Best Pet Insurance Companies in Houston, TX

After conducting extensive research, I believe that Spot offers the best pet insurance in Houston.

min read
Updated: 08 May 2024
Written by
Bob Phillips
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Houston, like the rest of South Texas, holds a special place in the hearts of pet owners. Its beautiful beaches, parks that welcome dogs, and countless pet-friendly spots make it a haven for both locals and visitors with furry companions.

Finding the right pet insurance company in Houston is crucial for taking care of your beloved pet, and this guide is here to help you with that task. We have conducted extensive research on different providers and narrowed down the options to present you with our top choice: Spot, the leading pet insurance provider in Houston.

Our main goal is to ensure that you have the right coverage at an affordable price, so your cherished pet can receive the necessary medical care without causing a financial burden.

Continue reading to discover the best of the best and find a pet insurance provider in Houston that perfectly suits your family’s specific needs.

Best Pet Insurance Companies in Houston, TX 2024

Best Pet Insurance Companies in Houston 2024

Compare the Best Pet Insurance Companies in Houston, TX

Overall Rating Best For Waiting Period Use Any Vet Reimbursement Option Get A Quote
Lemonade
4.8

Affordability

14 days

Yes

50% to 90%

Instant Quote
Prudent Pet
4.5

Basic Coverage

14 days

Yes

70% to 90%

Instant Quote
ASPCA
4.7

Experience

14 days

Yes

70% to 90%

Instant Quote
Healthy Paws
4.6

Unlimited Coverage

15 days

Yes

50% to 90%

Instant Quote
Trupanion
4.4

Flexible Deductible

5 days

Yes

90%

Instant Quote
Spot
4.9

Overall

2 days

Yes

70% to 100%

Instant Quote
Figo
4.5

Flexible Reimbursement

14 days

Yes

70% to 100%

Instant Quote
Scroll to see comparisons

Pet Insurance Company Reviews


Best Overall

Overall Rating
4.9

Key Statistics

9/10 Affordability
9/10 Customer Reviews
10/10 Claims
10/10 Coverage level

Why We Like Them

In the category of Best Overall, Spot clearly emerges as the top pick, thanks to its simplicity, affordability, and comprehensive coverage.

When compared to its competitors, Spot stands out for its remarkable flexibility. It boasts a short 2-day waiting period, offers unlimited annual coverage, and imposes no restrictions on vets or upper age limits for insured pets. While Spot may not have the lowest rates available, the value it provides for the money spent is truly exceptional.

What truly distinguishes Spot is its 30-day money-back guarantee, as long as no claims have been approved or paid. During this period, you can take advantage of Spot’s round-the-clock veterinary advice hotline, which you can access from the very first day of coverage.

Spot covers all the crucial areas you’d expect from a pet insurance company, including accidents, illnesses, and hereditary or congenital conditions. You have the option to choose between accident-only policies or policies that cover both accidents and illnesses.

Spot understands the importance of finding a plan that fits your budget while providing the necessary protection for your furry friend. Furthermore, you won’t have to worry about finding a vet within a specific network, allowing you to stick with the veterinarian you trust and feel most comfortable with.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Unrestricted by maximum age limits
  • Assured with a 30-day money-back guarantee
  • No constraints on veterinary providers of choice
Drawbacks
  • Lacks coverage for preventive care
  • Requires a 14-day waiting period before coverage commences

Best for Affordability

Overall Rating
4.8

Key Statistics

10/10 Affordability
9/10 Customer Reviews
10/10 Claims
8/10 Coverage level

Why We Like Them

In the affordability category, Lemonade takes the lead with coverage starting at just $10. What makes Lemonade stand out is its strong commitment to social consciousness. It goes the extra mile by donating excess earnings to causes that are approved by its policyholders.

Lemonade Pet Insurance follows in the footsteps of its sister services, Lemonade Home Insurance and Lemonade Renters Insurance. It offers pet insurance that is not only affordable but also comprehensive. The company even provides discounts to customers who bundle their pet policies with renter’s or homeowner’s coverage.

