Does Pet Insurance Cover ACL Surgery? For pet owners, their animals are more than just furry friends; they are also cherished members of our families.

So, when they suffer from serious injuries like a torn ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament), it can be an emotionally and financially stressful experience.

ACL injuries in dogs are mainly among the most common orthopedic problems that require surgery, which can cost thousands of dollars. Naturally, many pet owners begin to wonder: does pet insurance cover ACL surgery?

Understanding whether your pet insurance policy covers ACL surgery is vital in preparing for the unexpected.

Furthermore, not all insurance plans are created equal, and coverage can vary widely depending on the provider, the type of plan, the timing of enrollment, and the pet’s medical history.

ACL Injuries in Pets

Now, the ACL injuries in dogs are similar to ACL tears in humans. These injuries occur during activities that involve sudden stops, jumps, or turns, which can strain the ligaments in the knee joint. Cats can also suffer from ligament injuries, although they’re less common.

What’s more, a torn ACL in pets usually requires surgical intervention such as Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy or lateral suture surgery. Without surgery, the pet may suffer from chronic pain, lameness, and long-term mobility issues.

These procedures, while often successful, can be costly, ranging from $1,500 to over $5,000 per knee. In this scenario, pet insurance can really be a financial lifesaver, if it even covers the procedure.

Does Pet Insurance Cover ACL Surgery?

Many comprehensive pet insurance plans do cover ACL surgery, but several important conditions and limitations do apply.

Pet insurance typically comes in three forms: accident-only, accident and illness, and wellness plans. Accident and illness plans are the options that are most likely to cover ACL surgery, as it’s considered a medical condition arising from injury or disease.

However, most pet insurance policies have a strict waiting period after enrollment, especially for orthopedic conditions like ACL injuries. If your pet develops the issue during the waiting period, it is considered a pre-existing condition and won’t be covered.

Here are the key factors that determine the coverage you get:

• Type of Plan: Only accident and illness plans are likely to cover surgery. Accident-only plans might cover traumatic ligament tears but not degenerative ones.
• Waiting Periods: Some companies have specific waiting periods for ligament injuries that’s sometimes up to 6-12 months.
• Pre-existing Conditions: If your pet had signs of knee problems before the coverage began, surgery will likely not be covered.
• Annual or Per-Condition Limits: Even if ACL surgery is covered, reimbursement may be capped.

How To Choose The Right Pet Insurance For ACL Coverage

Before you face an urgent emergency, it’s important to know all the important factors in choosing a pet insurance policy that fits your needs. Selecting the right plan can make the difference between getting the surgery your pet needs or having to make difficult financial decisions.

Firstly, you start by thoroughly reading the policy details, especially the fine print regarding orthopedic conditions. Also, you look for providers that offer clear terms around ligament injuries and confirm whether bilateral conditions (injuries on both knees) are covered.

When evaluating a pet insurance plan for ACL coverage, here are something you must consider:

• Ensure that both legs are covered, as ACL tears commonly occur on both sides.
• Some plans require an orthopedic exam within a certain timeframe to activate full coverage.
• Look for high enough annual coverage caps to accommodate the potential cost of surgery.
• Most insurers offer 70%, 80%, or 90% reimbursement after deductibles.
• Ask your vet for insurer recommendations and check real user reviews.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is ACL Surgery Considered An Emergency Under Pet Insurance?

Not usually. ACL injuries are typically classified as non-emergency conditions unless accompanied by other urgent issues. However, if your plan includes accident and illness coverage, the surgery may still be reimbursed.

Can I Get Pet Insurance After My Dog Has Torn An ACL?

Yes, you can. However, it is only if the condition will be considered pre-existing. That means the injury and any future complications or surgeries related to it, will not be covered by the new policy.

Are There Specific Insurance Companies Known For Covering ACL Surgeries?

Yes, companies like Healthy Paws, Trupanion, and Embrace are known for offering comprehensive accident and illness plans that include ACL surgery. What’s more, they do so provided the injury is not pre-existing and policy terms are met.