An old dog is a loyal companion who has often been by our side for many years. Even in old age, we want to offer them the best possible care. But many dog owners wonder whether it is even possible to insure their old dog. The answer is: Yes, you can insure older dogs too. However, there are some important aspects to consider in order to find the best insurance for your four-legged friend.
When is a dog old?
The question “When is a dog old?” cannot be answered in general terms, as the age of a dog depends on several factors. These include the breed, size and living conditions of the dog. In general, dogs are considered seniors from the age of seven, but there are differences between small and large dog breeds.
Age by Dog Breed and Size
Small dog breeds
Small dog breeds such as Chihuahuas or dachshunds often live longer than larger dog breeds. These dogs are usually not considered seniors until they are nine or ten years old. Due to their smaller size and slower metabolism, they often show signs of aging later.
Medium-sized dog breeds
Medium-sized dog breeds such as beagles or cocker spaniels typically reach an age of 12 to 15 years. These dogs are considered old from around eight years of age. At this age, the first signs of aging can appear, such as reduced mobility or gray hair.
Large dog breeds
Large dog breeds such as German Shepherds or Golden Retriever have a shorter life expectancy than small or medium dog breeds. They are often considered seniors at the age of six or seven . Large dogs tend to age faster and can show early signs of aging such as joint problems or heart disease.
Very large dog breeds
Very large dog breeds such as St. Bernards or Great Danes have the shortest life expectancy among dogs. These dogs are often considered old at five or six years of age . Their size and weight put more strain on the body, which leads to earlier signs of aging.
Signs of Aging in Dogs
Regardless of breed, there are certain signs that indicate that a dog is aging. These include:
– Decreased mobility : Your dog moves more slowly and has difficulty getting up or climbing stairs.
– Weight changes : Aging dogs may gain or lose weight.
– Changes in coat : Grey hair and duller coat can be signs of age.
– Changed behavior : Older dogs sleep more, are less active and may show behavioral changes such as disorientation.
– Health problems : Age-related diseases such as arthritis, dental problems or heart disease are more common.
Age-Related Diseases in Dogs
Dogs are loyal companions and over time they too will grow older. With age often come certain health challenges. It is important to be aware of these age-related diseases in order to provide your dog with the best possible care.
arthritis
Arthritis is one of the most common conditions in older dogs. This degenerative joint disease leads to pain, stiffness and limited mobility . Large and heavy dog breeds are particularly prone to arthritis. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve your dog’s quality of life.
heart disease
As our pets get older, the risk of heart disease also increases . Symptoms such as coughing, difficulty breathing, fatigue and reduced resilience can indicate heart problems. Regular veterinary examinations are important to detect and treat heart disease early.
kidney disease
Chronic kidney disease is common in older dogs. Kidney function declines with age, leading to a buildup of toxins in the body. Symptoms include increased thirst, frequent urination, weight loss, and loss of appetite. A special diet and medication can slow the progression of the disease.
dental diseases
Dental diseases such as periodontitis are common in older dogs. Tartar build-up, gum inflammation and tooth loss can lead to pain and infections. Regular dental care and professional dental cleanings are crucial to keeping your beloved four-legged friend’s teeth in good health. It is a good idea to get younger dogs used to this.
diabetes
Older dogs are more susceptible to diabetes. Symptoms such as increased thirst, frequent urination, weight loss and increased hunger can indicate this disease. Early diagnosis and proper treatment, including insulin therapy and a special diet, are important for your dog’s well-being.
cancer
As dogs get older, their risk of various types of cancer increases. Tumors can appear in different parts of the body and cause different symptoms. Early detection through regular examinations increases the chances of successful treatment.
vision and hearing loss
Aging dogs can suffer from vision problems such as cataracts or hearing loss . These sensory losses can affect your dog’s behavior and quality of life. Regular veterinary check-ups help to identify these problems early and take appropriate measures.
dementia
Just like people, dogs can also suffer from dementia as they get older. Signs include confusion, changes in behavior, disorientation and reduced ability to react. An adapted environment and special care can make life easier for a dog with dementia.
Care and Support for Older Dogs
As your dog gets older, it is important to give him special care. Regular vet visits, an adapted Nutrition and moderate exercise can help maintain your dog’s quality of life. Provide a comfortable sleeping environment and support your dog in his daily activities.
A dog’s limitations and when the animal is considered a senior depend greatly on its breed, size and individual health. By considering the special needs of an older dog, you can help him live a happy and healthy life as he ages.
What is the GOT and what is it for?
The Veterinary Fee Schedule (GOT) is a central set of rules in Germany that regulates the billing of veterinary services. It serves to ensure transparent and fair remuneration for veterinary services and protects both veterinarians and animal owners.
