Get the Best Pet Insurance in Washington, D.C. in 2025

Sponsored by Figo Pet Insurance

Summary: Washington, D.C. 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 3/19/2025 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 Washington, D.C.?

According to our research, Washington, D.C.pet insurance costs an average of $52 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 $85 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 Washington, D.C.

It's important to note that your own Washington, D.C. pet insurance cost will depend on factors such as:

• Annual limit, deductible, and reimbursement level. These are the three primary components that determine your monthly premium. The annual limit is the maximum amount the policy will pay out in a year. The deductible is the amount you pay out-of-pocket before the insurance starts to cover costs. The reimbursement level is the percentage of the covered costs the insurance pays after the deductible. Generally, the higher the annual limit and reimbursement level, the more expensive the policy will be.
• Breed and gender. Some breeds are more prone to certain health conditions than others, which can impact the cost of insurance. Additionally, some insurers may charge different rates based on the gender of your pet.
• Your location. Where you live can affect the cost of pet insurance. Urban areas tend to have higher premiums due to the higher cost of veterinary care in cities.
• Your pet’s age. Just like with human insurance, the younger your pet is when you enroll them in a policy, the lower the premium will be. As they age, premiums may increase.

Additionally, there are other factors that can affect the cost of pet insurance, such as pre-existing conditions, your pet’s lifestyle, and whether or not you choose to add on any optional coverage. That's why it's vital to compare 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 Washington, D.C.

Per our research, the average cost of pet insurance for a medium-sized mixed breed dog in Washington, D.C. is $52 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 $85 monthly.

Cost of Pet Insurance in Washington, D.C. 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 Washington, D.C.:

Cost of Pet Insurance for Cats in Washington, D.C.

Pet insurance for cats is significantly cheaper than dog insurance in Washington, D.C. The average monthly cost for cat insurance in the nation's capital ranges from $28 to $83, depending on factors such as age, annual coverage, breed, deductible, plan type, and reimbursement amount**.

Cost of Pet Insurance in Washington, D.C. 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 Washington, D.C. pet insurance, here are the average monthly rates for these breeds:

Cost Comparison for Pet Insurance Companies in Washington, D.C.

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

This type of policy typically 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, covering injuries from accidents like cuts, broken bones, and sprains. This includes 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 Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C.'s urban landscape offers plenty for pets to explore, but it also presents unique risks that pet owners should consider when selecting insurance coverage.

Wildlife like raccoons, foxes, and bats are common in the city and can carry rabies, making regular vaccinations essential. Zoonotic diseases, including leptospirosis and Lyme disease, are also a concern, especially for pets that spend time in parks or near standing water. Preventive care and vaccinations can help reduce these risks.

Urban hazards, such as exposure to antifreeze, road salt, and household toxins, are another consideration. Keeping harmful substances out of reach and wiping paws after walks can help keep pets safe.

Veterinary costs in Washington, D.C., can be high, especially in emergencies. Choosing a pet insurance plan that covers preventive care, accidents, and illnesses ensures pets are protected against common risks in the city and helps manage unexpected vet expenses.

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

• 24/7 vet helpline. Access to a 24-hour veterinary helpline for immediate advice on emergency care or general health questions can be incredibly valuable.
• Direct vet payments. Some insurance providers offer the option to pay your vet bills directly, so you don't have to pay out of pocket and wait for reimbursement.
• Wellness and routine care coverage. Choosing a policy that offers wellness and routine care coverage can help offset the costs of preventive care.
• Waiting periods. Consider the waiting periods for accidents and illnesses to ensure you understand when coverage will begin.
• Vet exam fees coverage. Veterinary costs in Washington, D.C. are relatively expensive and can quickly add up, so having coverage for exam fees can lead to substantial long-term savings.
• Multi-pet discount. If you have multiple pets, look for providers that offer discounts for insuring more than one pet.

Washington, D.C. Pet Laws

From the National Mall to neighborhood parks, pets are a big part of life in Washington, D.C. To ensure their safety and well-being, the District has specific animal laws every pet owner needs to know. Here’s a quick guide to staying compliant:

• Dog licensing and vaccinations. Dogs over four months old must be licensed annually by July 1 or within 10 days of acquisition. Rabies and distemper vaccinations are required, and dogs must wear a collar or harness with their license attached. Cats over four months must also be vaccinated against rabies.
• Animals at large. Dogs must be leashed, tethered, or otherwise controlled when off their owner's property unless they’re in a designated dog park. Owners can be held negligent if their loose dog injures someone, regardless of prior behavior. These rules do not apply to cats.
• Adequate care. Owners are legally responsible for providing proper food, shelter, space, water, and necessary veterinary care. This also includes humane handling, confinement, and transport. Failing to meet these standards is considered neglect.
• Animal abandonment. It's illegal to abandon an animal without arranging for its care. Owners must transfer the animal to a new caretaker or surrender it to the Animal Care and Control Agency to avoid abandonment violations.
• Extreme weather precautions. Animals cannot be left outdoors without proper shelter for more than 15 minutes in extreme temperatures (below 32°F or above 90°F). For dogs, this includes a covered shelter with insulation in cold weather and access to shade in hot weather.

Common Pet Risks in Washington, D.C.

While Washington, D.C., is a vibrant city for pets to explore, it also presents several risks that pet owners should keep in mind. From urban hazards to wildlife encounters, understanding these risks can help keep your pets safe and healthy:

• Urban wildlife encounters. Washington, D.C. is home to wildlife like raccoons, foxes, and bats, which can carry diseases like rabies. Pets that roam parks or backyards are at higher risk of encounters, making supervision and up-to-date vaccinations essential for their safety.
• Tick-borne and waterborne diseases. Ticks in the area can spread Lyme disease, especially in grassy or wooded parks. Leptospirosis, a bacterial disease found in standing water, is also a concern. Regular tick prevention, vaccinations, and keeping pets away from stagnant water can help protect them.
• Toxic substances. In winter, road salt and antifreeze are common hazards in the city. These substances can irritate paws or be dangerous if ingested. Wiping pets’ paws after walks and keeping harmful substances stored safely helps minimize risks.
• Heat-related illnesses. D.C.’s hot, humid summers can lead to dehydration and heatstroke, particularly for pets left in cars or outdoors. Ensure pets have access to water and shade, and avoid outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day.
• Traffic risks. Busy streets and heavy traffic can be dangerous for pets, especially those that manage to slip out of yards or homes. Keeping pets leashed during walks and ensuring secure fencing at home are important for their safety.

Veterinary Costs in Washington, D.C.

According to Banfield Pet Hospital's Price Estimator, the average cost for a vet visit in Washington, D.C. is $87. However, costs will be higher for emergency care or specialized treatments. Pet insurance helps cover these costs, making it a practical way to protect your pets and your finances.

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 Washington, D.C. However, we recommend conducting your own research, speaking to a licensed vet, and considering your budget and your pet's specific needs before deciding on a pet insurance provider.

Best Pet Insurance in Washington, D.C. FAQs

Recommended Resources

• 7 Essential Tips for Choosing a Pet Insurance Policy That’s Right for You
• Compare and Contrast Pet Insurance Providers
• How Are Pet Wellness Plans Different from Pet Insurance?
• Is Pet Insurance Worth It for an Indoor Cat?
• Pet Insurance: What It Covers
• Pet Insurance for Kittens