When you think of the American Kennel Club, your mind probably jumps to purebred dogs, dog shows, and maybe even those helpful training tips. But did you know they also offer pet insurance? It's a lesser-known facet of the AKC, but one that could be a real lifesaver for your furry family members. Let's dive into what AKC Pet Insurance offers, particularly focusing on what they call 'AlternativePlus' coverage.
AKC Pet Insurance, underwritten by Independence American Insurance Company or Independence Pet Insurance Company and produced by PetPartners Inc., provides a range of plans for both dogs and cats across the U.S. They've got two main accident-and-illness plans, plus an accident-only option. What's interesting is how they've bundled in some unique features, like the 'AlternativePlus' add-on.
What Exactly is AlternativePlus?
This isn't just a standard wellness rider. The AlternativePlus add-on is actually built right into their Custom and Basic CompanionCare accident-and-illness plans. It's not available with the AccidentCare plan, so keep that in mind. For a $1,000 annual limit, it opens the door to a variety of therapies that go beyond traditional veterinary medicine. We're talking about things like acupuncture, chiropractic treatment, and even herbal supplements and vitamins. It also covers alternative and complementary therapies for behavioral problems, which can be a huge relief for owners dealing with anxious or reactive pets.
Beyond the Alternative: What Else is Covered?
Beyond the AlternativePlus, the core accident-and-illness plans are quite comprehensive. They cover a wide array of accidents and injuries – from broken bones and toxin ingestions to cat and dog fights. Illnesses are also well-represented, including common issues like allergies, UTIs, and more serious conditions like cancer and hypothyroidism. Diagnostic tools like X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans are included, as are emergency ground ambulance transportation and hospitalization. They even cover chemotherapy and prescription diets when they're the sole treatment for a condition.
AKC Pet Insurance offers a 'Custom' accident-and-illness plan where you can tailor your deductible, reimbursement rate, and annual coverage limit. There's also a 'Basic' plan with set terms, including a $100 deductible, 80% reimbursement, and unlimited annual coverage, though it does have a $500 per-incident limit. Both plans require your pet to have annual physicals and recommended vaccines, and you'll need to follow your vet's advice and take reasonable care of your pet.
The Accident-Only Option
If you're looking for something more focused, the AccidentCare plan is a solid choice. It's strictly for accidents, with a $100 deductible, 90% reimbursement, and a $20,000 annual limit. This plan can't be customized, but it does cover things like broken bones, lacerations, and even snakebites. Interestingly, this plan does include alternative treatments like hydrotherapy and physical therapy, which is a nice touch for recovery after an accident.
Things to Consider
It's worth noting that there's a 9-year upper age limit for the accident-and-illness plans, which is something to factor in if you have an older pet. Also, the accident-only coverage can't be customized. For those with purebred dogs, AKC breeders can get specific discounts, which is a neat perk.
Ultimately, AKC Pet Insurance, with its integrated AlternativePlus coverage, offers a well-rounded approach to pet healthcare. It’s about providing options that cater to a broader spectrum of needs, from conventional treatments to more holistic and behavioral support, all while keeping the well-being of our beloved pets at the forefront.
