Is pet insurance worth it for a Basenji?
A survey conducted by the Kennel Club in 2004 showed that Basenjis can be susceptible to certain health complications like bladder infections, dermatitis, etc. Treatment for such issues can cost pet owners a fortune and keeping up with such costs can prove to be difficult for most.
Saving up cash to be able to pay for these medical bills may sound like a good idea but if you have an insurance plan it can help you lower these costs significantly. Most insurance policies will get you 70% to 90% reimbursements on these expenses.
Common health conditions for a Basenji
Basenjis are typically a healthy dog breed but they can be susceptible to genetic health problems. Some of the most commonly occurring health issues in Basenjis are:
- Hypothyroidism: This is a common condition in Basenjis which affects the thyroid gland and can result in slowed bodily functions. Some of the common signs of hyperthyroidism are weight gain, lethargy, skin problems, etc.
- Fanconi syndrome: This is a kidney disease that affects the processing of certain substances. This results in some sugars that should be absorbed into the bloodstream, but are instead being released into the urine.
- Coloboma: This is a genetic disorder in which some areas in or around the eye fails to develop normal tissue. It can affect the iris, the lens, the optic nerve or even eyelids.
What does pet insurance cover for a Basenji?
There are a few different types of insurance plans you can choose from, depending on the coverage you are looking for.
- Accident only: These plans will cover your expenses only if the medical costs are a result of an accident.
- Accident and illness: This is the most commonly purchased pet insurance. It provides good all-around care as it covers medical costs for accidents and illnesses.
- Wellness add on: Certain insurers allow their clients to buy additional coverage on top of their insurance policies to cover expenses like routine vet visits, burial or cremation, dental care, etc.
Pre-existing conditions are excluded from coverage by most insurers. Typically, pregnancy, death, or theft are also not covered. It is a good idea to inquire about these exclusions before you make a decision.
How are pet insurance premiums determined for a Basenji?
The insurance premiums for your Basenji can vary greatly depending on a few factors. Some of the factors that play a role in deciding your insurance costs are:
- Insurance plan: The insurance type you choose will affect the insurance premium since the more coverage you opt for, the more expensive it will be.
- Pet’s information: Your dog’s breed, age and gender are taken into account when determining your insurance premium. Dog breeds that are more prone to health complications have higher premiums. Male and older dogs have higher premiums as well.
- Your location: Where you are located will affect the insurance premium you pay. Typically, medical care for pets are more expensive in bigger cities which results in higher premiums.
How to choose the best pet Insurance plan for a Basenji
Searching for the best insurance plan for your Basenji can be a difficult task. Picking a plan that will meet your and your pet’s needs will require you to do some homework but can be a life-saver in the long run. Some factors you should consider before you buy an insurance plan for your pet are:
- Comparing insurance providers: A side-by-side comparison of different insurance providers can be very beneficial. This will give you the relevant information you need to find a plan and provider that will give you the coverage you need for the best price.
- Your dog’s needs: Different dog breeds are known to be susceptible to different health issues and learning about your pet’s potential health problems will help you make a more educated decision.
- The coverage: You should talk to your insurance provider and clarify what is covered and what is excluded from coverage. You do not want to end up in a situation where you make a claim only to get denied because that condition is not covered.