ASPCA | Pet Insurance Review

I had this coverage on my GDS, Caesar II, four years. The renewal premiums always seemed reasonable, until the 15% increase last year. As I realize there would be increase, this was considered more than usual.I purchased this premium for peace of mind. If there was an accident, I knew that at least some portion of my expenses would be recovered. I submitted several claims over the years,and felt that the reimbursement rates were fair. Except for the initial charge for the doctor encounter If I could suggest a change to the coverage, I would re-evalute the geographical findings, as $39.00 is an impractical amount in the year 2011. In speaking with my vet, she very much agrees. I have had some positive experience with the coverage, and would purchase it again.

We rescued a one year old lab/border collie mix last year. Given the amount of energy Grady has, we wanted accident protection for him in case of an injury. We bought the level one coverage last year. As expected, Grady took a run through the woods and returned with a chest laceration requiring stitches. We were very pleased that ASPCA processed our claim in a timely manner. The provisions of payment were as described at the time of purcahse. We just renewed and increased to a level 2 coverage this year. We will continue to purchase this coverage for piece of mind.

I had this insurance on my adult Leonberger for years which is why I selected them for my new Leonberger puppy. His insurance coverage--Level 3--went into effect on November 15, 2010. During the rains we had in Southern California, he skidded down a muddy hill and slammed into a concrete abutment on our patio. That was AN ACCIDENT. He was covered under this policy for accidents--even the lower levels cover accidents on the date the policy goes into effect. He sustained a severe injury to his left front leg and ultimately, he required surgery by a veterinary orthopedist. This insurance company has denied payment of ALL bills, claiming it was an illness. The pathology report and all of the vets have called the mass removed which hampered his growth and ability to walk--a SEROMA. Seromas are caused by trauma, not illness. ASPCA still ignores my calls and letters and refuses to pay. I plan to sue but I would tell everyone to avoid signing up to this company. You are better off without insurance then to pay them a monthly fee when they refuse to honor their own contracts! The worst thing for us is because ASPCA Pet Insurance refuses to pay on this accident, we cannot afford to take him for the physical therapy that he needs to rebuild his leg and he remains in discomfort. I have taken a job and gone to work to save up for his rehabilitation but that takes time. If they would pay what their contract states--80%, we could begin therapy immediately.

With three active dogs (Thomas. Daniel and Jenny), there alway seems to be an illness or accident (however minor) cropping up. My husband and I are very glad we have the ASPCA insurance plan and wish we had had it when one of our former dogs (Meggie) tore first one ACL, then the other.My only problem is with the terms of the policy renewal, when a condition is treated in one calendar year and becomes "pre-existing" in the next, resulting in no further coverage for that issue. I can't imagine what would happen if human coverage ended that abruptly.

One never can expect the unexpected. I have three young cockapoos, one of which suddenly became prone to ear infections and quickly required a decision on essential and expensive surgery. After much research and stress in making the decision to complete the surgery, it sure was nice to know I had ASPCA insurance. The surgery was successful and the claim payment was received within a few weeks. In a stressful situation it sure was nice to know I had one saving grace, ASPCA!