Best Pet Insurance For Shetland Sheepdogs: Quote, Cost & More
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Known for their boundless energy and sharp intellect, Shetland Sheepdogs are a breed apart. As a Sheltie owner, you understand the importance of nurturing their physical and mental well-being. But what about their healthcare needs? From hereditary conditions to routine care and emergencies, owning a Sheltie means being prepared for various health-related expenses. Whether your Sheltie is a sprightly puppy or a wise senior, the right insurance plan can make all the difference in managing their health and well-being. In this article, we look at the data to determine if getting pet insurance for your Shelties is worth it and explore the top pet insurance options that fit your budget and offer comprehensive coverage for your Sheltie’s unique health requirements. Let’s go!
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Best Shetland Sheepdogs Pet Insurance — At A Glance
Best Overall
Best Personalized
Best No-Cap Payouts
Healthy Paws
Great for covering major
medical or ongoing expenses.
Beneficial for high-risk breeds.
What Is Shetland Sheepdogs Pet Insurance: Pet insurance is a healthcare policy that provides coverage for your pet, offering reimbursement for specific veterinary expenses. This ensures that your savings remain secure despite unforeseen medical costs. Such a policy involves a monthly premium. Should your pet fall ill or sustain an injury, you would file a claim with the insurance company to recoup your expenses.
The monthly premium for Shelties pet insurance
$26 to $55
How Much Does Pet Insurance Cost For Shetland Sheepdogs?
The insurance cost for a Sheltie dog will vary based on several factors, including the pet’s existing health conditions, sex, age, and the area you reside in. It’s important to remember that with the progression of veterinary technology and increased claims within your locality, your insurance premiums may rise. For example, even if your Sheltie is quoted at $55 per month, this rate is not fixed and could change.
According to our research, plans for Shelties can range from $26 to $55. You may spend more or less depending on where you live, the deductible rate and the reimbursement percentage you choose. Sheltie dog owners can expect to pay an average $39 monthly premium.
Pet Insurance Quotes For Shetland Sheepdogs
We compared quotes from renowned pet insurance providers to estimate your expected average monthly premium for different life stages in Shetland Sheepdogs.
| Company | Deductible | Reimbursement | Annual Reimbursement Limit | Monthly Price | Location | Gender | Breed | Age |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lemonade | $500 | 70% | $100,000 | $26.50 | SC, 29044 | Male | Shetland Sheepdog | 6 years |
| Spot | $500 | 70% | Unlimited | $48.79 | SC, 29044 | Male | Shetland Sheepdog | 6 years |
| Healthy Paws | $500 | 70% | Unlimited | $41.25 | SC, 29044 | Male | Shetland Sheepdog | 6 years |
| Lemonade | $500 | 70% | $100,000 | $28.76 | CA, 95842 | Female | Shetland Sheepdog | 2 year |
| Spot | $500 | 70% | Unlimited | $55.16 | CA, 95842 | Female | Shetland Sheepdog | 2 year |
| Healthy Paws | $500 | 70% | Unlimited | $33.70 | CA, 95842 | Female | Shetland Sheepdog | 2 year |
| Lemonade | $500 | 70% | $100,000 | $25.45 | TX, 75219 | Female | Shetland Sheepdog | 6 months |
| Spot | $500 | 70% | Unlimited | $52.78 | TX, 75219 | Female | Shetland Sheepdog | 6 months |
| Healthy Paws | $500 | 70% | Unlimited | $36.59 | TX, 75219 | Female | Shetland Sheepdog | 6 months |
Sheltie puppy monthly cost: $38
Adult Sheltie monthly cost: $40
Senior Sheltie monthly cost: $39
Is Pet Insurance For Shetland Sheepdogs Worth it?
The decision to purchase pet insurance for your Sheltie hinges on various factors, including your pet’s health risk proclivity, tolerance for financial risk, and overall financial circumstances.
