclusion clauses at time of policy 
renewal.

Kathy > chichester, England - Wednesday, 
December 08, 1999 at 15:07:26 (EST)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

We purchased a basic policy for our dogs last year (JRT, mixed breed, and GSMD),
 and have been extremely satisfied with it. Over the course of one year we 
saved almost $1400 with only a little over $300 for the policies. There is no 
way we would be without it for our dearest friends. We chose a policy that has 
a maximum of $1700 per incident ($7500 per year)rather than one that had a 
specified amount for a particular accident or illness; allowing only a couple 
hundred dollars for each. For instance one policy allowed only a few hundred 
dollars for what they called "gastric upset". That would not have come close to 
treating a bloat with torsion. And if we don't file any claim next year...that 
would be a good year!

Christine  Ypsilanti, MI USA - Tuesday, December 07, 1999 
at 18:26:43 (EST)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Where can I get insurance for my pets?

Jody Dunklee  Bethel, VT USA - Tuesday, November 23, 
1999 at 17:06:17 (EST)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Could someone please help me locate a breeder named Leanne Brownsteinin, I 
think she lives in New Jersey or PA, ? We bought a puppy from her 5 years ago , 
and we need to get in touch with her. We really would appreciate any help. 
Thank

Rhonda Vinson  USA - Thursday, October 21, 1999 at 17:35:31 
(EDT)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

We have a 1 yr. old Berner, Chiti, whom we brought back from Switzerland (I 
lived there for 6 years). We got Chiti when he was 12 weeks old. As soon as we 
arrived in the States (when Chiti was 4 months old) we got pet insurance for 
him. When we got Mabel, our black Lab, a few months later, we also got pet 
insurance for her. It has already paid for itself several times over. Puppies 
have a tendency to explore things (i.e. chewing up a potted plant that 
contained fertilizer which resulted in an overnight hospitalization at an 
energency vet clinic, Total bill, $800). One dog, one chewing incident. Vet 
insurance covered most of the costs. I think it is wise to maintain pet 
insurance for your pets, particularly dogs - esp. when they are young, as they 
can get into so many things. People insure their "material possessions", why in 
the world wouldn't they insure their pets?! Another added benefit of pet 
insurance, you receive a tag to put on the dog's collar that identifies that it 
is covered by pet insurance. If for some reason your dog manages to get out and 
is hit by a car or injured by another dog and is taken to the vet, the vet will 
provide full care to the dog rather than just "stabilize it".

nancy owens  philadelphia, pa USA - Friday, October 08, 1999 
at 16:40:49 (EDT)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

My large Male (Joey) developed a hemangiosarcoma (Blod Vessel Cancer) and his 
vet bill from UC Davis was in excess of $5,000. I was lucky as I did request 
the additional cancer endorsement which ended covering this type of cancer, and 
payed over 1/2 of the bill. Joey ended up passing away from this, 6 months 
later but it would have been extremely hard fianically to justify this expense. 
It was an additional @$20 per year, but in my case it was well worth it! Cancer 
seems to be the prevailing cause of death, so I think that it's well worth it 
for those of us wi

Mary Chamberlin  Nevada City, CA USA - Tuesday, 
September 14, 1999 at 00:27:19 (EDT)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I think pet insurance can be a good thing and wish I had had it a year ago when 
our 4 month old Berner decided to become part deer and eat old corn cobs found 
in the woods. That surgery was a hefty bill. Now that he's older and doesn't 
seem to share the same qualities as deer do we feel more at ease but are 
planning on getting insurance.

Terri Stone  Spotsylvania, VA USA - Thursday, September 02, 
1999 at 12:42:58 (EDT)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I worked at a veterinary hospital for 2 1/2 years in Missouri, and when we 
compared the cost of insurance to our prices for services, almost all of our 
clients would come out ahead by NOT purchasing pet insurance. Barring the 
unforseen, like an accident with a car, our fees for treating illnesses were 
lower than the insurance fees plus what they didn't cover. And our fees for 
vaccinations and other routine procedures were cheaper. Our research also 
showed that most companies do not cover conditions which are prevalent in the 
breed. For example, your Labrador Retriever or German Shepherd probably would 
not be covered for hip dysplasia. Maybe in bigger cities where fees are higher 
insurance would be a savings, but not in Cape Girardeau, MO.

Lee Ann Newman  Vilseck, Germany GE - Friday, August 20, 
1999 at 12:30:52 (EDT)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I will be picking up a berner pup on the 20th of August. I do plan on having 
him insured. I work at a vet clinic and have seen many people use the insurance 
plans and haven't heard one complaint. I also know of several large breed 
owners who have insurance, they do not consider them viscious breeds. I believe 
that would fall under the catagory of discrimination. As most of us have 
experienced, most "so called" viscious breeds are not so unless raised to be 
that way. Just my opinion. I believe the insurance I am getting is around 
$15/month or $171/year. Worth it to me for sure!