What sets Lemonade apart from many other pet insurance policies is its simplicity. You can easily understand and review the policies directly on the company’s website.

A notable advantage of Lemonade is its user-friendly Insurance app. With this app, policyholders can quickly submit claims and receive prompt reimbursement directly into their bank accounts. The app also offers the convenience of live chats with medical experts for policyholders who seek additional guidance.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Incorporates optional preventive coverage
  • Contributes unpaid claims to nonprofit organizations
Drawbacks
  • Relatively fresh in the market
  • Does not provide coverage for pre-existing conditions

Best for Experience

Overall Rating
4.7

Key Statistics

9/10 Affordability
7/10 Customer Reviews
9/10 Claims
9/10 Coverage level

Why We Like Them

ASPCA’s pet insurance is provided through C&F Insurance Agency, an established company since 1997. The insurance policies are backed by the United States Fire Insurance Company, which has an impressive A.M. Best rating of A (Excellent) for its financial strength and claims-paying abilities.

ASPCA Pet Insurance offers a range of plans that cover accidents and illnesses or solely accidents.

The standout plan from the organization is Complete Coverage®, which offers annual benefit caps starting from $5,000 and going up to unlimited. It doesn’t impose any per-condition caps or special limits for eligible congenital and hereditary conditions.

ASPCA also provides additional options like Accident-Only coverage and Preventative Care Coverage, available for an extra cost.

Just like most pet insurers, ASPCA’s plans don’t cover pre-existing conditions that show symptoms or occur before the policy’s effective date or during the waiting period.

However, if your pet remains symptom-free, receives no treatment, and fully recovers for a continuous period of 180 days, the condition will no longer be considered pre-existing, except for knee and ligament conditions. If a knee or ligament condition arises before the coverage starts or during the waiting period, any future claims related to those conditions will not be covered.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Incorporates coverage for microchipping
  • Offers a discount for multiple pets
  • Provides a 30-day money-back guarantee
Drawbacks
  • Does not provide annual coverage exceeding $10,000
  • Rates are higher in comparison to many competitors
  • Requires an additional fee for monthly payments rather than annual payments

Best for Unlimited Coverage

Overall Rating
4.6

Key Statistics

9/10 Affordability
8/10 Customer Reviews
10/10 Claims
8/10 Coverage level

Why We Like Them

Healthy Paws stands out as a beacon of simplicity in the realm of pet insurance. They offer a single, comprehensive plan that covers accidents and illnesses, without the complexity of multiple options. This streamlined approach ensures that any new accidents or conditions that arise while your pet is covered by Healthy Paws insurance will be taken care of.

What truly sets Healthy Paws apart from the pack is its commitment to unlimited payouts. Unlike many other providers, there are no limits imposed on specific incidents, yearly claims, or even over your pet’s lifetime. You can have peace of mind knowing that your furry friend will receive the necessary care without financial constraints.

But Healthy Paws doesn’t stop at just protecting your own pet’s well-being. They also extend their compassion to homeless animals through their foundation. By covering the medical expenses of these vulnerable pets, Healthy Paws helps them on their path to recovery and finding loving forever homes. In addition, they have made significant contributions to over 300 nonprofit pet organizations, demonstrating their dedication to making a positive impact.

It’s important to note that Healthy Paws does not include routine veterinary care in their pet insurance coverage. Unlike some competitors, they do not offer a separate wellness plan for services like exams, vaccinations, or routine blood work. However, their focus on accidents and illnesses ensures that the most critical health concerns are taken care of.