Consider a scenario where your Sheltie falls seriously ill or suffers an injury from an accident, incurring veterinary bills in the thousands. On average, the most common dog treatments cost $254.[1] A more severe and common condition in Sheltie, like Hip Dysplasia, can cost between $1,500 and $6,000 to diagnose and treat. Can you pay for an unexpected $6,000 veterinary bill out-of-pocket? Most people can’t. The Federal Reserve states that 40% of Americans don’t have enough savings to cover a $400 emergency and 57% of U.S. adults cannot afford a $1,000 emergency expense.[2]
Investing in pet insurance for your Sheltie is a wise choice to protect your finances and ensure your dog can receive the necessary care. With pet insurance, should an unexpected accident or illness occur, you could be reimbursed for 70% to 100% of the veterinary costs, depending on the details of your plan and provider. Pet insurance gives peace of mind, knowing your finances and pet’s health are covered.
Predict & Protect Your Shetland Sheepdog’s Future Health
Canine Bible uses years of clinical health findings, pet insurance data points, trends, and surveys to identify common health conditions in dogs. By gaining insight into your Sheltie’s potential future health issues and risks, you can take preventive action today and ensure that your Sheltie does not become a part of these statistics.
1 in 3
dogs will need emergency veterinary treatment every year.
$250 to $8K
is the average cost of unexpected veterinary care for dogs.[3]
180
Sheltie dog parents seek health advice every month.
13.6%
of Shelties carry the gene linked with von Willebrand disease.[4]
If you know your dog’s breed is predisposed to certain health issues, we strongly advise getting a pet insurance policy while your dog is still healthy. Chronic health conditions, emergencies, and vet visits can rack up costs throughout your Sheltie’s life. Pet Insurance can spare you a lot of financial trouble.
Dogs that develop chronic conditions under pet insurance coverage are guaranteed reimbursement for these issues for the duration of their life.Most Common Health Conditions In Shetland Sheepdogs
Cost to treat von willebrand disease
This is a blood clotting disorder, similar to hemophilia in humans. Caused by a deficiency of the von Willebrand clotting factor, it leads to excessive bleeding even from minor injuries. The condition is hereditary, making responsible breeding essential to reduce its prevalence.
*The overall cost of diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries may vary. The above cost is based on average veterinary vet bill reports and claims submitted by pet insurance policyholders. We’ve used a 90% reimbursement rate for this scenario.
Cost to treat hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland underproduces hormones, leading to symptoms like lethargy, weight gain, skin issues, and fur thinning. It’s commonly treated with hormone replacement therapy.
*The overall cost of diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries may vary. The above cost is based on average veterinary vet bill reports and claims submitted by pet insurance policyholders. We’ve used a 90% reimbursement rate for this scenario.
Cost to treat epilepsy
Epilepsy in Shelties is a neurological condition characterized by recurrent seizures, which can range from mild, barely noticeable episodes to severe convulsions. The cause is often genetic, making it a hereditary issue within the breed. Managing epilepsy typically involves long-term medication to control seizures and regular veterinary monitoring.
*The overall cost of diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries may vary. The above cost is based on average veterinary vet bill reports and claims submitted by pet insurance policyholders. We’ve used a 90% reimbursement rate for this scenario.
Cost to treat hip dysplasia
Hip dysplasia involves abnormal development of the hip joint, leading to looseness and instability. This genetic disorder is exacerbated by rapid growth, obesity, and environmental factors. Symptoms include limping, difficulty in movement, and arthritis.
*The overall cost of diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries may vary. The above cost is based on average veterinary vet bill reports and claims submitted by pet insurance policyholders. We’ve used a 90% reimbursement rate for this scenario.
Cost to treat atopic dermatitis
This breed frequently develops atopic dermatitis, an inflammatory skin condition triggered by environmental allergens. It results in itching, redness, and chronic discomfort. The causes include allergens like pollen, dust mites, and molds, leading to excessive scratching and potential skin infections.
*The overall cost of diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries may vary. The above cost is based on average veterinary vet bill reports and claims submitted by pet insurance policyholders. We’ve used a 90% reimbursement rate for this scenario.
Cost to treat cardiomyopathy
Cancer in dogs is the abnormal growth of cells in their body, often leading to tumors. It can affect any organ, showing varied symptoms, and requires veterinary diagnosis and treatment.
