Best Pet Insurance Companies In Boston, MA For December, 2024
Spot Pet Insurance is my choice for the best pet insurance company in Boston
We’ve saved shoppers an average of $350 per year on their pet insurance.
During 22 hours of research, our pet insurance experts reviewed quotes from 15 providers and found that Spot Pet Insurance had the best overall coverage. Lemonade Pet Insurance also scored highly for Boston’s most affordable pet insurance.
With average monthly rates for dog insurance in Boston around $41, both Spot and Lemonade Pet Insurance were significantly lower.
Throughout the guide, we’ll explore how different types of pets and their breeds or age play a role in determining monthly premiums for Boston pet owners.
Best Pet Insurance Companies In Boston, MA 2024
Compare The Best Pet Insurance Companies In Boston, MA
Overall Rating | Best For | Coverage Waiting Period | Average Annual Cost for Cats | Average Annual Cost for Dogs | Get A Quote | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Spot Pet Insurance |
|
Overall Coverage |
14 days for accidents and illnesses |
$18.62 |
$39.13 |
Instant Quote |
Lemonade |
|
Affordable Coverage |
2 days for accidents and 14 days for illnesses |
$15.31 |
$31.88 |
Instant Quote |
Lemonade |
|
Owners of young pets |
2 days for accidents and 14 days for illnesses |
$15.31 |
$31.88 |
Instant Quote |
ASPCA Pet Health Insurance |
|
New Pet Owners |
Immediately for Preventive Care and 14 Days for Illnesses and Accidents |
$16.76 |
$37.05 |
Instant Quote |
FIGO Pet Insurance |
|
Cat owners |
1 day for accidents and illnesses |
$12.69 |
$31.72 |
Instant Quote |
Pets Best Pet Health Insurance |
|
Owners of multiple pets |
3 days for accidents and 14 days for illnesses |
$14.47 |
$28.42 |
Instant Quote |
Our Methodology
To determine Boston's cheapest pet insurance rates, our team analyzed findings from several pet insurance companies throughout Massachusetts. We also utilized our team of insurance experts' combined twenty-five years of experience to evaluate each carrier.
It’s important to note that even though the rates listed in this guide are accurate, premiums shift daily and can fluctuate based on a pet’s age.
Quotes Analyzed
Years Of Industry Experience
Brands Reviewed
Research Hours
Pet Insurance Company Reviews
Best Overall Coverage
Key Statistics
Why We Like Them
⇅There are several quality pet insurance companies in Boston, but Spot Pet Insurance provides the most comprehensive coverage for pet owners. While their premiums are slightly higher than competitors, they make up for it with outstanding customer service and an extensive list of coverage options.
Most cat owners can expect monthly rates of around $18, and dog owners typically pay about $39 each month.
Another benefit of purchasing pet insurance through Spot is the ability to choose from a variety of maximum annual limit options. Currently, Spot offers the following coverage limits for policyholders:
- $2,500
- $4,000
- $5,000
- $7,000
- $10,000
- $15,000
- $20,000
- Unlimited
Spot also provides policyholders with a 24/7 pet telehealth helpline to provide advice on accidents and illnesses affecting their pet.
Benefits & Drawbacks
⇅- Coverage is available for pets of any age
- 24/7 telehealth helpline is available for policyholders
- Claims can be filed up to 270 days ✓
- Premiums are slightly higher for young pets
- Longer waiting period than other large pet insurance brands ✘
Best Affordable Coverage
Key Statistics
Why We Like Them
⇅When shopping for pet insurance, cost is one of the most important factors for many pet owners. After reviewing several companies located in Boston, Lemonade Pet Insurance was consistently the most affordable in many categories, with cat owners paying $15 a month and dog owners paying $31 monthly.
Along with cheap insurance rates, Lemonade offers several other advantages, such as a speedy claims process, multiple discount opportunities, and an easy-to-use mobile app for policy management.
