As my dog gets older, he has been going to the vet more often and it's starting to cost a LOT of money. I'm considering getting a health plan for him in case anything happens in the future. Do you guys have any company that you'd recommend over others? I've been reading reviews online, but I'm hoping to get some advice from you guys.

Some info on my dog:

5-year-old GSD
Recently neutered
Not vaccinated

Pre-existing conditions:
HD Right Hip
Struvite Crystals/Enlarged prostate (diagnosed and treated last month)
He had some diarrhea issues when he was a puppy, but those aren't present anymore

I think it will be hard to find coverage with those pre-existing conditions.

I have Trupanion...I started it when Vigo was a puppy and the cost is $35/month with a $150 deductible and they cover 90%. The price is going up to $40 and I have never used the plan, so I am debating on cancelling the policy. Worried about emergencies though!

What do you mean about not finding coverage? I thought pet insurance companies just don't allow the pre-existing conditions, but pay for everything else?

Also, how is Trupanion's return for your costs?

Just my 2 cents. Most insurance companies do not cover pre-
existing conditions. It is why I recommend getting it when the dog is a
young puppy, so everything is covered.

If you could find a policy that covered everything it would be very expensive.

Melissa, your plan still sounds good to me, 90% is great!

I have a middle of the road coverage $62 for two dogs, and it is 80%
coverage. My female does have inhalant allergies that are not covered
due to "pre- existing" but it has paid off really well when she suffered a freak
accident, and acquired FCE, which she is covered for.

To the OP, I would just start a savings account specifically for your dog.
Insurance will likely only cover the things not pre existing.

Eta, there are all types of policies. I prefer myself to have coverage for the big things, those are what cost so much. I don't mind paying for routine things.
But I like the peace of mind knowing the major medical costs will be covered.
The company I use is Pet's Best. Their turn around is under 10 days.
I have been very happy with them.

Ben, you are a man of so few words

How about putting that 35/40/50 dollars away every month. For the average dog I'm betting you can pay the bills and have pocket money left over especially after you figure in all the money spent on things not covered.

 Quote: Bob Scott

How about putting that 35/40/50 dollars away every month. For the average dog I'm betting you can pay the bills and have pocket money left over especially after you figure in all the money spent on things not covered.

Exactly. There are very very few breeds that make Insurance a realistic and worthwhile choice. It's good for health catastrophes but that's why I have my pet-expense savings account and a low balance on my credit card. I also can't afford insurance on 4 dogs as a student. It's just not going to happen so I put away what I can and they have their own little pillow if something should happen.

If you're talking something like a Frenchie, than yeah, odds are it's going to pay for itself with some major surgery but average relatively healthy pets... not so much.

I guess I should be more specific - I mean finding coverage without paying an arm and a leg.

I am not sure about Trupanion's return, because over $500 later in monthly dues, I have never needed to use it! That's a good thing, but I look at the amount spent and it bums me out because I could have used that money for his spring physical exam and heartworm test/meds, plus his neuter expense!