Does pet insurance cover hip dysplasia? Firstly, Hip dysplasia is a common orthopedic condition in pets, especially in larger dog breeds such as German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, and Labrador Retrievers.
It is also a genetic condition that causes the hip joint to form improperly, which results in joint instability, pain, and over time, arthritis.
What’s more, the severity can range from mild discomfort to complete lameness, which then requires intensive treatments like physical therapy, medications, or surgery.
Unfortunately, treating hip dysplasia can be very costly, making pet owners wonder whether pet insurance can help cover the bills.
The good news is that many pet insurance plans do cover hip dysplasia, but the extent of coverage depends on several factors, such as the type of plan you choose, your pet’s age at enrollment, and whether the condition is considered pre-existing.
How Pet Insurance Covers Hip Dysplasia
When dealing with potentially expensive conditions like hip dysplasia, the terms and coverage of your pet insurance policy are crucial.
Most comprehensive pet insurance plans (usually accident & illness plans) include coverage for hereditary and congenital conditions, which means hip dysplasia can be covered, but only under certain conditions.
Coverage usually includes the following if hip dysplasia is eligible:
- Diagnostic exams and imaging (X-rays, MRIs)
- Joint supplements
- Physical therapy or rehabilitation
- Pain medications and anti-inflammatory drugs
- Corrective surgery, including Total Hip Replacement (THR)
- Post-operative care and follow-ups
Common Policy Exclusions Around Hip Dysplasia
Going forward, pet owners need to be promptly aware of common policy exclusions and requirements around the coverage. They include:
- Waiting periods: Some insurers have specific waiting periods (e.g., 6–12 months) for orthopedic conditions.
- Pre-existing conditions: If your pet shows signs of hip dysplasia before the insurance policy takes effect, it will likely not be covered.
- Age limits: Some insurers won’t cover hip dysplasia if your pet is enrolled after a certain age.
- Bilateral condition clauses: If one hip shows signs of dysplasia before enrollment, the other hip may also be excluded.
Best Pet Insurance Plans For Hip Dysplasia Coverage
Not all pet insurance providers offer equal coverage for hip dysplasia, so selecting the right company is essential if your breed is prone to orthopedic conditions.
The best policies will cover hereditary and congenital conditions without hidden exclusions for hips or joints, as long as your pet meets the eligibility requirements.
Some of the top-rated pet insurers that typically cover hip dysplasia include:
- ASPCA Pet Insurance: Covers hereditary conditions if the policy is active before symptoms appear.
- Embrace: This provider is known for their orthopedic coverage and wellness add-ons. Also, getting a policy requires an orthopedic exam and a 6-month waiting period (which can be waived).
- Healthy Paws: Offers comprehensive coverage, including surgeries and rehabilitation, with no caps. Requires pets to be enrolled before age 6 for full hip dysplasia coverage.
- Figo: Covers hip dysplasia without caps on conditions but may require additional orthopedic evaluations.
- Trupanion: Covers hereditary conditions like hip dysplasia and offers direct vet payment. They also offer a 30-day waiting period for orthopedic issues.
Factors To Consider When Choosing A Plan
Before you settle for an insurance plan that covers this expensive and serious health condition, here are some factors you must compare:
- Waiting periods
- Deductibles and reimbursement rates
- Annual or lifetime payout limits
- Orthopedic exclusions or bilateral condition rules
Costs Of Treating Hip Dysplasia Without Insurance
Treating hip dysplasia can be expensive, especially in severe cases requiring surgery or long-term therapy. Knowing the potential costs will help you understand the financial protection that insurance offers.
Some of the common costs include:
- X-rays and diagnostics: $200 – $500 and above
- Pain management & medication: $30 – $100/month
- Physical therapy: $100 – $200/session (multiple sessions may be required)
- Hip replacement surgery: $3,500 – $7,000 per hip
- Post-surgery rehabilitation and monitoring: $500 – $1,000+
In total, owners are more likely to spend roughly $5,000 to $10,000 or more managing hip dysplasia over a pet’s lifetime. This is why it is important you get a good insurance plan from a reliable provider.
Preventing Hip Dysplasia and Supporting Your Pet
While genetics play a big role in hip dysplasia, there are still ways to support your pet’s joint health and potentially reduce the severity of symptoms.
Pet insurance won’t typically cover preventive efforts, but taking these steps early can reduce long-term health issues and costs. These helpful measures include:
- Keeping your pet at a healthy weight to reduce joint stress
- Regular veterinary checkups for early diagnosis and management
- Avoiding intense physical activity during early growth stages (for puppies)
- Providing orthopedic beds and slip-proof flooring
- Offering vet-recommended joint supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin
Some insurers offer wellness plan add-ons that may help cover joint supplements or preventive vet visits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hip Dysplasia Covered By All Pet Insurance Plans?
No. Only comprehensive accident & illness plans typically cover hip dysplasia, and even then, certain limitations or waiting periods may apply.
What If My Pet Was Diagnosed With Hip Dysplasia Before I Got Insurance?
If the condition was diagnosed before enrollment, or symptoms were present, it will be considered a pre-existing condition and won’t be covered by most plans.
Are Both Hips Covered If Only One Shows Symptoms?
Not always. Some insurers apply a bilateral condition exclusion, which may exclude both hips if one shows pre-existing symptoms. This is why you must always check for this clause in your policy.