Insurance 101 (MetLife Pet) - Billing, Things to be aware of, General Recs.

1) 10% discount: I have insurance through my partner's company (one of the big 5 tech companies)who offers a 10% discount. Discounts are also offered for Healthcare workers, veterans, and volunteers at animal shelters.

2) They update your Premium when you change billing addresses (Zip code). My premium for the same coverage went up over 50%, $53 to $81, just after a year from moving to a new zip code less than 3 miles from my old address. They reset your annual plan (new deductible). So if you want a steady premium and rent, I suggest using a family member who owns a home and having all billing address for your vet, etc. go there if possible. Reimbursement checks for vet bills will go to this address. I'm not sure if regular renewals have premium increases.

3) Waiting period after you buy a policy is 2 weeks so wait before you take your pet to an annual exam.

4) They do not cover preexisting conditions, so if money is tight, symptoms are not urgent, and you want coverage, do not offer information to your vet regarding any signs of concerns at their first pet visit. You want their health profile as clean as possible, so they don't have evidence to deny claims. It's disheartening as hell when ongoing treatment for your pet is hundred of $$$ and the economy is tight.

5) If you have a cat, take them to a vet that specializes (only sees) in cats. I switched between three vets and the care provided was substantial. Vet 1 and 2 who were general vets recommended unnecessary tests and ointment for diagnosing why my cat had teary eye but none of the above helped. Vet 3 (a cat vet) finally told me it was herpes related and prescribed me a supplement to help with symptoms.

6) Message me if you want to see MetLife's policy. I downgraded my premium to keep it affordable and currently have the $200 annual deductible/ 90% coverage/ $3k limit with wellness coverage (covers dental cleaning, dental radiographs, anesthesia, supplements, etc.) plan for $53/ month which is still worth it since annual dental cleaning is already $1k per year.

Pros: Their customer service has been great to cover any questions you have regarding your claims and/ or policy. It's easy to file a claim online, but it takes a couple weeks to get a reimbursement check.

I hope this brings some light to pet coverage. I get so stressed out when I have to deal with medical/vet bills and insurance.