Best Pet Insurance For Border Collies

Border Collies, cherished for their remarkable intelligence and herding prowess, are iconic working breeds. Originating from the border regions of England and Scotland, they excel as herding dogs due to their agility and instinct. With a medium-length double coat, they display a variety of colors, including black and white, red and white, and more.

Energetic and driven, Border Collies thrive in households that provide mental and physical stimulation. Their unmatched herding skills and intense focus make them outstanding working partners on farms and in dog sports. As loyal companions, Border Collies form deep connections with their owners, displaying a dedicated and affectionate demeanor. Renowned for their sharp minds and tireless work ethic, Border Collies continue to be one of the most admired working breeds worldwide.

If you own a Border Collie, you’re undoubtedly concerned about its health and well-being. As a pure breed, a Border Collie is more likely to suffer from genetic health issues than mixed-breed dogs. Unfortunately, 4 out of 5 pet parents can’t pay for an unexpected $500 veterinary bill out-of-pocket. However, pet insurance will help you reduce your financial risk.

In this review, we’ll look at some of the top pet insurers for Border Collies and help you pick the policy that best meets your needs. You’ll find that pet insurance is much like personal health insurance; it provides better treatment options and limits out-of-pocket costs. But unlike private health insurance, it won’t cost you an arm and a leg.

Common Health Issues For Border Collies

Purebred dogs, such as Border Collies, often encounter health challenges. Over time, certain breeders have not given enough attention to genetics when breeding Border Collies, resulting in problems that affect the entire Collie community. Generally, Border Collies are more likely to have genetic health issues compared to other breeds.

Here are some common health concerns for Border Collies:

• Hip Dysplasia
• Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA)
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
• Epilepsy
• Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD)
• Hypothyroidism
• Border Collie Collapse (a condition related to exercise)

Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is a genetic condition that can affect Border Collies. It involves the improper formation of the hip joint, leading to pain and mobility issues. This condition can cause discomfort and limit the dog’s activity. While milder cases can often be managed with medication and physical therapy, more severe cases may require surgical intervention to improve joint function. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to monitor hip health in Border Collies and provide timely treatment if needed.

Surgery can cost anywhere from $1,700 to $6,000+ per hip.

Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA)

Collie Eye Anomaly is a hereditary eye condition that primarily affects Collie breeds, including Border Collies. It can lead to various abnormalities in the eye, potentially causing vision impairment. Regular eye exams by a veterinary ophthalmologist are crucial to monitor and manage CEA. While there is no cure, early detection allows for better care and maintaining the dog’s quality of life.

The cost of treatment for CEA in dogs can range from $1,500 to $5,000 per eye.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

PRA is a genetic eye disorder that can affect Border Collies, gradually leading to blindness. Night blindness is usually the first symptom, followed by daytime vision loss. While there is no cure for PRA, responsible breeding practices and genetic testing can help reduce the incidence of this condition in Border Collies.

The cost of treatment for PRA in dogs can range from $2,000 to $3,000 per eye when surgery is necessary.

Epilepsy

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that Border Collies can experience, resulting in recurrent seizures. Managing epilepsy may involve medication and lifestyle adjustments. Regular veterinary consultations and medication adherence are vital to controlling seizures and providing the Border Collie with the best possible quality of life.

Treatment for epilepsy in dogs can range from $200 to $500 per year in simple cases. For complex cases, the cost can increase to $1,000 to $5,000 per year. If surgery to remove a brain tumor is required, the cost can range from $5,000 to $15,000.

Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD)

OCD is an orthopedic condition that can affect Border Collies, particularly in their shoulders and elbows. It involves the development of abnormal cartilage and can cause lameness and pain. Treatment may include rest, medication, or surgical intervention to correct the affected joints. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial to prevent long-term joint damage.

The cost of fixing OCD without pet insurance can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the location of the treatment. According to the search results, the cost of surgical treatment for OCD typically ranges from $1,500 to $4,000.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism, an underactive thyroid gland, can affect Border Collies, leading to symptoms like weight gain, lethargy, and skin problems. Diagnosis involves a blood test, and treatment typically includes daily thyroid hormone supplementation to manage the condition effectively.

The cost of fixing hypothyroidism without pet insurance can range from $850 in the first year, and $300-$700 for each additional year of your dog’s life.

However, the average cost of thyroid hormone deficiency treatment is $1,800.

Border Collie Collapse (A Condition Related To Exercise)

Border Collie Collapse, also known as exercise-induced collapse (EIC), is a genetic condition that can affect some Border Collies during intense physical activity. Affected dogs may experience muscle weakness, collapse, and, in severe cases, seizures. Management involves avoiding strenuous exercise and providing adequate rest. While there is no cure, understanding the dog’s limitations and preventing overexertion can help Border Collies with EIC lead active but controlled lives.

The cost of treatment for Border Collie Collapse in dogs can range from $500 to $1,000 per year.

Average Cost Of Pet Insurance For Border Collies

Average Cost Of Typical Vet Procedures

Average Cost Of Emergency Vet Procedures

Is Pet Insurance Worth It For Border Collies?

Pet insurance protects against unexpected veterinary bills. Many pet owners pay out-of-pocket for their pet’s medical expenses, but most Americans can’t afford a $1500 emergency vet bill. The right pet insurance can literally be a lifesaver. Having coverage will give you the freedom to make medical decisions for your furry family member based on the quality of life, not finances.

