Does Pet Insurance Cover IVDD? A Complete Guide

Did you know this interesting fact that dogs have more bones in their spine than humans? This extra flexibility helps them run fast and twist quickly, but it also makes breeds with long backs more vulnerable to IVDD. Dachshunds, Beagles, and Corgis are more prone to IVDD because of their long backs and short legs.

If you are a proud pet parent, ensure you purchase pet insurance for your four-legged pal. In case of a condition like IVDD, veterinary expenses can be difficult to manage without a pet insurance policy from Bajaj General Insurance.

What is IVDD?

The full form of IVDD is Intervertebral Disc Disease. IVDD is a condition in dogs that happens when the discs in your dog’s spine bulge or slip, and this action exerts pressure on the spinal cord. Think of the discs like soft cushions between the bones in your dog’s back. When the discs get damaged, it will be painful for your dog to walk.

Long-backed dogs like Dachshunds, Corgis, and Beagles are at higher risk of IVDD. There are two main types of IVDD:

• Type I (Acute): Disc rupture happens suddenly.
• Type II (Chronic): Discs degenerate gradually and is more common in larger breeds.

Symptoms of IVDD

If you notice any of these symptoms, visit a vet immediately as early treatment can help to prevent permanent damage and may also help in the recovery faster. The symptoms of IVDD are:

• Back or neck pain: Your dog may yelp, whine, or act uncomfortable when touched.
• Weakness in legs: Dogs may drag their legs or have trouble standing.
• Loss of coordination: Your pet may find it difficult to coordinate the movements and may stumble or walk differently.
• Difficulty walking or standing: In severe cases, your dog may not be able to walk or move at all.
• Loss of bladder or bowel control: In extreme situations, your dog could even experience a loss of bladder or bowel control.

Tips to Reduce the Risk of IVDD

It may not be possible to completely prevent IVDD, but you can still take care of your dog’s spine in many ways. You should keep your dog at a healthy weight, because extra weight puts stress on their back. Try to prevent high jumps, as stairs or furniture can be risky for their spine. Make your dog exercise regularly and provide soft and supportive bedding, which protects your dog’s back while they sleep.

Does Pet Insurance Cover IVDD?

Yes, many pet insurance plans do cover IVDD, but it depends on the type of policy you choose and what it includes. Accident and illness coverage plans will pay for IVDD if your dog is diagnosed with IVDD and treated for the condition. The pet insurance plan will cover vet visits, medications, surgeries, and hospital stays.

If your dog needs to be operated or a surgery is required for a slipped or ruptured disc, insurance can cover part or all of the cost. After surgery, some vets may suggest that your dog undergo therapy treatment. The good news is that some insurance policies also include coverage for these treatments.

That said, it’s important to know that pre-existing conditions are not covered. This means if your dog already showed symptoms of IVDD before you bought the insurance, the policy won’t pay for treatments related to it.

Whenever you purchase an insurance policy, read the policy terms and exclusions carefully to understand what is and is not covered. If you understand all clauses and terms thoroughly, it will help you to plan better.

Coverage for IVDD

Your pet insurance covers the following:

• Veterinary Consultation and Diagnostics: Pet insurance covers vet visits, physical examinations, and diagnostic tests like X-rays, MRI, or CT scans needed to find the exact problem in the spine.
• Medications: Insurance can cover the cost of prescribed medicines, such as painkillers, anti-inflammatories, or muscle relaxants, which are necessary to manage the symptoms of IVDD.
• Surgery Costs: If your dog needs surgery for a ruptured or slipped disc, insurance may pay for surgical procedures, anaesthesia, and hospitalisation.
• Hospitalisation and In-Clinic Care: If your dog needs to stay in the veterinary clinic for observation or recovery, pet insurance plans cover the cost of boarding and nursing.
• Rehabilitation and Therapy: After treatment, your dog may need physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, or special exercises to regain strength and mobility. Some pet insurance plans cover these plans.
• Emergency Care: If IVDD symptoms appear suddenly, insurance can cover emergency vet visits and urgent treatments required to prevent permanent damage.
• Optional Add-ons: You can opt for add-ons like alternative therapies, acupuncture, or chiropractic care, which may help dogs with back problems.

However, always remember that coverage varies by plan. Pre-existing conditions, age limits, deductibles, or exclusions may be applicable and may affect the coverage or sum insured.

Conclusion

So, does pet insurance cover IVDD? Yes, pet insurance covers surgery, hospitalisation, and medical costs related to IVDD if the condition is not pre-existing. The best way to protect, love, and take care of your dog is to purchase a pet insurance policy from Bajaj General Insurance. Get a policy when your dog is still healthy and secure your peace of mind.

FAQs

1. Does pet insurance cover IVDD surgery?

Yes, pet insurance covers IVDD surgery if IVDD is not a pre-existing condition.

2. How soon after buying Bajaj General Pet Insurance can I claim for IVDD?

There’s a waiting period for illness-related claims. After the waiting period is over, you can claim for IVDD. However, for accident induced IVDD conditions, there is no waiting period.

3. Will physiotherapy after IVDD surgery be covered?

Yes, if physiotherapy is part of post-surgery care within the covered period and is subject to your opted sum insured, it will be covered.

4. Is IVDD considered a congenital defect?

If the IVDD condition is present from birth, it may be considered congenital. In such cases, it will be excluded if detected early in the policy term.

5. Can older dogs get coverage for IVDD?

Yes, but dogs over 4 years (giant breeds) or 7 years (small/medium/large breeds) face stricter conditions and may need medical tests at policy inception.

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***Disclaimer: The content on this page is generic and shared only for informational and explanatory purposes. It is based on several secondary sources on the internet and is subject to changes. Please consult an expert before making any related decisions.