*The overall cost of diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries may vary. The above cost is based on average veterinary vet bill reports and claims submitted by pet insurance policyholders. We’ve used a 90% reimbursement rate for this scenario.
Cost to treat perineal hernia
Perineal hernia in dogs involves the protrusion of abdominal contents near the rectum, often due to muscle weakness. Symptoms include difficulty defecating, swelling near the hindquarters, and discomfort. It’s more common in middle-aged to older males and typically requires surgical treatment.
*The overall cost of diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries may vary. The above cost is based on average veterinary vet bill reports and claims submitted by pet insurance policyholders. We’ve used a 90% reimbursement rate for this scenario.
Cost to treat cataracts
Cataracts in Shelties result in the lens of the eye becoming opaque, significantly impairing vision. Often hereditary, they can also arise from aging, diabetes, or eye injuries. Initially, cataracts may cause slight visual disturbances but can progress to blindness. Surgical removal is the primary treatment to improve sight.
*The overall cost of diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries may vary. The above cost is based on average veterinary vet bill reports and claims submitted by pet insurance policyholders. We’ve used a 90% reimbursement rate for this scenario.
Cost to treat deafness
In Shelties, deafness can be present from birth or acquired later. Hereditary deafness is associated with genes affecting pigmentation, while acquired cases may result from infections or age-related degeneration. These dogs might show inattentiveness to auditory cues. Confirming deafness involves auditory tests, and adapting training methods is key for managing it.
*The overall cost of diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries may vary. The above cost is based on average veterinary vet bill reports and claims submitted by pet insurance policyholders. We’ve used a 90% reimbursement rate for this scenario.
Cost to treat progressive retinal atrophy
Progressive Retinal Atrophy in dogs is a genetic disorder leading to the gradual deterioration of the retina, resulting in vision loss and potentially blindness. Early signs include night blindness and dilated pupils. There’s no cure, but affected dogs often adapt well to their limited vision in a safe, consistent environment.
*The overall cost of diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries may vary. The above cost is based on average veterinary vet bill reports and claims submitted by pet insurance policyholders. We’ve used a 90% reimbursement rate for this scenario.
Cost to treat patellar luxation
Patellar luxation in Shelties involves the dislocation of the kneecap from its normal position. This condition, often genetic, can cause lameness or an abnormal gait. Factors like trauma or congenital defects contribute to its development. Severity varies, potentially leading to arthritis or reduced mobility in affected dogs.
*The overall cost of diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries may vary. The above cost is based on average veterinary vet bill reports and claims submitted by pet insurance policyholders. We’ve used a 90% reimbursement rate for this scenario.
Cost to treat Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease
Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease in Shelties is characterized by the deterioration of the femoral head in the hip joint. This occurs due to inadequate blood supply, leading to bone necrosis. Common in young, small breeds, it causes limping, joint stiffness, and pain, significantly impacting mobility and quality of life.
*The overall cost of diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries may vary. The above cost is based on average veterinary vet bill reports and claims submitted by pet insurance policyholders. We’ve used a 90% reimbursement rate for this scenario.
Cost to treat obesity
Obesity is a significant concern in Shelties, primarily caused by overfeeding and lack of exercise. This excess weight puts strain on the dog’s body, leading to joint problems, diabetes, and reduced lifespan. Proper diet and regular exercise are crucial for prevention.
*The overall cost of diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries may vary. The above cost is based on average veterinary vet bill reports and claims submitted by pet insurance policyholders. We’ve used a 90% reimbursement rate for this scenario.
Why Get Pet Insurance For Shetland Sheepdogs?
Benefits For Shetland Sheepdogs
Benefits For Owners
How to Pick The Best Shetland Sheepdogs Pet Insurance
Best Pet Insurance For Shetland Sheepdogs
1. Best Overall Shetland Sheepdog Pet Insurance
Lemonade
Who It’s For: Excellent for Sheltie parents seeking the best all-around comprehensive coverage for accidents & illness at a value price.