The value of pet insurance is largely based on your expectations. If your pet is currently undergoing treatment for a chronic condition and you would like help with the cost of the treatment, you will likely be disappointed as no company in our review covers preexisting conditions.

But, if you understand your policy and what it does and doesn’t cover and have a policy that fits your budget and needs, you are far more likely to consider the policy worth it.

How To Find The Best Pet Insurance Company For You

The costs and types of pet insurance plans available on the market vary by company, making choosing one over the others challenging. To find the best plan for your pet, consider these tips before applying for coverage:

Check Whether Your Pet Is Eligible

Puppies and kittens often must be a minimum of 6 to 10 weeks old to be insured, depending on the company. Senior pets may not be eligible for first-time enrollment with some companies, or they may qualify for accident coverage only. Once the pet is enrolled, though, most plans will offer coverage for life as long as you continue paying the premiums.

Research What’s Covered

Pet insurance plans typically cover expenses like surgery, hospitalization and medication if your pet gets sick or hurt. However, there are certain things that some companies charge extra for or won’t cover at all. Here are a few examples:

• Exam fees. Say your dog breaks her leg. Some plans will reimburse expenses like X-rays,  surgery and pain medication, but not the vet’s exam fee.
• Alternative treatments and rehabilitation. Some companies include coverage for things like acupuncture and physical therapy in their standard plans. Others charge extra.
• Behavioral therapies. Not all policies cover veterinary treatment for aggression or other behavioral issues.
• Prescription food. Certain plans won’t cover food or supplements at all, even if your vet prescribes them for a covered condition.·
• Dental care. Pet insurance plans vary widely when it comes to caring for your pet’s teeth. For example, your policy may not cover dental illnesses such as gingivitis or periodontal disease. Alternatively, it may cover them only if your pet has had a recent tooth cleaning. Some add-on wellness plans pay for cleanings.

Note that pet insurance policies usually won’t cover pre-existing conditions, cosmetic procedures, or breeding expenses.

Decide How Much Coverage You Want

Most pet insurance plans cap the amount they pay out per year, although some have no annual limit. Only you can decide the amount that gives you reasonable peace of mind for paying vet bills.

If your dog or cat is relatively healthy, you might go years without paying for anything but routine care. But an unexpected surgery or serious illness could add up to thousands of dollars in expenses.

Understand Reimbursements And Deductibles

Most pet insurance plans reimburse you for a percentage of your vet bill. You can generally choose a reimbursement level — such as 70%, 80% or 90% — when you buy the plan.

Other plans pay what the insurance company deems a standard fee for a given treatment, which might be less than what your vet charges. You’d be responsible for the remainder.

Most plans also have a deductible — the dollar amount you pay out of pocket before the policy pays. You can usually choose from a range of deductibles, such as $100, $250, or more. Some plans apply deductibles to each injury or illness that’s treated. Most have you pay the deductible every year.

Generally, the lower your out-of-pocket costs are, the more you’ll pay for coverage. A lower deductible and higher reimbursement rate can lead to a higher premium, while a higher deductible and lower reimbursement rate can mean a lower premium.

Check Waiting Periods

Most plans include short waiting periods after you purchase the policy for general accident and illness coverage, such as 14 days. Your plan won’t pay for any treatment during the waiting period.

Some plans include longer waiting periods for coverage of certain conditions, such as cruciate ligament injuries — a common orthopedic problem for dogs. The cruciate ligaments help stabilize the knee; when injured, it can make it difficult for a dog to walk.

Examine Extra Costs

Some pet insurance companies offer coverage for routine services such as well visits and vaccinations. While this may sound tempting, do the math to determine whether it’s worth the extra cost. Compare the annual price of the wellness insurance plan with the amount you’d pay each year on your own for services the plan covers. Read the details because the items covered for “wellness” vary by pet insurance company.

Compare Quotes

The cost of insurance varies by carrier and the amount of coverage. Some pet insurers offer discounts; you might be able to save money by insuring more than one pet, for example. But a discount doesn’t guarantee the plan is the best deal.

The only way to find the best insurance for your pet is to dig into the details and get quotes for several plans. Make sure you’re making a fair comparison with similar coverage amounts, deductibles, and reimbursement limits.

Factors That Impact Cost Of Your Pet Insurance Policy

Similar to your health insurance plan, your pet insurance price is going to vary depending on certain factors, such as:

• Where you live. Pet insurance companies take the cost of vet care in your area into account when pricing your policy.
• Your pet’s age. Because older animals are more likely to have health problems, their premiums are generally higher.
• Your pet’s breed. Certain breeds are more prone to health issues. For example, bulldogs and Boston terriers often develop breathing problems, while German Shepherds and other large breeds are more likely than others to get hip dysplasia. These potential problems may be reflected in the cost of your pet insurance plan.
• Your deductibles, coinsurance and coverage limits. The less you’re willing to pay out of pocket for your pet’s care, the higher your pet insurance premium will be. For instance, choosing a $100 deductible instead of a $500 one means your plan will start reimbursing you sooner for your pet’s care — but it’ll cost you more in premiums.

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