Tina  Honesdale, PA USA - Tuesday, August 03, 1999 at 17:14:15 
(EDT)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

it's great to have because you can always keep your dog [bernease] out of harms 
way

andre boyle wescosville, pennsylvania USA - Tuesday, July 20, 1999 at 11:22:53 
(EDT)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

As an animal control officer, I can see no valid argument for not possessing 
insurance. We collect many injured animals whose owners are faced with a 
massive veterinary bill for emergency treatment following road accidents. The 
argument that the dog never leaves the yard or is always under the owners 
control just doesn't cut it when you have a bleeding mass of dog in the back of 
your vehicle. If you insure your own body, insure your friends'.

Iain Shute, Animal Control Lethbridge, Alberta Canada - Saturday, June 26, 1999 
at 16:00:51 (EDT)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

We've had great experience with pet insurance, and it has been worthwhile. 
Earlier this year, we were hit with an unexpected pet bill due to the fact that 
our golden had two rotten teeth. That bill was HUGE, and we had to pay it in 
full. We also had a 10 week old puppy, so we decided to go ahead and purchase 
pet insurance for both dogs. We have never had pet insurance prior to this. 
About a month later, our golden chipped his tooth in the back, exposing the 
nerves. He had to get that tooth pulled, and the bill was also quite hefty. Our 
pet insurance covered half the bill, which was really nice. We also get 
reimbursed for our puppy's rabies and other vaccinations. Plus, it feels really 
good knowing that in a catastrophe, our dogs are covered, and so are we!

Teri Sabat  Cypress, CA USA - Thursday, June 24, 1999 at 
18:25:00 (EDT)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I think pet insurance would be a very good thing to have during the first year 
or 2 of your dogs life, since if any major genetic problems are going to 
develop chances are they will show up during this time...just be careful that 
what the insurance actually coveres will benefit you. It would have been very 
nice to have insurance when my dog got hit by a car when she was 10 months old 
and it took about $3000 to save her life. Not an easy thing to come up with on 
a moments notice, and insurance would have covered everything.

Angela Hoskinson  Edmonton, Alberta Canada - 
Wednesday, June 16, 1999 at 19:14:21 (EDT)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I think pet insurance would be a very good thing to have during the first year 
or 2 of your dogs life, since if any major genetic problems are going to 
develop chances are they will show up during this time...just be careful that 
what the insurance actually coveres will benefit you. It would have been very 
nice to have insurance when my dog got hit by a car when she was 10 months old 
and it took about $3000 to save her life. Not an easy thing to come up with on 
a moments notice, and insurance would have covered everything.

Angela Hoskinson  Edmonton, Alberta Canada - 
Wednesday, June 16, 1999 at 19:11:30 (EDT)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I am getting a Bernese Mountain dog puppy this weekend, Sunday the 20th of 
June. I already have a 4y/o dog. They are both female. My current dog is a 
Golden Retriever. I was wondering if the breeds will get along. Would they 
fight, since one is a puppy, or just play? I hope to get a fast responce. Thank 
you in advance... Kathy

Kathy Camisa  Fairfield, New Jersey USA - Tuesday, June 
15, 1999 at 18:09:43 (EDT)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Being a dog lover I thought about getting insurance for my animal but didn't. I 
found that the cost would in the end outweigh the money I put into any pet 
care. I think though if you are owning the pet for show and breeding rights it 
is worth considering the animal as an investment and insuring it against loss. 
If you just want it as a companion or pet it would probably be better to put 
that money you would spend on insurance into preventative maintenance for your 
dog, which I'm sure is part of any insurance agreement anyway.

Craig Reimer  Prince George, BC Canada - Monday, 
June 07, 1999 at 23:44:29 (EDT)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I have two Bernese Mountain Dogs soon to have a third. I just wouldnt be 
without pet insurance although in the space of two and a half years the basic 
premiums have increased considerably but having claimed only once on the policy 
to date this would have been a hefty sum to pay out initially if I wasnt 
insured and also this is on going treatment. Alot of pet owners think it is a 
lot of money to pay if you never have to make a claim so one suggestion, why 
not put the money aside every month and then if you don't use it you have a 
nice lump sum in a few years time. I personally like the security pet insurance 
offers as your insured against damage to property, if your pet causes injury to 
another dog or causes an accident.

wendy murray  Essex, United Kingdom - Monday, May 31, 
1999 at 05:24:18 (EDT)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I didn't have to think twice when my vet suggested I look into Pet Insurance. 
With modern day medical technology it is very possible to help our beloved 
pet's through very serious conditions and accidents but at an astronomical 
price. I have already used my pet insurance and have been very pleased with the 
reimbursement percentage and reimbursement turn around time. Please be sure, 
for only pennies more than the basic plan to get as much coverage as you can, 
for example the cancer endorsement plan. Our Tasha will be with us for a long 
long time all thanks to Pet Insurance.

Cathy Weeks  hooksett, new hampshire USA - Tuesday, May 25, 
1999 at 16:26:41 (EDT)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Certain dogs are not covered by most insurance companies because they are 
considered visous animals. The German Shepard, the Doberman, the Rottie,the 
Pitbul, and the Boxer to name a few, I am not sure if the Berner is considered 
one, but most large dogs are. If you can find an insurance company to cover 
your so called "visious dog" it is mare likly than not that you are going to 
pay unimaginable bills due to the breed of your animal.

aletha burmaster yakima, wa USA - Sunday, May 02, 1999 at 22:10:17 (EDT)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------