Benefits & Drawbacks
⇅- Many customers complete the claims process within minutes
- Interactive mobile app
- Customizable coverage options
- Affordable premium rates ✓
- Coverage is limited to 38 states
- Policyholders are limited to policy adjustments during renewal only
- Limited coverage options for older pets ✘
Cheapest Rates For Young Pets
Key Statistics
Why We Like Them
⇅A lot of excitement comes with getting a kitten or puppy. However, in the midst of the cuddles, training, and treats, it’s also important to consider purchasing a health insurance policy for the new member of the family. For pet owners in Boston, Lemonade Pet Insurance is the best provider for young pets.
The company ranked as the most affordable option for pet owners with kittens and puppies, offering discounts to lower premiums even further. Along with the inexpensive rates, Lemonade Pet Insurance has one of the shortest waiting periods for accident coverage, with benefits available after only two days.
A typical cat insurance policy costs around $15 monthly, and a dog insurance plan costs about $31.
Benefits & Drawbacks
⇅- Affordable coverage for kittens and puppies
- Policyholders can file a claim within seconds via the company’s mobile app
- 2-day waiting period for accident coverage ✓
- Limited hours for pet telehealth line
- Vet exam fees are only covered via an insurance add-on/rider
- Policy adjustments can only be made during the renewal process ✘
Cheapest Rates For New Pet Owners
Key Statistics
Why We Like Them
⇅Even as a new pet owner, you’re probably familiar with ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.) While the organization dedicated most of its time to preventing animal cruelty, they also offer pet insurance coverage for cats, dogs, and horses in some states.
One of the most significant advantages ASPCA provides new pet owners is coverage for common hereditary or congenital conditions. Many pet insurance companies won’t assist with these illnesses. However, ASPCA is willing to help pet owners and cover these issues if they appear after the pet is on an active policy.
ASPCA also offers competitive rates, with cat owners paying $16.76 monthly and dog owners paying $37.05.
Benefits & Drawbacks
⇅- Policyholders have access to a 24/7 pet telehealth line
- Veterinarian office visits are covered for illnesses and accidents
- Insures elderly pets and has no upper age limit for enrollment
- Provides coverage for additional services like stem cell therapy and microchipping ✓
- Website is challenging to navigate
- Claims processing can take up to 30 days
- Policies have a limited number of deductible options ✘
Cheapest Rates For Cat Owners
Key Statistics
Why We Like Them
⇅For cat owners, there is hardly a better option for pet insurance in Boston than FIGO Pet Insurance. The company prides itself on being part of the pet community, with nearly 90% of its staff being pet owners. Along with a deep love of animals, the insurance provider is one of the most affordable for Boston cat owners, with policies averaging $12.69 monthly.
FIGO also couples a free 24/7 vet telehealth service with an industry-leading one-day waiting period for accidents to provide pet owners with the ultimate piece of mind.
Benefits & Drawbacks
⇅- Provides coverage for senior pets and has no age enrollment limit
- Offers 24/7 vet telehealth helpline services
- Accidents are covered after a one-day waiting period ✓
- Exam fees are only covered through the purchase of an insurance rider
- Doesn’t offer an accident-only policy
- Lack of coverage for a hereditary condition if a pet is added to a policy after their 2nd birthday ✘
Cheapest Rates For Multiple Pets
Key Statistics
Why We Like Them
⇅Even though Pets Best Pet Health Insurance has a slower claims process than some of its competitors, it makes up for it in coverage options and customer support. Along with the ability to insure pets as young as seven weeks old, Pets Best also assists animals needing wheelchairs or other prosthetic devices.
Pets Best also has a dedicated customer service team that values each policyholder and strives to create a lasting relationship. Policyholders have access to a 24/7 telehealth helpline with veterinarian experts to diagnose and provide guidance on a pet’s illness or injury.
The company also has competitive rates, with cat coverage costing $14.47 monthly and dog insurance costing $28.42.
