Most definitely! Pet insurance can go a long way to ease your dog’s anxiety. As a responsible pet owner, one of the things you should prioritize is providing your beloved animals with optimal care, particularly when they encounter issues such as anxiety. With a growing recognition of mental health concerns in pets, addressing your dog’s anxiety can contribute to a more joyful and healthier existence for your pet.
While pet insurance is commonly perceived as a financial safeguard against unforeseen medical costs, it can also be instrumental in managing treatments and therapies related to anxiety. If your dog is going through a difficult phase like anxiety, you will most likely not be at rest as well by virtue of ownership.
Can Pet Insurance Ease Your Dog’s Anxiety?
If humans can experience anxiety at some point in their lives, then pets are not an exception. Pet insurance can help ease your dog’s anxiety, as it helps cover the cost of diagnosis and treatment. If your dog is suffering from anxiety, your pet insurance can cover the cost of paying for treatment and other related expenses.
The good news is that some insurance companies offer pet insurance plans that provide coverage for anxiety medication and behavioral disorders. Your policy will ultimately serve as a safe place for your dog till it gets cured of its anxiety. If you realize your pet is always anxious and you’re probably wondering how to go about it, get pet insurance and speak to your insurer if they provide coverage for dog anxiety.
Symptoms of Dog Anxiety
First of all, it is important to establish that not all pets are the same. The symptoms your dog may show for anxiety can slightly differ from another dog. It all depends on the type of anxiety and its severity. Nevertheless, here are common symptoms of dog anxiety.
- Aggressiveness
- Destructive behavior
- Trembling
- Loss of appetite
- Restlessness and pacing around
- Panting or drooling
- Urinating and defecating indoors
- Overreacting when in contact with someone or another animal
- Holding the ears back
- Whining or barking excessively.
As mentioned before, symptoms of dog anxiety vary among dogs. Sometimes, it can be easier to easily notice when your dog is experiencing anxiety; other times, it may be difficult. Ensure you pay close attention to your dog always in order to be able to detect changes in its behavior that may show anxiety.
Common Reasons Why Dogs Get Anxious
There are several things that can cause dog anxiety, and in most cases, past trauma is a major factor.
- Changes in routine
- Change in environment
- Abandonment
- Separation from the family
- Neglect or abuse
- Fear instilled by people and other animals
- Loud noises, like thunderstorms or fireworks
- Aging or Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS)
- Travel or car riders
- health issues or pain
Pet Insurance Companies and Their Coverage for Anxiety Treatments
There are several pet insurance companies that offer plans specifically to meet the needs of anxious dogs. Here’s a table that gives an illustration of pet insurance companies and the type of coverage they offer:
| Company | Prescription Medication | Behavioral Modification | Obedience Training | Alternative Therapies | Pre-Existing Conditions | Holistic Care |
| Lemonade | Yes | Add-on | No | Add-on | No | No |
| Pets Best | Add-on | No | No | No | No | No |
| ASPCA | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | No | No |
| Embrace | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
| MetLife | Yes | Add-on | No | Yes | No | Yes |
| Pumpkin | Yes | Yes | No | Add-on | No | No |
| Figo | Yes | Add-on | No | Add-on | No | Add-on |
| Prudent Pet | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | No | No |
| Fetch | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |
What Can I Do If My Dog Has Anxiety Issue?
If you realize your pet has an anxiety issue, one of the first steps you should take is purchasing pet insurance. If your pet is suffering from anxiety or any other behavioral disorder, pet insurance comprises different plans that provide coverage for your pet’s emotional wellbeing. Most importantly, pet owners are advised to know the body language of their pet. This would make it easier to detect when they are triggered by something or show symptoms of anxiety.
It is also important to consult with a veterinarian to see if the anxiety is caused by an underlying medical issue. If the anxiety was a result of a health issue or pain, working with a veterinarian is an ideal option. Your vet is in the best position to prescribe solutions that can help ameliorate your dog’s anxiety, such as giving medications, applying a calming vest, and therapies.
Additionally, it is imperative to teach your dog how to interact with others. Socializing is one of the important things you should teach your dogs, as exposure to people and places will make them move around freely without fear. Also, ensure that your dog does not lack attention and gets enough exercise. Some dogs exhibit anxiety due to feelings of neglect and abandonment.
Final Remark
In summary, pet insurance can be effective in reducing your dog’s anxiety by providing access to various effective treatments and interventions. With overage that includes behavioral therapies, medications, and veterinary consultations, pet insurance allows you to meet the mental health needs of your pet without stressing about unexpected expenses. If you notice your dog is showing symptoms of anxiety, speak to your vet and get additional protection through pet insurance.
