Pet Wellness Plans vs. Pet Insurance: What's the Difference?
By Dr. Kirk Wright, DVM · Updated
People often tell me they have "a plan" for their pet, and it is not always clear what they mean. Wellness plans and pet insurance are different products that solve different problems.
This article does not rank any company. It explains the difference so you can ask the right questions.
Pet insurance
- Protects against unexpected costs, such as accidents and illness.
- Works like other insurance: you pay a premium, and the policy reimburses part of eligible bills, usually after you pay the vet.
- Has deductibles, limits, waiting periods, and exclusions, including pre-existing conditions.
- Usually does not cover routine care unless you add an optional wellness add-on.
Wellness plans
- Are usually offered by a clinic or a company, and bundle routine care such as exams, vaccines, and certain tests.
- Often spread the cost of routine care into monthly payments.
- Are not insurance, so they generally do not protect against a large, unexpected bill.
- Vary a great deal, so check exactly what is included and what is not.
Which fits you?
Ask yourself what worries you most. If it is a sudden large bill, insurance, or a funded savings account, addresses that. If it is the predictability of routine costs, a wellness plan may help. Some owners use both, or choose a savings account instead. Read the full terms of anything you buy, and ask for the list of what is covered. Our articles on pet insurance terms and on whether insurance is worth it can help.
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Frequently asked questions
Does a wellness plan cover emergencies?
Usually not. Wellness plans generally cover routine care. Check the plan's list of what is included.
Can I have both insurance and a wellness plan?
Many owners do. Read each one's terms so you know what overlaps and what does not.
Educational information only. This is not veterinary advice for your pet and does not replace an exam by your veterinarian. Emergencies and disclaimer.
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