
As a Shiba Inu owner, you know how much joy and companionship they bring to your life. Shiba Inus are known for their independent nature, but they still require proper care and attention to stay happy and healthy.
Their average lifespan is around 12-15 years, so it's essential to consider their long-term needs when choosing an insurance plan. With proper care, they can live a long and fulfilling life.
Shiba Inus are prone to certain health issues, such as hip dysplasia and eye problems, which can be costly to treat. Regular veterinary check-ups and preventative care can help identify potential issues early on, saving you money and stress in the long run.
To ensure your Shiba Inu receives the best possible care, it's crucial to select an insurance plan that covers a wide range of health issues, including genetic conditions and accidents.
Why Get a Dog?
Getting a dog is a big decision, but it can be a incredibly rewarding one. Owning a Shiba Inu, in particular, can be a great choice for many people.
Shiba Inus are known for their loyalty and affection towards their owners, making them great companions. They thrive on attention and interaction, which means they'll keep you on your toes.
Shiba Inus are relatively small in size, but they have big personalities. They require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy.
Having a Shiba Inu can also bring a sense of responsibility and structure to your life. They need regular grooming and training to stay well-behaved.
Shiba Inus are generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they can be prone to certain health issues. Regular veterinary check-ups can help prevent or detect these issues early on.
Overall, getting a dog, especially a Shiba Inu, can be a wonderful experience that brings joy and companionship into your life.
Common Health Issues
Shiba Inus are prone to certain health issues that can be costly to diagnose and treat. Hip Dysplasia and Patellar Luxation are two common conditions that can affect your furry friend.
Hip Dysplasia can cost between $1,500 and $6,000 to diagnose and treat, with a medium risk profile. Patellar Luxation, on the other hand, has a high risk profile and can cost between $1,500 and $3,000.
Here are some estimates of claims paid by pet insurance companies for common Shiba Inu health issues:
Common Health Issues
Shiba Inus are prone to certain health issues, and it's essential to be aware of them. Hip Dysplasia is a common condition that can lead to arthritis and mobility problems.
The cost of diagnosing and treating Hip Dysplasia can range from $1,500 to $6,000. This is a significant expense, and it's crucial to have pet insurance to cover such costs.
Patellar Luxation, on the other hand, is a condition where the kneecap slips out of place. This can be quite painful for your Shiba Inu.
The cost of treating Patellar Luxation can range from $1,500 to $3,000. This is a serious condition that requires prompt attention.
Here's a breakdown of some common health issues affecting Shiba Inus:
Hypothyroidism is a disorder caused by a lack of thyroid hormone in the body. It can result in hair loss, obesity, and dry skin.
Pre-existing Conditions
Many pet insurance companies, including ManyPets, won't cover pre-existing conditions for any type of pet. This means if your Shiba Inu has a condition that existed before you got the insurance, it won't be covered.
However, ManyPets may treat past conditions that have been free of symptoms and treatment for 18 months, except for cruciate ligament injuries or hip dysplasia.
You're required to declare any pre-existing conditions when getting insurance for your Shiba Inu, so honesty is the best policy. If you lie, you can get penalized, and if your Shiba Inu does have a certain condition not previously mentioned, the policy may be voided.
Insurance Options
Embrace stands out for its flexibility and comprehensive coverage, with no limitations on genetic and hereditary illnesses. This means you won't have to worry about your Shiba Inu's health issues being excluded from coverage.
One of the key benefits of Embrace is its ability to personalize your pet insurance plan, allowing you to customize the coverage to fit your budget and your Shiba Inu's needs. This flexibility is a major advantage over other companies that may charge extra for certain conditions or only offer routine care with their more expensive plans.
Here are some of the top Shiba Inu pet insurance providers, ranked by their average monthly prices based on a healthy 2-year-old Shiba Inu with a $500 deductible and 90% reimbursement amount:
[Comparison]
Comparison is key when it comes to finding the right pet insurance for your Shiba Inu. Embrace stands out for its flexibility and comprehensive coverage, with no limitations on genetic and hereditary illnesses. This means your Shiba Inu's health issues will be covered, without any exclusions.
If you're looking for the most affordable rates, Lemonade has the best Shiba Inu pet insurance policy. Their user experience is world-class, and their customer service team is award-winning.
Other providers like Figo and Trupanion offer unique features, such as video chat services with vets and unlimited annual benefits. However, these come at a higher cost, with Figo's prices starting at $49.18/month and Trupanion's at $56.43/month.
Here's a brief comparison of the top providers:
Ultimately, the right provider for you will depend on your specific needs and budget. Be sure to research and compare the features and prices of each provider before making a decision.
Age Restrictions & Waiting Periods
Most pet insurance companies have a minimum age requirement of typically six to eight weeks old before allowing you to enroll your pet.
Some companies cap the age at which you can sign up an older dog at 14 years old, although this is only a few companies.
All providers have waiting periods, which are short periods at the beginning of a new policy until your pet's condition becomes eligible for reimbursement.
The average waiting period for illnesses is 14 days, and for accidents, it is less than five days.
Any pre-existing conditions, accidents, or illnesses diagnosed or showing symptoms during the waiting period are excluded from coverage.
Older animals, just like senior citizens, often require more treatment, which is why some insurers may not accept pets over 8 or 9 years old.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Shiba Inu expensive to take care of?
Shiba Inu ownership comes with a significant upfront cost, but annual expenses decrease over time. On average, Shiba Inus cost around $19,000 over their lifetime.
Sources
- https://www.embracepetinsurance.com/breed/Shiba-Inu-pet-insurance
- https://manypets.com/us/pet-insurance/dog-insurance/pure-breeds/shiba-inu-insurance/
- https://myfirstshiba.com/shiba-inu-insurance/
- https://theswiftest.com/best-shiba-inu-pet-insurance/
- https://www.caninejournal.com/best-pet-insurance-shiba-inu/
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