Pet Insurance for Hip Dysplasia

Find pet insurance that covers hip dysplasia and other conditions with Savvy today.

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, updated on September 12th, 2023       

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Looking into pet insurance for your beloved furry friend? Whether you have a playful pup or a curious cat, you can compare pet insurance options from a range of providers and find the perfect coverage that suits your pet's unique needs and your budget. 

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While it comes with its share of joys, pet ownership also has its responsibilities, one of which is ensuring the health and well-being of our furry companions. Pet insurance can offer a safety net for unexpected veterinary expenses, including those related to issues such as hip dysplasia. If your pet has or is at risk of developing this condition, you may be looking for pet insurance policies that cover hip dysplasia. This is where Savvy can lend a hand.

Our online comparison tool allows you to compare a range of pet insurance plans from trusted insurers side by side, helping you find a policy that meets your and your pet’s needs. Get started with a free, no-obligation quote today.

What is hip dysplasia?

Hip dysplasia is a chronic condition that affects the hip joints of certain animals, particularly some breeds of dog. The condition occurs when the ball and socket of the hip joint don’t fit together properly, which can lead to pain, lameness and reduced mobility. Some of the breeds most affected include:

  • German Shepherd
  • Labrador
  • Golden Retriever
  • Rottweiler
  • Saint Bernard
  • French Bulldog
  • Pug
  • Great Dane

The condition can also affect cats, particularly certain breeds such as Maine Coon and Devon Rex cats, but is generally a lot less common in felines.

Is hip dysplasia covered by pet insurance in Australia?

Whether hip dysplasia is covered by pet insurance depends on several factors:

Type of policy

In Australia, there are generally three main types of policy: accident-only, accident and illness and comprehensive. Accident-only cover focuses solely on accidents so are unlikely to cover hip dysplasia unless it is the direct result of an accident. However, accident and illness and comprehensive plans, which offer more extensive protection, might include cover for hip dysplasia treatment, depending on the circumstances.

Pre-existing condition

If your pet is displaying symptoms or has been diagnosed with hip dysplasia, you will unlikely be able to get pet insurance coverage for the condition, as it will be considered pre-existing. However, if you take out your policy before your pet shows any signs of the condition, such as when your dog is young and healthy, it should be covered if it later develops hip dysplasia.

Waiting period

Most pet insurance policies have waiting periods before coverage for certain conditions, including hip dysplasia, kicks in. This prevents people from buying insurance only after their pet is diagnosed, but it also means that if your pet develops symptoms of hip dysplasia during the waiting period, it may not be covered for the condition. The waiting period for conditions such as hip dysplasia can be as long as 6 months, but it is important to check your policy’s product disclosure statement (PDS) to determine exact waiting periods and coverage terms.

How can pet insurance help with hip dysplasia?

Dealing with the potential challenges of hip dysplasia in your pet can feel overwhelming, but pet insurance can be a valuable tool in managing this condition and providing quality care. It can offer:

  • Coverage for diagnosis and treatment: pet insurance coverage may extend to essential aspects of hip dysplasia treatment, including diagnostic tests, medications and surgical procedures.
  • Preventative care: certain pet insurance plans may offer coverage for preventative measures such as regular check-ups and screenings. This ensures timely intervention and potentially minimises the impact of the condition by detecting it early.
  • Early intervention: timely action is crucial in effectively managing hip dysplasia. Pet insurance empowers you to seek immediate medical attention, preventing the condition from worsening and enhancing your pet’s quality of life.
  • Financial peace of mind: pet insurance acts as a safety net, offering financial peace of mind when it comes to the costs of hip dysplasia treatment. This enables you to prioritise your pet’s health without worrying about the financial burden.

Types of pet insurance you can choose from

Accident-only

This is the most basic type of pet insurance, covering costs for accidental injuries such as car accidents, poisoning, burns, fractures, snake and spider bites, but not illnesses and other conditions. 

Accident and illness

This type of insurance provides cover for accidental injuries as well as illnesses like cancer, gastrointestinal problems and eye, ear and skin conditions, but not routine care for your pet.

Comprehensive

This offers the highest level of protection, covering accident and illness and potentially routine care such as vaccinations, dental care, worm and flea treatments and microchipping.

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Frequently asked questions about hip dysplasia on pet insurance

Is it still worth taking out pet insurance if my dog has been diagnosed with hip dysplasia?

Even if it has been diagnosed with hip dysplasia, pet insurance for your dog can still be beneficial. While the pre-existing condition might not be covered, the policy can provide coverage for new injuries and unrelated illnesses that your pet may face. This becomes particularly relevant as pets age and are more prone to developing various health issues. Although existing conditions might limit coverage, considering pet insurance can help you prepare for unexpected health challenges down the road.

Can I switch to a different pet insurance provider if my current one doesn’t cover hip dysplasia?

Yes – you can always switch to a different pet insurance provider. However, there are factors to consider. If your pet has been diagnosed with hip dysplasia while insured with the current provider, the new insurer might also consider it a pre-existing condition. Additionally, there could be waiting periods before the new coverage takes effect, during which your pet's hip dysplasia won't be covered. Age, health, policy terms, coverage limits and potential exclusions should all be carefully reviewed with the new provider to ensure appropriate coverage for your pet’s needs.

What other conditions can pet insurance cover?

Depending on your policy, pet insurance can cover a range of issues beyond hip dysplasia, such as:    

  • Fractures
  • Cuts and lacerations
  • Burns
  • Insect bites
  • Digestive problems
  • Cancer
  • Respiratory infections
  • Eye, skin and ear conditions

 

To understand the extent of coverage, review the policy details of the specific plan you're considering.