The Puppy Patient
There’s nothing more exciting than bringing home a new puppy for the first time! And no matter how hard you prepare to make things perfect for your new addition, in reality, it sometimes just doesn’t work out that way and many things can go wrong. As we like to say, accidents can happen, and pets get sick!
Below are some common puppy insurance claims:
Parvo and/or Distemper Virus:
Parvo is a highly contagious viral illness that can affect all dogs, but unvaccinated dogs and puppies are the most at risk. The virus attacks the gastrointestinal tract, usually affecting dogs with persistent vomiting and diarrhea, causing rapid dehydration, damage to the intestines & immune system.
Distemper is another highly contagious virus that attacks the respiratory, gastrointestinal and nervous system. Puppies often become infected through airborne exposure such as sneezing or coughing from an infected dog or other animals.
A visit to your veterinarian for Parvo or Distemper could cost up to $2,000.
Foreign Body Ingestion/Obstruction:
Puppies explore their surroundings with their mouths, which is why it’s so important they don’t get the run of the entire house to pick up and chew on whatever they please. A foreign body is an item or object that enters the body easy enough but will get stuck or lodged during its exit. Commonly seen puppy foreign bodies include kid’s toys, socks/underwear, stuffing from a toy or pillow, shoe material, and sticks.
Tip: It’s important to confine puppies to a crate, pen or puppy-proof room if they can’t be supervised. Provide adequate & safe puppy chew toys and always keep your pup on a lead when out for a walk or in the backyard.
A visit to your veterinarian for a foreign body could cost up to $5,000.
Parasites:
Intestinal parasites and/or worms are a very common illness seen in puppies. The most common types are Giardia, Coccidia, Roundworms, and Tapeworms. Most of the time the effects of parasites are short-term, however, if not diagnosed and treated can lead to serious issues. External parasites like fleas, ticks, and mites live in the fur, biting and feeding on the blood of their host. This can cause severe itching, pain, and hair loss as well as spreading infections and/or disease.
Tip: It’s important to see your veterinarian so they can rule out any external or internal parasites to keep you and your pup safe!
A visit to your veterinarian to treat parasites could cost up to $500.
Fractures:
The leading cause of bone fractures in puppies is trauma. This usually results from being hit by a car, a fall, being stepped on or roughhousing with other pets in the house. Depending on the location and type of fracture depends on the treatment required and can vary in cost. Surgery is commonly required to fix most fractures, followed by weeks of rest and sometimes rehabilitation – not a very fun time for your newly acquired pooch or your wallet!
A visit to your veterinarian for a fracture repair could cost up to $5,000.
Gastroenteritis (Vomiting/Diarrhea)
Gastroenteritis refers to inflammation of the intestinal tract (stomach and intestines). Most cases of gastroenteritis are unknown, but with puppies, it’s important to rule out any parasites as mentioned above. It’s also important to remember that until your puppy adjusts, it can be a very stressful and high anxiety time, which could also be a causing factor. In most cases, with supportive treatment, this gastro upset will clear up within a few days.
A visit to your veterinarian for a gastrointestinal upset could cost up to $1,000.
It’s important to take your puppy to see the vet for an overall health check within the first 48-72hrs of bringing them home. This allows your veterinarian to check for any birth defects, hereditary disorders, and/or abnormalities.
Every pet owner wants their pet to be happy & healthy and insuring your puppy early helps you get the best coverage possible. Accident & Illness coverage means you’re as prepared as you can be. Learn more and get a quote today: https://www.petsplusus.com/insurance-coverage/accident-illness-coverage