Benefits & Drawbacks
⇅- Offers coverage for wheelchairs and other prosthetic devices
- Direct Vet payment is available for providers accepting the service
- Various discounts are available for owners with multiple pets
- 24/7 pet telehealth helpline available for policyholders ✓
- Alternative therapies are not covered under any policies
- Claims processing is slower than most competitors
- Policies can’t be altered until the time of renewal ✘
Average Cost Of Pet Insurance In Boston, MA
While many factors affect the overall cost of pet insurance in Boston, most cat owners can expect to pay about $21.21 for coverage, and dog owners pay around $34.87.
The following tables will provide additional insight into some criteria affecting monthly premiums.
Average Cost In Boston — By Cat Breed
Cat Breed | Average Monthly Cost |
Persian | $25.31 |
Ragdoll | $19.36 |
Maine Coon Cat | $28.38 |
Exotic Shorthair | $26.24 |
Average Cost In Boston — By Dog Breed
Dog Breed | Average Monthly Cost |
Golden Retriever | $59.17 |
German Shepherd | $49.92 |
Labrador Retriever | $59.02 |
French Bulldog | $81.29 |
Average Cost In Boston — Accidental-Only Coverage
Insurance Provider | Average Monthly Cost for Accident-Only Coverage |
Pets Best | $22.02 |
Spot Pet Health Insurance | $31.14 |
ASPCA Pet Health Insurance | $33.78 |
Embrace Pet Insurance | $37.29 |
AKC Pet Insurance | $38.75 |
Average Cost In Boston — Comprehensive Coverage
Insurance Provider | Average Monthly Cost for Comprehensive Coverage |
Spot Pet Insurance | $61.47 |
ASPCA Pet Health Insurance | $44.14 |
Pets Best | $45.41 |
AKC Pet Insurance | $58.18 |
Embrace Pet Insurance | $61.35 |
How To Find The Best Pet Insurance Company For You
For many pet owners, purchasing pet insurance is a new experience full of mystery and challenges. However, buying a pet health insurance policy shouldn’t be scary. In fact, you can ensure you’re selecting the best coverage for your furry friend in several ways.
For example, before comparing insurance quotes, you should determine what type of coverage you want for your pet. There are typically two standard types of coverage — comprehensive and accident-only. Each policy type has its advantages and could include various coverage options depending on which provider you choose.
Once you decide on the type of coverage you want, then it’s time to consider your coverage limit and deductible. Both options will vary from company to company, so picking a provider that aligns with your preferences is important.
Lastly, after you have the list of providers that offer the deductible and coverage type you’re looking for, you should request a quote and compare rates.
Largest Pet Insurance Companies In The United States
Company Name | Estimated Market Share Percentage |
Trupanion | 30% |
Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company | 19% |
Embrace Pet Insurance | 9% |
Fetch by the Dodo | 8% |
Pets Best Insurance | 2.4% |
Hartville Group Inc. | 1.4% |
MetLife Pet Insurance | 1.4% |
Petsecure | 1.3% |
Healthy Paws Pet Insurance | .73% |
Pumpkin Pet Insurance | .48% |
How To Buy Pet Insurance Online In Boston
Whether you’re getting coverage for a new pet or purchasing an insurance policy for your current furry family member, there are several steps you’ll want to follow to ensure a pleasant shopping experience.
The following outline will provide a step-by-step guide for what to do throughout the pet insurance purchasing process:
- Step 1: Gather all important information ahead of time (EX: pet type, breed, age, medical history, and any documentation you have on the pet’s lineage)
- Step 2: Identify the amount of coverage and deductible you want for your pet
- Step 3: Compare at least three pet insurance quotes from different carriers
- Step 4: Purchase your policy and reach out to your vet to let them know about your new coverage
Factors That Impact Cost Of Your Pet Insurance Policy In Boston
Similar to other types of insurance, a pet insurance policy’s cost depends on several factors. For Boston pet owners, the main elements that affect monthly premiums include the following:
- Location
- Age
- Animal Type
- Breed
- Insurance Type
Let’s look at how each factor plays a role in determining coverage cost.
