Get the Best Pet Insurance in Virginia in 2024

Sponsored by Figo Pet Insurance

Are you a Virginia resident searching for the right pet insurance? With so many options available, finding the best pet insurance policy for your furry friend can be overwhelming. But don't worry, we've got you covered! We did the research and narrowed down the top pet insurance options in Virginia for 2024.

In this guide, we'll look at pet insurance pricing, compare top plans, and explain Virginia’s regulations and protections. By the end, you’ll be ready to choose the best insurance to keep your pet healthy and happy in the Old Dominion.

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Summary: Best Virginia Pet Insurance Ratings

AKC Pet Insurance

Best for pets with pre-existing conditions

Max Annual Coverage

Unlimited

Reimbursement Choices

70%, 80%, 90%

Deductible

$100-$1,000

ASPCA Pet Insurance

Best for wide-ranging coverage

Max Annual Coverage

Unlimited

Reimbursement Choices

70%, 80%, 90%

Deductible

$100-$500

Embrace

Best for flexible policy options

Max Annual Coverage

Unlimited

Reimbursement Choices

70%, 80%, 90%

Deductible

$100-$1,000

Felix

Best for cats

Max Annual Coverage

$15,000

Reimbursement Choices

70%, 80%, 90%

Deductible

$100-$500

Figo

Best for reimbursement options

Max Annual Coverage

Unlimited

Reimbursement Choices

70%, 80%, 90%

Deductible

$100-$750

Pets Best

Best for senior pets

Max Annual Coverage

Unlimited

Reimbursement Choices

70%, 80%, 90%

Deductible

$50-$1,000

Pumpkin

Best for puppies and kittens

Max Annual Coverage

Unlimited

Reimbursement Choices

90%

Deductible

$100-$1,000

Spot

Best for straightforward waiting periods

Max Annual Coverage

Unlimited

Reimbursement Choices

70%, 80%, 90%

Deductible

$100-$1,000

Comparison information is provided using publicly available information as of 9/6/2024 and is only meant to summarize program features, not a specific plan. Review the provider’s plan terms for more details. The description of the providers’ plans are not provided by that company. If you have questions about other plans, please contact an agent of that company. It is our intention to provide fair and accurate comparison information. We attempt to keep information up to date but it may change from time to time. If you are aware of any inaccuracies or changes in the information provided, let us know by emailing info@petplace.com.

How Much Does Pet Insurance Cost in Virginia?

According to our research, Virginia pet insurance costs an average of $36 per month. This gets you a plan with $5,000 in annual coverage, a $250 deductible, and an 80% reimbursement level. For unlimited annual coverage with the same deductible and reimbursement rate, it's $57 a month.

We calculated these figures by averaging the monthly costs from eight major pet insurance providers. To estimate typical expenses, we gathered quotes for a three-year-old, medium-sized, mixed-breed dog in two Virginia cities: Virginia Beach, a major urban center, and Fredericksburg, an average-sized city for the state.

It's important to note that your own Virginia pet insurance cost will depend on factors such as:

Additionally, there are other factors that can affect the cost of pet insurance, such as pre-existing conditions, your pet’s lifestyle, and whether you choose to add on any optional coverage. That's why it's vital to compare Virginia pet insurance plans carefully and choose a policy that suits your budget and your pet's individual needs.

Cost of Pet Insurance for Dogs in Virginia

Per our research, the average cost of pet insurance for a medium-sized mixed breed dog in Virginia is $36 per month*. This is based on a policy with $5,000 of annual pet insurance coverage, a $250 deductible, and an 80% reimbursement level. A policy offering unlimited annual coverage, with a deductible of $250 and an 80% reimbursement rate, costs $57 monthly.

Cost of Pet Insurance in Virginia by Dog Breed

According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), the three most popular dog breeds of 2023 in the U.S. were the French Bulldog, Labrador Retriever, and Golden Retriever. Here are the monthly pet insurance rates you can expect to pay for these breeds in Virginia:

Breed
Average Monthly Cost With $5,000 Annual Coverage
Average Monthly Cost With Unlimited Annual Coverage
French Bulldog
$70
$105
Labrador Retriever
$53
$71
Golden Retriever
$46
$69

Cost of Pet Insurance for Cats in Virginia

Pet insurance for cats is significantly cheaper than dog insurance in Virginia. The average monthly cost for cat insurance in the state ranges from $15 to $41, depending on factors such as age, annual coverage, breed, deductible, plan type, and reimbursement amount**.

