Waiting Periods Are Insurance Company Protection
Waiting periods exist so people don't sign up for insurance after their pet gets sick. I get it, but it doesn't make losing $7,000 feel any better.
Accidents Are Covered Immediately
If Bella had been hit by a car on day one, insurance would have covered it. Accidents have no waiting period. But bloat is considered an illness, not an accident, so the 14-day waiting period applied. Emergency surgery, but still an illness.
Illness Waiting Periods Vary
My policy had a 14-day waiting period for illnesses. Some companies have 30 days. Others have just 2-3 days. When I was shopping, I focused on monthly premiums and didn't pay attention to waiting periods. Big mistake.
Orthopedic Conditions Have Longer Waits
Hip dysplasia, cruciate tears, and other joint problems often have 6-12 month waiting periods. These are expensive conditions that people might try to insure after symptoms appear. The long waiting periods prevent that, but they also catch legitimate cases.