Location
While there tends to be more rate disparity between different cities throughout Massachusetts, pet owners living in different Boston zip codes may notice a slightly higher monthly premium. Most insurance companies will utilize previous data on claims filed in a region to determine if a zone is more likely to produce a pet insurance claim.
Age
Age is one of the biggest factors pet insurance providers utilize to set monthly rates. The younger an animal is, the less likely they are to develop illnesses or need to visit the vet. With a lower-risk profile, these young pets often receive more affordable rates. Then, as a pet ages and starts to experience more health issues, its coverage will likely increase at each renewal.
Animal Type
Different animals are more costly to insure. For example, the monthly premium for dog insurance tends to be 2-3x more expensive than cat insurance. The main reason for the significant cost increase is risk potential. Since dogs are outside more and interact with other animals more frequently, there is a greater chance for an accident or illness to occur.
Breed
Even though most breeds are considered healthy, some are prone to different conditions and illnesses. For example, dogs like cocker spaniels are more likely to develop diabetes within their lifetimes than other breeds. If you have a dog or cat breed with a higher chance of developing a disease, you could see an increase in your monthly premium.
Insurance Type
The last factor that impacts overall pet insurance cost is the type of coverage you select. Different policies will have specific deductibles and coverages. The more protection you include in a plan or, the lower the deductible, the higher your annual cost will be for the pet health insurance policy.
Massachusetts Pet Insurance Laws To Know
While there aren’t any Massachusetts laws enforcing a pet owner to carry pet insurance, the state does outline the main components of a pet health insurance policy.
The Massachusetts Division of Insurance has the following to say about pet health insurance:
“A pet health insurance policy reimburses the pet owner for specified veterinary care. As with your health insurance policy, these policies typically itemize covered treatments, deductibles (the amount you’re responsible to pay) and lifetime or per illness maximums. The cost of the policy may vary based on the amount and type of coverage as well as the breed or species. Estimate the health costs for your animal’s expected life and take into consideration how much you could afford for emergency treatment or a long illness.”
In The News
- New laws will allow dogs to join their owners at certain patios and beer gardens throughout Boston
- State officials introduced a new bill to make it harder for people convicted of animal abuse to own, adopt, or foster pets
Information About Boston
Boston is the capital of Massachusetts and the largest city in the state. Throughout history, the region has played a historic role in the development of the United States, with several important sites of the Revolutionary War taking part in the city.
Today, Boston has several world-class educational institutions and boasts an iconic arts scene. Many tourists can enjoy the city’s rich culture and picturesque waterfront before watching one of the local professional sports teams take the field or court.
Pet Insurance Discounts In Boston
As you shop and compare pet health insurance policies, you’ll notice each provider offers additional discounts to help make monthly premiums more affordable. The following is a list of discounts you’ll want to explore before purchasing a policy:
- Employer-sponsored discounts
- Multi-pet discount
- Employee union discounts
- Wholesale and special interest clubs discounts
- Multi-policy discount
- Active and retired military discounts
- Senior discounts
- Online policy discounts
- Animal care employee discounts
- Special service animal discounts
FAQs
Do all vets take pet insurance in Boston?
Generally, every vet will accept pet insurance, but it’s important to speak with your provider to ensure they do. Some pet insurance companies will also offer a Vet Direct Pay option, directly paying the veterinarian. However, not all clinics will accept this model.
What is the cost of pet insurance in Boston?
The amount you pay for pet insurance in Boston will depend on several factors, including the type of pet you have and their breed, age, and medical history. On average, cat insurance in Boston is around $16.21, and dog insurance is $34.87.
Am I required to have pet insurance in Boston?
Boston pet owners are not required to purchase pet health insurance. However, having the coverage is recommended as it can save pet owners thousands of dollars in medical expenses.
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