When considering Healthy Paws, keep in mind that registration must occur before your pet’s 14th birthday, as there is an age threshold like with many other providers. Additionally, the age of your pet will play a role in determining the level of reimbursement you receive, so it’s worth considering when making your decision.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Provides unlimited maximum payouts
  • Features an easy-to-use mobile app for claim submissions
  • Underwritten by Chubb, a highly-rated insurance company (A+ rated)
Drawbacks
  • Does not include wellness plans
  • Requires a $25 fee for new customers
  • Does not provide multi-pet discounts

Best for Basic Coverage

Overall Rating
4.5

Key Statistics

8/10 Affordability
8/10 Customer Reviews
9/10 Claims
9/10 Coverage level

Why We Like Them

When it comes to finding the right insurance policy for your older pet, the fine print can make things complicated. But fear not, Prudent Pet simplifies the process by offering coverage for pets of all ages and breeds, with no restrictions on in-network providers. What’s more, they provide unlimited annual payouts.

Prudent Pet is particularly beneficial for owners of older pets or breeds prone to hereditary or congenital conditions.

While Prudent Pet welcomes pets of any age, it’s important to consider that your pet’s age will impact your monthly premium. Older pets may have a slightly higher risk of injuries or illnesses, which can result in slightly higher insurance costs. However, Prudent Pet recognizes the significance of providing coverage for your furry friend, especially as they age.

On top of their pet-friendly approach, Prudent Pet is also military-friendly. They offer additional discounts and benefits to active-duty service members, retirees, and veterans.

With Prudent Pet, navigating the world of pet insurance becomes easy, ensuring that your older pet receives the necessary coverage and granting you peace of mind.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • No age limits or breed restrictions imposed
  • Provides compensation for rewards in case your pet goes missing
  • Guarantees a 30-day money-back policy
Drawbacks
  • Premiums exceed the average pricing
  • Does not offer a mobile app

Best for Flexible Reimbursement

Overall Rating
4.5

Key Statistics

8/10 Affordability
8/10 Customer Reviews
9/10 Claims
8/10 Coverage level

Why We Like Them

Figo stands out for its exceptional coverage at an affordable price. Their standard plan includes items that are typically expensive add-ons in other high-level plans.

What makes Figo truly unique is its exclusive 100% reimbursement option, available with their highest premium rate.

You also have the choice of unlimited coverage with Figo, and they offer three additional “PowerUps” for your plan: Wellness, Veterinary Exam Fee Coverage, or the Extra Care Pack.

In comparison to other companies, Figo provides three plan levels that offer substantial coverage for the price.

Even Figo’s most affordable plan covers a wide range of incidents, such as accidents, illnesses, prescriptions, hip dysplasia, alternative treatments, prosthetics, mobility devices, and treatment for behavioral problems.

The best part is that Figo does not have exclusions for hereditary or congenital conditions, nor for pre-existing conditions that have been fully cured for at least 12 months.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Features a 100% reimbursement option
  • Offers unlimited annual coverage
  • No upper age limit imposed on pets
Drawbacks
  • Lacks an accident-only plan option
  • Premiums are higher when compared to many other carriers

Best for Flexible Deductible

Overall Rating
4.4

Key Statistics

8/10 Affordability
8/10 Customer Reviews
8/10 Claims
9/10 Coverage level

Why We Like Them

Trupanion brings a refreshing and distinctive approach to pet insurance. Unlike most insurers, they offer per-condition deductibles instead of the usual annual deductible. Once you’ve met the deductible for a specific condition, Trupanion ensures that your pet’s treatments for that condition will be covered for their entire life.

But that’s not where Trupanion’s uniqueness ends. They go above and beyond with consumer-friendly features that set them apart from the competition. Worried about costly treatments and unsure if they’ll be covered? No need to fret! Trupanion provides round-the-clock availability for preapproval, giving you the confidence to say yes to the care your beloved furry friend needs.

