Learn how and why veterinary bills are increasing, and how a Healthy Paws plan can help.
Healthy Paws protects pets like family and makes peace of mind and more happy, healthy moments possible. Pet parents and industry reviews tell the story.
Rescue organizations across the U.S. received support for adoption efforts and ongoing care for vulnerable pets.
Make their food irresistible with the freshest nutritionally-balanced ingredients.
The Healthy Paws Community is a vibrant, social-first space for all pet lovers—whether you’re a Healthy Paws policyholder or simply passionate about pets. As a Pack Member, you can share your favorite pet photos and videos, connect with fellow pet parents, and stay informed with the latest Healthy Paws news and tips. It’s a welcoming place focused on connection, positivity, and celebrating the joy pets bring to our lives!
According to new research from Healthy Paws Pet Insurance and Money.com, which surveyed more than 1,500 cat and dog owners across the U.S., 77% of pet owners agree their animals are “like a child” to them.
What’s the difference between pet insurance and wellness plans?
Like dogs and cats, these two are totally different animals:
Pet Insurance covers unexpected expenses, like when your furry friend eats something they shouldn’t or gets injured. It can cover diagnostics, treatment, and medication that can add up fast. It does not cover routine care. Think of car insurance: It covers accidents, but not oil changes or car washes.
Wellness Plans cover the expected expenses, like annual checkups, vaccines, preventative care, spay/neuter, and even routine dental cleanings. Instead of paying one big bill at your pet’s yearly exam, a wellness plan spreads those predictable costs across the year.
What each plan covers:
Pet Insurance
Pet insurance covers veterinary costs to diagnose and treat unexpected injuries and illnesses. Examples: stomach issues, skin conditions, injuries, cancer, urinary tract infections, diabetes.
Wellness Plans
Wellness plans cover expected veterinary costs and routine care. Examples: exam fees, vaccinations, preventative care, dental cleanings, spay/neuter, microchipping.
Is a pet wellness plan worth it?
That depends on you and your pet. Some pet parents like them because they help spread out the cost of routine checkups and preventative care.
But here’s the thing: you might end up paying more for the plan than you get out of it. For example, spay/neuter or microchip benefits are one-time perks, and you may not use other services, like deworming, flea control, or heartworm testing. It can make more sense financially to simply budget for expected costs and get a pet insurance plan for those those big, unexpected vet bills.
Why doesn't Healthy Paws cover wellness?
Wellness = planned care
Things like annual exams, vaccines, and teeth cleanings are predictable and easy to budget for. We’re there for when life throws you the unexpected, not the routine stuff you can plan for.
It can actually cost you more
Wellness coverage raises your monthly premium, so you may end up paying more than the value you get back.
No “middleman” markup
By leaving wellness out, we keep premiums focused on what matters most — helping you afford care when your pet truly needs it.