Why we picked and recommended it: We named Lemonade our best overall pet insurance for Shelties for its comprehensive coverage, pricing, availability, and customer service. Lemonade premiums usually start at just $10 monthly, the lowest in the industry. We ran a few quotes for a healthy Sheltie at a $500 deductible and 70% coverage to estimate your monthly premium. Based on our research, you can expect to pay between $25 and $29 monthly. We love that Lemonade is tech-forward, making it easy to manage your policy and file claims through an app. Their plans cover accidents and illnesses, including injuries, poisonings, broken bones, sprains, infections, general sicknesses, cancer, heart disease, hip dysplasia, hernias, skin conditions and more. They also offer several add-ons to help pet owners pay for exam fees, physical therapy, and preventive care.
2. Best Personalized Shetland Sheepdog Pet Insurance
Spot
Who It’s For: Spot Pet Insurance is ideal for Sheltie dog owners who want the most flexibility when customizing their policy to fit their budget and coverage needs.
Why we picked and recommended it: Spot Pet Insurance offers seven annual limit options, three reimbursement levels, and five annual deductibles. They offer the lowest deductible in the industry ($100), meaning that when your Sheltie gets sick, you pay less upfront before your plan starts paying. With so many customization options, this company is our top pick for finding a plan for meeting your specific financial needs and those of your pet. Spot’s policies also cover some items, such as exam fees and microchipping, that many other pet insurance providers don’t offer. They also have one of the cheapest plans for accident-only coverage, making it perfect for pet owners who only need minimal coverage. We ran a few quotes for a healthy Sheltie at a $500 deductible and 70% coverage, based on our research, you can expect to pay between $48 and $55, but prices may vary depending on your location, Sheltie’s age, and other factors. Spot covers you when your Sheltie gets hurt unexpectedly, from tooth extractions and torn ligaments to surgery and hospitalizations.
3. Best No-Cap Payout Shetland Sheepdog Pet Insurance
Healthy Paws
Who It’s For: With no financial cap, it’s ideal for covering major medical or ongoing expenses such as chronic conditions. Beneficial for high-risk breeds such as Shelties.
Why we picked and recommended it: Healthy Paws offers the benefit of no cap payout, meaning there’s no maximum limit on the amount they will pay, which is particularly advantageous for severe conditions or chronic diseases that require ongoing, expensive treatments. With no financial cap, you can choose the best treatments for your pet. This can include access to advanced medical procedures, specialized surgeries, or cutting-edge treatments that might otherwise be prohibitively expensive. Additionally, Healthy Paws stands out for its quick claim processing, typically paying 99% of claims in two days, notably faster than many competitors. We ran a quote for a healthy Sheltie at a $500 deductible with 70% coverage. Depending on your location, pet’s age, and other factors, you can expect to pay between $33 and $41. Healthy Paws insurance plans cover accidents and illnesses, cancer, emergency care, genetic conditions, alternative care, etc. They have competitive premium prices and fewer coverage exclusions.
Types of Pet Insurance Coverage For Shetland Sheepdogs
There are two main types of pet insurance plans.
What Does Pet Insurance Not Cover?
When choosing pet insurance for your Sheltie, reviewing and understanding your policy’s exclusions is important.
Exclusions vary based on the pet insurance company and the policy you choose. Be sure to review the list of exclusions before purchasing pet insurance to confirm that your Sheltie is adequately covered by the plan you select and help prevent surprises in the future.
Pet Insurance For Shetland Sheepdog Puppies
Should you get pet insurance for your Sheltie puppy? Here are the top reasons you should consider Sheltie puppy insurance.
Average Cost of Shetland Sheepdog Vet Bills
This is what you will pay out-of-pocket on average if you don’t have pet insurance or a wellness plan.