Here’s another fantastic perk: Trupanion doesn’t automatically increase your pet’s premium just because they’ve reached another birthday. Instead, they periodically adjust premiums to accurately reflect the actual cost of veterinary care for pets like yours in Houston.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Premiums maintain stability as your pet ages
  • Per-condition deductibles can lead to cost savings for chronic illnesses
  • All pets are granted unlimited annual and lifetime coverage
Drawbacks
  • Exam fees are not encompassed within the coverage
  • Additional coverage for rehabilitation necessitates an extra cost

How to Find the Best Pet Insurance Company for You

When it comes to buying pet insurance, it’s similar to getting health insurance for yourself and your family. Let’s break it down into six easy steps:

  1. Start by researching insurance providers. There are plenty of options available, including dedicated pet insurers and well-known national insurers offering different types of coverage. Fortunately, we’ve already done the legwork and compiled a list of the best pet insurance companies, making your research a breeze. Visit their websites, check out their coverage and rates, and read reviews from other pet owners.
  2. Get multiple quotes. Pet insurance prices can vary based on factors like breed, age, and the insurer itself. Some companies charge significantly more compared to their competitors for insuring pets of the same breed and age. By obtaining quotes from multiple insurers, you can establish a price range that fits your budget.
  3. Compare coverage benefits. Once you’ve narrowed down your list of potential insurers, it’s time to compare the coverage they offer. Pay attention to the details, as certain companies may provide more extensive coverage in specific areas. Depending on your pet’s needs, these differences could be vital in your decision-making process. For example, some insurers cover prescription food, alternative therapies, dental issues, or even loss or theft of your pet.
  4. Choose your deductible. Your deductible is the amount you must pay before the insurance company starts reimbursing you. Select a deductible that you can comfortably afford. If it’s too high, accessing necessary care for your pet might become challenging, but if it’s too low, your premium may become unmanageable. Most insurers offer annual deductibles ranging from $100 to $1,000. Remember, if you don’t reach your annual deductible by the year’s end, your insurer won’t reimburse any medical expenses for your pet during that period.
  5. Determine the reimbursement rate and limit. Reimbursement refers to the percentage of expenses the insurer will repay after you file a claim. Choose the reimbursement percentage that suits your needs, usually ranging from 50% to 90% (with some insurers offering 100%). Additionally, consider the reimbursement limit, which is the maximum amount the insurance company will pay annually. This limit can range from $2,000 to unlimited coverage. Keep in mind that lower limits result in more affordable premiums.
  6. Enroll with your chosen provider. The good news is that most pet insurers allow you to enroll online. Since you’ve already received a quote from the carrier, much of your information will already be on file. You’ll simply need to decide on payment frequency and provide your payment details. It’s worth noting that some providers may offer a small discount if you choose to pay annually instead of monthly.

Average Cost of Pet Insurance in Houston, Texas

The cost of pet insurance depends on factors like your pet’s age, breed, the type of plan you choose, reimbursement rate, and deductible.

Where you live in the U.S. also plays a big role in determining the price. The expenses for pet care in a certain area greatly affect the rates offered by insurance companies. For example, if you’re in San Francisco or New York City, you can expect much higher pet insurance premiums compared to someone in Houston or Houston.

Here are the average monthly premiums for pet insurance in South Texas:

Species/Breed Average Monthly Premium
French bulldog $84.27
German shepherd $56.31
Golden retriever $53.74
Mixed-breed dog $36.97
American shorthair cat $24.61
Mixed-breed cat $23.46

*Sample quotes are based on Lemonade accident-and-illness plans for 4-year-old male pets using a $5,000 annual limit, $250 deductible, and 80% reimbursement rate.

How to Get an Online Pet Insurance Quote in Houston

Getting an online quote for pet insurance is super easy. Just hop onto the insurer’s website and provide a few details, including:

  • Your zip code
  • Your pet’s species (dog or cat
  • Breed
  • Age
  • Your preferred deductible ($100, $250, $500, $1,000)
  • Type of plan (accident or accident/illness)
  • Reimbursement rate (70%, 80%, 90%)

Once you’ve filled in this info, the insurer will give you personalized rates tailored to your pet. If you’re not sure where to start, simply search “pet insurance in Houston” on Google, and you’ll find a good list of insurers offering coverage for pets in your area.