Cost of Pet Insurance in Virginia by Cat Breed

In 2023, the three most popular cat breeds in the U.S. were the Ragdoll, Maine Coon Cat, and Persian, according to the Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA). Based on our analysis of Virginia pet insurance, here are the average monthly rates for these breeds:

Breed
Average Monthly Cost With $5,000 Annual Coverage
Average Monthly Cost With Unlimited Annual Coverage
Ragdoll
$27
$39
Maine Coon Cat
$31
$45
Persian
$33
$44

Cost Comparison for Pet Insurance Companies in Virginia

Company
Average Monthly Cost With $5,000 Annual Coverage
Average Monthly Cost With Unlimited Annual Coverage
AKC Pet Insurance
$34
$43
ASPCA Pet Insurance
$32
$62
Embrace
$50
$70
Felix
$20
$25
Figo
$31
$47
Pets Best
$33
$37
Pumpkin
$42
$85
Spot
$29
$51

Types of Pet Insurance Plans

Pet insurance companies offer policies that cover a wide range of issues, from accidents and illnesses to routine care. Here's an overview of the most common types of pet insurance plans:

Accident and Illness

Typically, this type of policy covers unexpected accidents and illnesses, such as broken bones, cancer, and infections. It generally includes diagnostic tests, x-rays, ultrasounds, exam fees, hospital stays, surgeries, and prescription medications.

Coverage may also extend to treatments like prosthetic devices, mobility aids, and, in some cases, alternative therapies such as acupuncture or chiropractic care. Coverage for behavioral issues and insurance for senior dogs and senior cats can vary between providers and might not always be included in the base plan, requiring add-ons or separate policies.

Accident Only

Accident-only pet insurance policies are typically the most affordable plans available, often covering injuries from accidents like cuts, broken bones, and sprains. This can include vet exams, diagnostic testing (x-rays, MRIs, ultrasounds), hospitalization (surgery and treatment), medications, and rehabilitation.

Wellness and Routine Care

Wellness and routine care plans help manage and offset the cost of preventive care to keep your pet healthy. These policies generally cover routine check-ups, vaccinations, dental cleanings, microchipping, deworming, spay/neuter surgeries, and flea and tick prevention. This type of coverage is often available as an optional add-on to an accident and illness policy.

Pre-Existing Conditions

Pet insurance providers traditionally do not cover pre-existing conditions, making this an essential factor for pet parents to consider when choosing a policy. A pre-existing condition is any health issue that your pet was diagnosed with or showed symptoms of before the start date of the insurance policy or during the waiting period.

However, some insurance companies distinguish between curable and incurable pre-existing conditions. For curable conditions, if your pet has been symptom-free and has not required treatment for a specific period – typically for 6 to 12 months before the policy start date – these conditions might then be eligible for coverage. In contrast, incurable conditions, such as chronic diseases or ongoing illnesses, are generally not covered at any point.

Review your sample policy from your provider for a full list of condition coverage and exclusions.

Reimbursement

Reimbursement rates dictate the percentage of the vet bill that will be paid back to you after you've met your deductible. Common reimbursement levels offered by pet insurance companies range from 70% to 90%. Keep in mind that higher reimbursement rates typically result in higher monthly premiums, so you'll need to find the right balance that works for your budget and needs.

Waiting periods are another vital component of pet insurance policies. They refer to the time between the start date of your policy and when coverage actually begins. Most pet insurance plans have a waiting period for both accidents and illnesses, which can range from a few days to several months.

Accidents usually have a shorter waiting period, often starting within 48 to 72 hours after the policy begins, while waiting periods for illnesses might last anywhere from 14 to 30 days or more. It's vital to note these periods because no claims can be made for accidents or illnesses that occur during the waiting period.

How to Find the Best Pet Insurance in Virginia

When choosing pet insurance in Virginia, it's important to consider some unique risks that pets in the state may face. Virginia's diverse environment, from coastal areas to mountains, presents various challenges for pet health.

The varied environment increases the likelihood of tick-borne diseases like Lyme disease, which is particularly risky for dogs. Virginia's waterways may also experience harmful algal blooms, posing a danger if pets swim in or drink from the water.

Additionally, encounters with wildlife such as raccoons or foxes can lead to injuries or diseases like rabies. Seasonal allergies from the diverse plant life can affect pets during spring and fall, and the state's hot, humid summers make heatstroke a concern, especially for brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds.

Given these factors, it's wise to choose a pet insurance plan that offers broad coverage to protect your pet against these regional hazards.

