Get the Best Pet Insurance in Oregon in 2024

Sponsored by Figo Pet Insurance

Are you living in Oregon and searching for the best pet insurance options for 2024? With so many choices available, it's important to understand what sets a good policy apart. Knowing these factors will help you find a plan that fits your budget and meets your pet's individual needs.

In this guide, we'll help you identify the best pet insurance for your furry friend. We’ll discuss the costs involved, compare top plans, and explain the specific laws and protections in Oregon. By the end, you'll be ready to choose the right coverage to keep your pet healthy and happy in the Beaver State.

Summary: Best Oregon Pet Insurance Ratings

AKC Pet Insurance

Best for pets with pre-existing conditions

Max Annual Coverage

Unlimited

Reimbursement Choices

70%, 80%, 90%

Deductible

$100-$1,000

ASPCA Pet Insurance

Best for wide-ranging coverage

Max Annual Coverage

Unlimited

Reimbursement Choices

70%, 80%, 90%

Deductible

$100-$500

Embrace

Best for flexible policy options

Max Annual Coverage

Unlimited

Reimbursement Choices

70%, 80%, 90%

Deductible

$100-$1,000

Felix

Best for cats

Max Annual Coverage

$15,000

Reimbursement Choices

70%, 80%, 90%

Deductible

$100-$500

Figo

Best for reimbursement options

Max Annual Coverage

Unlimited

Reimbursement Choices

70%, 80%, 90%

Deductible

$100-$750

Pets Best

Best for senior pets

Max Annual Coverage

Unlimited

Reimbursement Choices

70%, 80%, 90%

Deductible

$50-$1,000

Pumpkin

Best for puppies and kittens

Max Annual Coverage

Unlimited

Reimbursement Choices

90%

Deductible

$100-$1,000

Spot

Best for straightforward waiting periods

Max Annual Coverage

Unlimited

Reimbursement Choices

70%, 80%, 90%

Deductible

$100-$1,000

Comparison information is provided using publicly available information as of 08/16/2024 and is only meant to summarize program features, not a specific plan. Review the provider’s plan terms for more details. The description of the providers’ plans are not provided by that company. If you have questions about other plans, please contact an agent of that company. It is our intention to provide fair and accurate comparison information. We attempt to keep information up to date but it may change from time to time. If you are aware of any inaccuracies or changes in the information provided, let us know by emailing info@petplace.com.

How Much Does Pet Insurance Cost in Oregon?

According to our research, Oregon pet insurance costs an average of $43 per month. This gets you a plan with $5,000 in annual coverage, a $250 deductible, and an 80% reimbursement level. For unlimited annual coverage with the same deductible and reimbursement rate, it's $72 a month.

We calculated these figures by averaging the monthly costs from eight major pet insurance providers. To estimate typical expenses, we gathered quotes for a three-year-old, medium-sized, mixed-breed dog in two Oregon cities: Portland, a major urban center, and Albany, an average-sized city for the state.

It's important to note that your own Oregon pet insurance cost will depend on factors such as:

• Annual limit, deductible, and reimbursement level. These are the three primary components that determine your monthly premium. The annual limit is the maximum amount the policy will pay out in a year. The deductible is the amount you pay out-of-pocket before the insurance starts to cover costs. The reimbursement level is the percentage of the covered costs the insurance pays after the deductible. Generally, the higher the annual limit and reimbursement level, the more expensive the policy will be.
• Breed and gender. Some breeds are more prone to certain health conditions than others, which can impact the cost of insurance. Additionally, some insurers may charge different rates based on the gender of your pet.
• Your location. Where you live can affect the cost of pet insurance. Urban areas tend to have higher premiums due to the higher cost of veterinary care in cities.
• Your pet’s age. Just like with human insurance, the younger your pet is when you enroll them in a policy, the lower the premium will be. As they age, premiums may increase.

Additionally, there are other factors that can affect the cost of pet insurance, such as pre-existing conditions, your pet’s lifestyle, and whether you choose to add on any optional coverage. That's why it's vital to compare Oregon pet insurance plans carefully and choose a policy that suits your budget and your pet's individual needs.

Cost of Pet Insurance for Dogs in Oregon

According to our research, the average cost of pet insurance for a medium-sized mixed breed dog in Oregon is $43 per month*. This is based on a policy with $5,000 of annual pet insurance coverage, a $250 deductible, and an 80% reimbursement level. A policy offering unlimited annual coverage, with a deductible of $250 and an 80% reimbursement rate, costs $72 monthly.

Cost of Pet Insurance in Oregon by Dog Breed

According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), the three most popular dog breeds of 2023 in the U.S. were the French Bulldog, Labrador Retriever, and Golden Retriever. Here are the monthly pet insurance rates you can expect to pay for these breeds in Oregon:

Cost of Pet Insurance for Cats in Oregon

Pet insurance for cats is significantly cheaper than dog insurance in Oregon. The average monthly cost for cat insurance in Oregon ranges from $21 to $29, depending on factors such as age, annual coverage, breed, deductible, plan type, and reimbursement amount**.

Cost of Pet Insurance in Oregon by Cat Breed

In 2023, the three most popular cat breeds in the U.S. were the Ragdoll, Maine Coon Cat, and Persian, according to the Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA). Based on our analysis of Oregon pet insurance, here are the average monthly rates for these breeds:

Cost Comparison for Pet Insurance Companies in Oregon

Types of Pet Insurance Plans

Pet insurance companies offer policies that cover a wide range of issues, from accidents and illnesses to routine care. Here's an overview of the most common types of pet insurance plans:

Accident and Illness

Typically, this type of policy covers unexpected accidents and illnesses, such as broken bones, cancer, and infections. It generally includes diagnostic tests, x-rays, ultrasounds, exam fees, hospital stays, surgeries, and prescription medications.