How to Buy Pet Insurance in Houston

When it comes to getting pet insurance in Houston, the process is similar to buying other types of insurance online. Follow these simple steps:

  • Explore different pet insurance websites: Take your time to look at different websites. Each one has different coverage options, benefits, and prices. This will help you find the right coverage for your pet.
  • Customize your policy: On the insurer’s website, you’ll be asked to provide basic information about your pet. Choose if you want coverage for accidents only or accidents and illnesses. Pick a deductible amount and decide how much of the costs you want the insurance to pay (usually 70%, 80%, or 90%).
  • Get a quote: Based on the options you chose, you’ll receive the price for the plan that suits your pet.
    Complete the application: The application form will already have some of your information. Just fill in the rest, and it should only take a few minutes.
  • Pay the initial premium: You can pay monthly from your bank account or pay the full amount for the year. Some insurers may give a small discount if you pay for the whole year upfront.

Factors That Impact the Cost of Your Pet Insurance in Houston

Several factors impact pet insurance rates, so it’s important to consider them when choosing a plan:

  1. Age
  2. Animal type
  3. Breed
  4. Coverage type
  5. Location

For example, living in a busy area with more potential accidents may lead to higher rates.

Texas Pet Insurance Laws to Know

Exciting news in the world of pet insurance! The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) recently introduced the Pet Insurance Model Act. This new act is designed to make pet insurance more transparent and easier to understand for pet owners everywhere.

Thanks to this law, pet insurance companies are now obligated to give clear and detailed information about rates and coverage to people interested in buying a policy. This means you’ll have all the facts you need to make a well-informed decision about protecting your furry friend.

Moreover, the Pet Insurance Model Act establishes rules that ensure fair practices are followed by insurance providers during the sales process. It’s a positive step forward in promoting fairness and clarity in the world of pet insurance.

Information about Houston

Houston, Texas, is a vibrant city known for its dynamic energy and diverse offerings. From world-class museums and theaters to lush parks and a thriving culinary scene, Houston offers a blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. With a warm climate and a population of over 2.3 million, Houston embraces its rich heritage and fosters a strong sense of community. Whether you’re seeking cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, or a welcoming atmosphere, Houston has it all.

Pet Insurance Discounts in Houston

When buying pet insurance in Houston, you have a range of discounts to help you save money:

  • Upfront premium discounts (paying annually)
  • Military discounts
  • Bundling discounts (combining multiple policies)
  • Multiple pet discounts
  • Senior discounts
  • Discounts for adopting or training your pet
  • Keeping your pet healthy
  • Discounts for certain professions (veterinarians, first responders, healthcare professionals)

Keep in mind that not all insurers offer all these discounts, so it’s essential to compare different options and choose the insurer that provides the discounts you’re looking for.

FAQs

Do all vets take pet insurance in Houston?

In Houston, most vets accept pet insurance because they know how tough it can be for pet owners to handle veterinary bills. They understand that pet treatments can be expensive, and it’s not always easy for owners to pay the full amount right away. Pet insurance steps in to help bridge the gap between affordable care and ensuring pets get the medical attention they require. It’s a vital tool in making sure pets receive the quality care they deserve without causing financial strain for their owners.

Is pet insurance worth it in Houston?

Having pet insurance in Houston, the 8th largest city in Texas, is a smart move. Like in any big city, vet expenses can pile up fast. The price of vet bills can feel like a burden, but with pet insurance, you can rest easy knowing they’ll be taken care of. It means your furry friend can get the treatment they need without you stressing over the costs. It’s a worthwhile investment for your pet’s well-being and your peace of mind.

How much is good pet insurance in Texas?

Pet insurance rates in Texas range from $20 to $90 per month, and sometimes even more. The actual cost will depend on factors like your pet’s age, whether they’re a dog or cat, the coverage type you choose, and your specific location within Houston.

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