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VPI Pet Insurance


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Why we are involved with the NCVEI
Veterinary Pet Insurance chose to support the NCVEI because we believe that indemnity pet insurance is one of the primary solutions to declining veterinary incomes. VPI Pet Insurance allows pet owners to accept more and better veterinary care by removing the economic roadblocks that prevent pets from receiving the necessary medical care. If incorporated on a widespread basis, VPI Pet Insurance can raise the level of income for all veterinarians, while providing better care for pets and preserving the human-animal bond.

Veterinary Pet Insurance is:
  • Good for the Pet
  • Good for the Pet Owner
  • Good for the Profession
History and Background
  • Founded in 1980 by veterinarians, Veterinary Pet Insurance (VPI) is the oldest, largest and number-one licensed pet medical insurance plan for dogs and cats, avians and exotics in the United States.
  • Based in California, VPI Pet Insurance plans for dogs, cats, birds, and exotic pets are approved in all 50 states plus the District of Columbia.
  • VPI is a privately-held company. Many of its shareholders are independent veterinarians. Scottsdale Insurance Company, a subsidiary of Nationwide Insurance, holds a majority interest in the company.
  • Since its inception, more than one million VPI Pet Insurance policies have been issued, with a renewal rate of 75 percent.
  • Policies in California are underwritten by Veterinary Pet Insurance Co., Brea, California. Outside of California, policies are underwritten by National Casualty Company, an A+ 15 rated company in Madison, Wisconsin.
Vision and Mission Statement
  • We are the trusted choice of America's pet lovers.
  • Empowering pet owners to make optimal healthcare decisions for their pets.
Coverage
  • Policies cover thousands of medical problems and conditions for accidents and illnesses, with optional coverage available for preventive and routine care and enhanced cancer coverage.
  • Pet owners can visit any licensed veterinarian, veterinary specialist or animal hospital in the world.
  • VPI Pet Insurance helps pay for office calls, prescriptions, treatments, lab fees, X-rays, surgeries, and hospitalization for covered medical problems.
  • Policies cover dogs and cats from six weeks of age and older. There is no maximum age limit. Rates for dogs and cats are based on the species, age of the pet, state of residence, and the plan type selected. Birds are insured from three months of age and older, and must be in the owner's possession for a minimum of sixty days. Rates are based on the size of the bird.
Industry
  • As of 2004, there were 73.9 million dogs and 90.5 million cats in the U.S.
  • There were more than 16.6 million birds, of which 2.6 million were kept as pets.
  • 81.2 million American households own a cat or dog.
  • 6.4 million households own birds:
    • 65% own one bird and a dog;
    • 49% own one bird and a cat;
    • 20% own one bird and a small animal;
    • 20% own one bird and a reptile.
  • Close to 90% of pet owners took their dog to the veterinarian during a 12-month span.
  • The average number of veterinarian visits for dog owners in a year is 2.8 visits.
  • The average number of veterinarian visits for cat owners in a year is 2.3 visits.
(Source: 2005-2006 APPMA National Pet Owners Survey).

From minor problems to life-threatening situations, VPI Pet Insurance makes necessary care and high-tech treatments more affordable. Thousands of medical problems and conditions are covered, including the examples shown below.

Veterinary Pet Insurance Coverage Examples for Dogs
  • Ear infections
    		•
  • Diabetes
    		•
  • Skin rashes
    		•
  • Respiratory problems
    		•
  • Accidents (lacerations, poisoning,
    fractures, sprains, fight wounds)
  • Gastric Torsion (bloat)
    		•
  • Gastrointestinal upsets causing
    diarrhea and/or vomiting
  • Heart conditions
    		•
  • Cancer
    		•
  • Kidney and bladder infections
    		•
  • Parvovirus
    		•
  • Eye Infections
    		•


    Veterinary Pet Insurance Coverage Examples for Cats
  • Leukemia
    		•
  • Accidents
    		•
  • Abscesses
    		•
  • Cancer
    		•
  • Bladder infections and Feline
    Urological Syndrome (FUS)
  • Heart conditions
    (i.e., Cardiomyopathy)
  • Liver disease
    		•
  • Respiratory Infections
    		•


    Veterinary Pet Insurance Coverage Examples for Birds
  • Feather Picking
    		•
  • Respiratory Problems
    		•
  • Gastrointestinal Problems
    		•
  • Vague Illnesses
    		•


    Information for Veterinarians:

    http://vets.petinsurance.com

    866-VET-4VPI (866-838-4874)

    Media contacts: