What is the difference between Pet Health Plans and Pet insurance
- Therese Wright
- Apr 24
- 4 min read
Hi Everyone 👋
We get asked this question a lot, so we've done our best to put it simply: What’s the difference between Pet Insurance and Pet Health Plans and what can I save? (see examples below ⬇️).
Unfortunately, unlike human healthcare, there is no equivalent Public Health Service for pets—No medical cards, no free emergency care or subsidies. That’s why many pet owners choose Pet Insurance and Pet Health Plans—to avoid financial decisions in stressful moments.
Pet Health Plans are different from insurance. They’re designed for routine, day-to-day preventative care, like vaccinations, flea/worming treatments, health checks as well as discounts on vet visits and much more. These plans cost per month; Rabbits €15, Reptiles €18, Dogs from €27, Cats €27 and help save on the vet cost - you can find more information here www.palmerstownvets.ie/health-plans
Pet Insurance helps cover unexpected veterinary costs, like accidents, illnesses, or surgeries. Depending on the policy, it may reimburse treatments, medications, and specialist care. Costs typically start from €7+ pm, depending on breed, age and coverage level. You can get instant quotes from companies such as Alliance www.allianz.ie or www.petinsurance.ie
Do I need both?
Another great question asked by our clients is if they need both. At PVH we recommend both Pet Health Plans and Pet Insurance to keep your vet bills down and maximise coverage, as they complement each other. Please remember, veterinary care is expensive and there will always be a certain amount to pay, but the savings are significant.
Benefits of Health PlansWhen it comes to Health Plans, we say, "Why Pay Full Price, When you Can Save Money on a Health Plan". These savings are on day-to-day costs that you will be doing anyway, such as:
Annual vaccinations and health checks
Veterinary-prescribed parasite treatments (which provide broader protection than over-the-counter options that cost €49 for 3 months without a plan, but is covered on Health Plans)
Three consultations per year for check-ups or health concerns
Annual health screening blood tests for early disease detection
Additional discounts on various veterinary services
You can see how quickly you can save hundreds of euros if you need to visit a vet for unexpected issues like a sudden illness, limping/mobility problems, or any other health concerns. There are other great discounts too included - check them here www.palmerstownvets.ie/health-plans
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Benefits of Insurance
Insurance is VITAL for those unexpected large costs such as major surgeries or chronic diseases (like skin allergies, diabetes, underactive thyroid, ear disease, etc.). It removes the financial worry when making decisions about treatment options for your pet.
Having insurance makes your pet's healthcare costs more manageable and covers costs of ongoing medications for chronic disease.
Costs are 2025 costs and are estimated costs. ********* Your dog swallows a toy and needs emergency surgery
Accidents & Emergency Care
Estimated Cost Without Insurance€1,500 - €3,000
With InsuranceYou could get 80-100% covered (depending on the policy), plus excess
With Health PlanYour initial visit to us would be covered, up to 3 times a year
Lifetime SavingsIf your pet has even one serious emergency, insurance can save thousands
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Your cat develops diabetes and requires lifelong insulin, check-ups, and blood tests
Chronic Illnesses (Common in older pets)
Estimated Cost Without Insurance€100-150 per month
With InsuranceMany policies cover chronic conditions, meaning you might only pay the excess
With Health PlanYour initial visit to us would be covered, up to 3 times a year
Lifetime Savings€5,000+ over 3+ years
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A rabbit develops a tumour and needs surgery/post-op care
Cancer Treatment
Estimated Cost Without Insurance€1,500 - €3,500With InsuranceExotic pet insurance can cover a significant portion
With Health PlanYour initial visit to us would be covered, up to 3 times a year
Lifetime Savings€2,000+ depending on the treatment plan *********
Vaccinations
Important for pets who go outdoors
Estimated Cost Without Insurance
Up to €145 for a vaccination course
With Insurance
Insurance does not cover vaccinations
With Health Plan100% annual vaccinations are covered under Health Plans
Lifetime Savings
€1,500+ over typical pet lifetime
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Parasites (Fleas, Ticks, Worms)
Important for pets who go outdoors
Estimated Cost Without a Health Plan
€16/month for treatment
With Insurance
Insurance does not cover parasite treatment
With Health Plan
100% of the parasite treatment cost is covered under Health Plans
Lifetime Savings Significant savings over 10-15 years
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Your bearded dragon develops metabolic bone disease (MBD) and requires vet care, supplements, and possible UVB therapy
Estimated Cost Without Insurance
€500 - €1,500
With Insurance
Exotic pet insurance may cover diagnostics, treatment, and supplements
With Health Plan
Vet visits are covered
Lifetime Savings
€1,000+ by avoiding costly long-term care
Final Thought
We all want our pets to stay happy and healthy, but just like us humans, they sometimes need extra care. To help make veterinary care more affordable and give you peace of mind, we recommend combining a Health Plan with an Insurance policy. This way, you can focus on giving your pet the care they deserve without worrying about unexpected costs.
We're always happy to chat about the options - just ask at your next visit or give us a call! 01 623 70 44 or click here to make an appointment
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