Here are some important features to keep in mind when selecting the best pet insurance plan in Virginia:

Virginia Pet Laws

Virginia has established a comprehensive set of laws and regulations to ensure the welfare of pets and promote responsible pet ownership. These laws are designed to protect both animals and the public. Here are some key pet laws and regulations Virginia residents should be aware of:

Virginia Beach Pet Laws

Virginia Beach, a vibrant coastal city known for its beautiful shores and diverse wildlife, takes pet ownership seriously. The city has crafted a set of laws and regulations that balance the needs of pet owners with public safety and animal welfare. Here are some important pet laws specific to Virginia Beach:

Norfolk Pet Laws

Norfolk, a historic port city in Virginia, has its own laws and regulations for pet ownership that every pet owner should be familiar with. Here are key guidelines to ensure a happy and compliant life with your furry friend in the city:

Chesapeake Pet Laws

Chesapeake, a city where urban charm meets natural beauty, also has laws and regulations for pet ownership. The city's pet laws reflect a balance between fostering a pet-friendly environment and maintaining public safety. Here are a few key highlights:

Common Pet Risks in Virginia

Virginia's diverse landscape and climate present unique challenges for pet owners across the Commonwealth. From the coastal regions to the Blue Ridge Mountains, pets face various health risks that require vigilance and proactive care. Here are some specific risks Virginia pet owners should be aware of:

Veterinary Costs in Virginia

According to Banfield Pet Hospital's Price Estimator, the average cost for a vet visit in Virginia is $67. However, costs will be higher for emergency care or specialized treatments. Here's an overview of vet visit costs in five cities across the state:

City
Average Veterinary Visit Cost With One Pet
Average Veterinary Visit Cost With One Pet
Virginia Beach
$67
$52
Norfolk
$67
$52
Chesapeake
$67
$52
Richmond
$68
$53
Fredericksburg
$81
$63

Best Pet Insurance by City in Virginia

As mentioned earlier, where you live can affect the cost of pet insurance. Here's an overview of the most affordable pet insurance providers in three major cities in Virginia:

City
Cheapest Company/Average Monthly Cost With $5,000 Annual Coverage
Cheapest Company/Average Monthly Cost With Unlimited Annual Coverage
Virginia Beach
Spot, $29
Pets Best, $37
Norfolk
ASPCA, $32
Pets Best, $45
Fredericksburg
Figo, $29
Pets Best, $37

Methodology

The PetPlace team compiled this guide through research and analysis of publicly available data. Some of the factors we considered include policy rates, waiting periods, the availability of a 24/7 vet helpline, and wellness routine care coverage. Our goal is to provide helpful information for pet owners in Virginia. However, we recommend conducting your own research, speaking to your vet, and considering your budget and your pet's specific needs before deciding on a pet insurance provider.

Best Pet Insurance in Virginia FAQs

Is pet insurance worth it for my pets?
For most pet owners, pet insurance is worth considering to help with unexpected and costly veterinary bills. It can provide peace of mind and financial support in case of accidents, illnesses, or other health issues.
How does pet insurance work?

Pet insurance operates similarly to human health insurance. After choosing a plan, you pay a monthly premium to keep coverage active. If your pet needs veterinary care, you first pay out of pocket then submit a claim to your insurance provider.

Depending on your policy details, you may be reimbursed for a significant portion of the cost, after meeting any deductible and considering your reimbursement rate and policy limits.

What is the best age to get dog insurance?
The best time to insure your dog is typically as early as possible. Many companies offer lower rates for younger pets, and you can avoid potential pre-existing condition exclusions by getting coverage early on. However, it's never too late to get pet insurance, and older dogs can still benefit from the financial protection it provides.
What does basic cat insurance cover?
Basic cat insurance typically covers a range of medical expenses related to accidents, illnesses, and sometimes even preventive care. This can include emergency surgeries, diagnostic tests, hospital stays, and treatments for diseases and infections.
What pet insurance companies are the best?
Based on our research, some of the best pet insurance companies in Virginia are included in this guide. However, the best pet insurance company for you and your pet may vary based on factors such as cost, coverage options, and customer service. It's important to research and compare different providers to find the right fit for your pet's needs.

* Average prices were calculated using research based on quotes obtained from publicly available quote tools, utilizing Virginia zip codes. Specifically, quotes were gathered for Virginia Beach (23464) and Fredericksburg (22405). The quotes were generated for a 3-year-old male mixed-breed dog with a $250 deductible, 80% reimbursement rate, and a standard Accident and Illness plan. The quotes were obtained during the period of September 1 – September 6, 2024.

** Average prices were calculated using research based on quotes obtained from publicly available quote tools, utilizing Virginia zip codes. Specifically, quotes were gathered for Virginia Beach (23464) and Fredericksburg (22405). The quotes were generated for a 3-year-old male mixed-breed cat with a $250 deductible, 80% reimbursement rate, and a standard Accident and Illness plan. The quotes were obtained during the period of September 1 – September 6, 2024.

The information presented in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute or substitute for the advice of a veterinarian.