Tips to make the most of your pet insurance

Got pet insurance? Choice. But if it’s just sitting there, unused, you could be missing out on some great value. Having cover may be more than just for those “uh-oh” moments when your dog swallows a sock or your cat starts limping, subject to any terms and conditions per your policy document. It may also be about keeping your pets feeling tip-top all year round.

Why regular vet visits can be key to prevention

A trip to the vet might not be your pet’s favourite outing (or yours, let’s be honest), but those check-ups may be worth the effort. Early detection can save you a lot of heartache (and a hefty bill) down the track.

Why it matters:

• Health issues like dental disease, skin allergies, or arthritis can creep in quietly
• Catching them early often means easier, and may mean cheaper treatment
• Most New Zealand pet insurance policies cover vet consults and diagnostics, up to a certain amount specified in the policy document. 

Don’t wait for something to go wrong. If your plan covers regular vet visits, consider using it. Check out our guide to types of pet insurance to see what’s included.

Stay on top of vaccinations and routine treatments

Vaccinations, topical flea treatments, worm pills - they aren’t glamorous, but they can be essential. Staying on top of routine care helps keep your pet healthy and stops bigger problems before they start.

Routine care can include (up to a certain amount):

• Annual vaccinations 
• Flea and worm treatments
• Dental cleanings
• Desexing 

Some insurance plans offer cover for these things too (often called wellness or routine care add-ons), so it’s worth checking what you’re paying for.

Staying up to date helps protect other animals, too, especially in kennels where bugs can spread fast. Vets still see preventable diseases like parvo in dogs and panleukopenia in cats across NZ.

Let your vet know you’re insured

It might feel like no big deal, but telling your vet you’ve got dog insurance or cat insurance can actually make a difference.

Why it helps:

• Some clinics can handle the paperwork for you – they might be able to submit claims directly, saving you time and hassle.  
• Your vet may explore more options – knowing you're covered could open the door to extra diagnostics or treatments.
• Peace of mind for you – you can focus on your pet’s recovery instead of worrying about the eligible vet bill.  

Not sure where to go? Use the NZVA vet finder to find a local clinic.

Understand what your policy covers

All pet insurance policies are a bit different, and the last thing you want is a nasty surprise when you’re trying to make a claim.

Check these key things:

• Accidents & injuries - Most standard plans
• Illnesses - Often included
• Routine care (vax, flea, worm) - Check add-ons
• Dental treatment - Varies between providers
• Pre-existing conditions - Usually not covered

Take five minutes to read over your policy (yep, even the fine print). If you have any questions, give your provider a ring and ask.

Using your insurance for long-term well-being

 Insurance may not just be for when things go pear-shaped; it’s may also be a way to support your pet’s health for the long haul.

Think about using your policy to:

• Book annual health checks
• Keep chronic conditions like arthritis under control
• Stay on top of dental care
• Act quickly when small issues pop up

Pets don’t always tell us when something’s wrong. Insurance may give you the freedom to act early, without stressing about the bill, depending on your cover and the policy terms and conditions. The real value is knowing you’ve got your pet’s back, which may not be through insurance. 

Want to know what kind of cover suits your pet best? Head over to our pet insurance types guide for a simple breakdown. Once you’re ready, see if SPCA Pet Insurance may be something worth considering to protect your cat or dog.