How to choose pet insurance in Spain

Pet insurance can be a lifesaver for both pet owners and their furry friends. As veterinary costs continue to rise, having a reliable pet insurance policy ensures that your pet receives the best possible care without breaking the bank. However, how to choose pet insurance in Spain that fits all of your pet’s unique needs requires careful consideration and thorough research. This article will delve into the key factors you need to evaluate when investigating pet insurance to ensure you make an informed decision. Or you can jump straight to Caser’s pet insurance options. 

Consider your pet's unique situation

The first step in choosing pet insurance in Spain is understanding the specific needs of your pet. Different breeds, ages, and health conditions can significantly influence the type of insurance required. For instance:

• Breed-Specific Conditions: Certain breeds are predisposed to specific health issues. For example, German Shepherds are prone to hip dysplasia, while Bulldogs often face respiratory problems. Research common health issues for your pet's breed and ensure that the insurance policy covers these conditions. In addition, the breed itself can be important as many policies have exclusions or higher costs for so-called “dangerous dog breeds”. 
  
  
• Age: Puppies and kittens often need different coverage than older pets. Young animals need to receive their microchip, are more prone to accidents and infectious diseases, and have a more rigorous vaccine schedule. Senior pets may require coverage for chronic conditions, age-related health problems, and end-of-life care.
  
  
• Pre-Existing Conditions: Most pet insurance policies do not cover pre-existing conditions. If your pet has an existing health issue, look for insurers that might offer limited coverage or consider alternative options such as wellness centers.

Consider possible costs of pet insurance

The cost of pet insurance is influenced by various factors, and understanding these can help you budget effectively:

• Premiums: The monthly or annual cost you pay for the policy. Factors such as your pet’s age, breed, and location can affect the premium. Shop around and compare premiums from different providers to find the best deal.
  
  
• Deductibles: The amount you must pay out-of-pocket before the insurance starts covering costs. Higher deductibles usually result in lower premiums and vice versa. Consider what deductible amount makes sense for your financial situation.
  
  
• Reimbursement Levels: This is the percentage of the veterinary bill that the insurance will cover after you have paid the deductible. Common reimbursement levels range from 70% to 90%. Higher reimbursement rates typically come with higher premiums.
  
  
• Coverage Limits: These are the maximum amounts the insurance will pay out per incident, per year, or over the pet’s lifetime. Ensure that the coverage limits are sufficient to cover potential high-cost treatments.

Consider policy details and networks

Reading the fine print is crucial when selecting a pet insurance policy. Pay attention to:

• Waiting Periods: Some policies have a waiting period before coverage begins. This can range from a few days to several weeks. Be aware of these periods, especially if your pet is prone to health issues.
  
  
• Exclusions: Carefully review what is not covered by the policy. Common exclusions include pre-existing conditions, elective procedures, and certain breed-specific conditions. Make sure you understand these exclusions to avoid unexpected out-of-pocket expenses.
  
  
• Claim Process: Understand how to file a claim and what documentation is required. A straightforward and efficient claim process can save you a lot of hassle during stressful times.
  
  
• Network of Veterinarians: Some insurance companies have a network of veterinarians, while others allow you to choose any licensed vet. Ensure that your preferred veterinarian is covered by the policy.

How to choose pet insurance with Caser

Pet insurance with Caser Expat Insurance comes in in the form of two policies, each offering different levels of coverage. Understanding these can help you choose the policy that best fits your needs:

1. WeCAN RC: This is our civil liability insurance that covers any possible damage that your dog may cause to third-parties. This way, you don’t need to assume compensation derived from those damages. It covers indemnities and guarantees legal defense, includes all breeds (including potentially dangerous dogs) and ages, and is valid throughout all regions of Spain. All of this from day one, as you’ll enjoy 0 waiting periods. 

Some examples of public liability insurance coverage is when your dog causes a traffic accident, trips someone with their leash, or causes an injury to another dog. 

For the most basic, mandatory coverage in Spain, this is our best-priced pet insurance. There are differences in pricing depending on if your dog is a dangerous breed or not. Consult the pricing differences on the WeCAN RC page. 

1. WeCAN Check: This is our veterinary insurance in Spain for cats and dogs that’s all-in-one: you’ll get 100% coverage for the cost of included treatments and special prices on over 100 other procedures. In this policy, there are also no exclusions for breed, age, or health. It also features no waiting period and all the civil liability protections that we mentioned above. 

Coverages include:

• Unlimited and free of charge veterinary assistance including consultations, check-ups, emergencies, and the annual rabies vaccination.
  
  
• Special discounts on fees for diagnostic tests, surgeries, hospitalizations, clinical analyses, other vaccinations (canine and feline), anesthesia, etc. 
  
  
• Civil liability coverage for third parties up to a total limit of €350,000, without distinction between breeds.
  
  
• Legal defense for any claim arising from damage caused by your pet.
  
  
• Telephone counseling service for information related to pets such as pet regulations in Spain, travel documents, lost pet registry, etc. 
  
  
• Optional: Reimbursement of cremation expenses after death. 
  
  

If you have more than one pet, we also offer discounts for multiple pets. This can significantly reduce your overall insurance costs. Discover the pricing per pet on the WeCAN Check page.

How to choose the right pet insurance in Spain involves careful consideration of your pet's specific needs, the types of coverage available, cost factors, policy details, and additional benefits or exclusions. By taking the time to compare Caser's policies, you can find an insurance plan that provides peace of mind and ensures your beloved pet receives the best possible care. Remember, the goal of our pet insurance is to enture your pet lives a happy, healthy life, all while getting your the right price and coverages.