Average Cost of Typical Vet Procedures
| Typical Vet Procedure | Average Cost of Procedure |
|---|---|
| Puppy vaccinations | $75 - $100 |
| Flea & tick prevention | $40 - $200 |
| Heartworm prevention | $24 - $120 |
| Spay or neuter surgery | $200 - $800 |
| Annual exam | $240 - $600 |
| Teeth cleaning | $200 - $500 |
| Microchip | $40 |
Average Cost of Emergency Vet Procedures
| Typical Vet Procedure | Average Cost Of Procedure |
|---|---|
| General consultation/exam | $100 - $150 |
| General bloodwork | $80 - $200 |
| X-rays | $150 - $250 |
| Ultrasound | $300 - $600 |
| 1-2 day hospitalization | $600 - $1,700 |
| 3-5 days holspitalization | $1,500 - $3,500 |
| Wound treatment & repair | $800 - $1,500 |
| Emergency surgery | $800 - $2,500 |
| Oxygen therapy | 500 |
Sources: 5 & 6
Factors That Impact the Cost of Your Shetland Sheepdog Pet Insurance Policy
Deductibles, co-pays & coverage limits
The lower the amount you pay out of pocket for your pet’s care, the higher your insurance premium will be. For instance, selecting a deductible of $300 instead of $800 means you’ll get reimbursed quicker for your pet’s care, but it also leads to higher premium payments.
Breed
Certain breeds are prone to congenital health issues. For example, breeds such as Shetland Sheepdogs often struggle with cancer and bloat. These breed tendencies could influence your pet insurance expenses.
Location
Local veterinary care expenses are taken into account by pet insurance companies when setting the price of your policy.
Pet’s Age
Older pets generally face more health problems, which results in higher insurance premiums because there is a higher risk for the insurance company.
Understand Insurance Policy Basics
How Does Shetland Sheepdog Pet Insurance Work?
Imagine your Sheltie’s pet insurance policy has the following terms:
Now, let’s say your Sheltie incurs a veterinary bill of $2,000 for medical treatment.
This example assumes you haven’t yet met your deductible for the year. If you’ve already met your annual deductible, you won’t have to pay again for this or any new claims within the same policy year. And, since every claim you make contributes to your annual payout limit after the insurance company pays $1,440 for this claim, the remaining yearly payout limit is $15,000 – $1,440 = $13,560.
Frequently Asked Question
Shetland Sheepdog Pet Insurance — Conclusion
You may still be on the fence about whether to purchase pet insurance for your Shetland Sheepdog. Nevertheless, accidents happen and illnesses can strike at any time. The best way to protect your furry friend from expensive vet bills is with Sheltie pet insurance, but you should research and find the best policy. We recommend getting your dog covered as early as possible. We hope this article has helped you understand the basics of pet insurance and given you some ideas about what to look for when shopping around for coverage.
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Disclaimer: The details about insurance company offerings, including prices, availability, and contract specifics, can change at any time and are at the discretion of the insurance company. This website does not control these changes. The information provided here is for reference only. It is important to thoroughly read and understand your policy before signing up for a new insurance contract, as your situation may differ from the examples used in this article.
Sources
Canine Bible uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process and product review methodology to learn more about how we fact-check, test products, and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
- Breiner, B. (2023). Average Cost of Pet Insurance: 2023 Quotes. ValuePenguin.
- Gillespie, L. (2023, February 23). Bankrate’s Annual Emergency Fund Report. Bankrate.
- Healthy Paws Pet Insurance. (2019). 2019 Cost of Pet Health Care Report.
- Paw Print Genetics. (n.d.). Von Willebrand Disease III (Shetland Sheepdog Type) in the Shetland Sheepdog.
- Average Cost Of Emergency Vet Visits | Find Out What You Will Pay. (2020, March 19). Emergency Vets USA.
- Cost of Owning a Dog: From Initial Cost to Annual Essentials. (n.d.). The Dog People.
Canine Bible authorship represents the unified voice of our entire editorial team and our in-house veterinarians rather than a single author. Each article, blog post, and review published under the Canine Bible name undergoes a rigorous review process, involving all team members to guarantee accuracy and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research. This collaborative effort is an integral part of our editorial process and aligns with our four pillars of content creation. This approach ensures our content is backed by expert knowledge and factual information, offering our readers reliable, actionable, and trustworthy content.
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