Purpose of the GOT – Costs at the Veterinarian
The GOT ensures that veterinarians bill for their services at fixed prices, which ensures transparency and fairness. This allows pet owners to understand what costs are incurred for which services, which avoids misunderstandings and conflicts. The GOT also guarantees appropriate remuneration for veterinary services, which contributes to the quality of veterinary care. By paying fairly, veterinarians can provide the necessary resources to ensure high-quality care for animals.
Structure and Adaptation of the GOT
The GOT is divided into different sections, each describing different veterinary services and the corresponding fees, such as general examinations, surgical procedures, diagnostic measures, drug treatments, preventive measures and vaccinations. Each service is provided with a fee framework that specifies minimum and maximum rates. Veterinarians are allowed to set their fees within this framework, depending on factors such as the effort involved and individual circumstances.
Can you take out dog health insurance if the animal is sick?
If your dog is already ill, obtaining health insurance can be challenging. Many insurance companies refuse to cover animals with existing medical conditions or exclude those diseases from coverage. The fact that certain diseases and treatments are not covered by insurance can result in significant costs.
It is therefore advisable to insure your dog as early as possible , ideally before any health problems arise. Early insurance guarantees more comprehensive cover and often cheaper rates.
However, there are also special insurance policies that are tailored to older or already sick animals. In this case, existing illnesses are not an exclusion criterion. These insurance policies usually have higher premiums and limited benefits, but can still be a useful addition to financial protection. It is worth examining the various offers carefully and considering which insurance offers the best cover for your dog’s individual health condition.
What pet health insurance policies are available and until when can you insure your dog?
The range of pet health insurance policies is large and varied. Basically, you can choose between different types of insurance that vary in their coverage and costs. It is important to understand the different options in order to make the best decision for your dog.
Once your pet is insured with Santévet and the contract is active and renewed, it will enjoy lifelong insurance cover with no age limit. You can insure your puppy with us from the eighth week of life. If you want to insure an older dog, the age limit depends on the breed of dog. For some breeds, the age limit is 5 years, for others 7 years. For more detailed information on the age limit for taking out insurance, see the useful documents.
surgical insurance for dogs
One surgical insurance covers the cost of surgical procedures. This insurance is especially important if your dog needs an operation, which can be expensive. Surgical insurance usually covers the cost of the surgical procedure, anesthesia, aftercare and often the necessary medications.
Some surgical insurance policies also offer additional benefits such as coverage for diagnostic procedures related to the operation or overnight costs in a veterinary clinic. These additional benefits can make all the difference and should be considered when choosing insurance.
comprehensive health insurance for dogs
Full health insurance offers comprehensive protection and covers operations as well as other treatments such as examinations, medication, inpatient stays and preventive examinations. It is the most comprehensive form of dog health insurance and is suitable for dog owners who want to be on the safe side and cover all eventualities. Our dog health insurance is a full health insurance policy.
Comprehensive health insurance can be particularly useful for dogs with chronic illnesses or breeds that are prone to certain health problems. This insurance offers all-round coverage and allows the dog to receive the best possible medical care without having to worry about the costs.
Tariffs – what costs should you expect?
The cost of dog health insurance can vary greatly and depends on various factors, such as the age, breed and health of the dog, as well as the level of insurance chosen. It is important to consider these factors and compare the different offers carefully.
Prices for surgical protection
The cost of surgical insurance is usually between 10 and 30 euros per month. This insurance is comparatively cheap and still offers important protection against high surgical costs. Some insurance companies also offer different tariff levels that include additional services and are correspondingly more expensive.
When comparing surgical insurance policies, you should pay attention to the amount covered and possible deductibles. Some policies only cover part of the cost of the operation, while others offer full coverage. A higher deductible can reduce monthly premiums, but it also means that you will have to cover a larger portion of the costs yourself in the event of an operation.
tariffs for full insurance
Full health insurance is more expensive than surgical insurance. Monthly premiums can range from 30 to 80 euros . The exact price depends on individual factors and the chosen plan. Comprehensive coverage and additional services such as preventive examinations and vaccinations can increase costs, but also offer more comprehensive protection.
It is worth comparing different offers and checking the services carefully. Watch out for hidden costs and clauses in the contract that exclude certain treatments or limit the coverage. There are often waiting times that must be met before costs are covered. Transparent and comprehensive insurance offers the best protection for your dog and helps you avoid unforeseen veterinary costs.
In general, it is possible to insure older dogs and thus offer them the protection they need. Taking out insurance in good time can help avoid high veterinary costs and provide your loyal companion with the best possible care. By comparing the various insurance offers and understanding the benefits and costs, you can make the best decision for your dog and give him a healthy and happy life.