Coverage may also extend to treatments like prosthetic devices, mobility aids, and, in some cases, alternative therapies such as acupuncture or chiropractic care. Coverage for behavioral issues and insurance for senior dogs and senior cats can vary between providers and might not always be included in the base plan, requiring add-ons or separate policies.

Accident Only

Accident-only pet insurance policies are typically the most affordable plans available, often covering injuries from accidents like cuts, broken bones, and sprains. This can include vet exams, diagnostic testing (x-rays, MRIs, ultrasounds), hospitalization (surgery and treatment), medications, and rehabilitation.

Wellness and Routine Care

Wellness and routine care plans help manage and offset the cost of preventive care to keep your pet healthy. These policies generally cover routine check-ups, vaccinations, dental cleanings, microchipping, deworming, spay/neuter surgeries, and flea and tick prevention. This type of coverage is often available as an optional add-on to an accident and illness policy.

Pre-Existing Conditions

Pet insurance providers traditionally do not cover pre-existing conditions, making this an essential factor for pet owners to consider when choosing a policy. A pre-existing condition is any health issue that your pet was diagnosed with or showed symptoms of before the start date of the insurance policy or during the waiting period.

However, some insurance companies distinguish between curable and incurable pre-existing conditions. For curable conditions, if your pet has been symptom-free and has not required treatment for a specific period – typically for 6 to 12 months before the policy start date – these conditions might then be eligible for coverage. In contrast, incurable conditions, such as chronic diseases or ongoing illnesses, are generally not covered at any point.

Review your sample policy from your provider for a full list of condition coverage and exclusions.

Reimbursement

Reimbursement rates dictate the percentage of the vet bill that will be paid back to you after you've met your deductible. Common reimbursement levels offered by pet insurance companies range from 70% to 90%. Keep in mind that higher reimbursement rates typically result in higher monthly premiums, so you'll need to find the right balance that works for your budget and needs.

Waiting periods are another vital component of pet insurance policies. They refer to the time between the start date of your policy and when coverage actually begins. Most pet insurance plans have a waiting period for both accidents and illnesses, which can range from a few days to several months.

Accidents usually have a shorter waiting period, often starting within 48 to 72 hours after the policy begins, while waiting periods for illnesses might last anywhere from 14 to 30 days or more. It's vital to note these periods because no claims can be made for accidents or illnesses that occur during the waiting period.

How to Find the Best Pet Insurance in Oregon

When exploring pet insurance options in Oregon, it's important to consider how living in the Beaver State might influence your pet's needs. Oregon's diverse landscapes and lifestyle can significantly impact what you should look for in a pet insurance policy.

Natural factors unique to Oregon can affect your pet's health and safety. For instance, the state's varied topography, from the coastal regions to the high desert, exposes pets to different environmental risks. The Cascade Mountains and dense forests can present hazards like steep terrain and wildlife encounters. Additionally, Oregon's rainy season, particularly in the western part of the state, can lead to mudslides and flooding, potentially causing accidents or injuries to your pet.

Oregon's wildlife, including cougars, black bears, and coyotes, can pose threats to pets, especially in rural and suburban areas. The state's diverse ecosystems also mean exposure to various parasites and diseases, making comprehensive health coverage important.

Oregon's climate varies significantly across regions, from the mild, wet conditions of the Willamette Valley to the drier, more extreme temperatures of eastern Oregon. These climatic differences can impact your pet's health in various ways, from increased risk of heat-related illnesses in the east to moisture-related skin conditions in the west.

While Oregon's cost of living is generally lower than some neighboring states like California and Washington, veterinary care expenses can still be substantial, particularly in urban areas like Portland. This makes it important to consider policies that offer expansive coverage for both routine care and emergencies.

Here are some important features to keep in mind when selecting the best pet insurance plan in Oregon:

• 24/7 vet helpline. Access to a round-the-clock veterinary helpline for immediate advice on emergency care or general health questions can be incredibly valuable, especially in a state like Oregon, where natural disasters and wildlife can pose potential risks.
• Direct vet payments. Some insurance providers offer the option to pay your vet bills directly, so you don't have to pay out of pocket and wait for reimbursement.
• Wellness routine care coverage. Choosing a policy that offers wellness and routine care coverage can help offset the costs of preventive care.
• Waiting periods. Consider the waiting periods for accidents and illnesses to ensure you understand when coverage will begin.
• Vet exam fees coverage. Although veterinary costs in Oregon are not as high as in some other states, having coverage for exam fees can still lead to significant savings over time.
• Multi-pet discount. If you have multiple pets, look for providers that offer discounts for insuring more than one pet.

Oregon Pet Laws

Oregon takes pride in its comprehensive approach to pet welfare. Here are some key laws and regulations that Oregon pet owners should be aware of:

• Leash and control ordinances. While Oregon doesn't have a statewide leash law, many cities and counties have enacted their own ordinances. For instance, in Portland, dogs must be on a leash no longer than 8 feet in most public areas. Always check local regulations when visiting new areas with your pet.
• Licensing and vaccination requirements. While pet licensing is typically handled at the county or city level in Oregon, state law requires all dogs to be vaccinated against rabies by six months of age, with some specific exemptions. Rabies vaccinations must be administered by a licensed veterinarian or under their direct supervision, and a Rabies Vaccination Certificate must be completed for each vaccinated dog.
• Tethering law. Oregon's law on tethering dogs makes it illegal to tether a dog for more than 10 hours in a 24-hour period. The law also prohibits the use of choke and pinch collars when tethering dogs and establishes standards for adequate shelter and bedding.
• Hot car law. Oregon's "Good Samaritan" law, enacted in 2017, allows individuals to break into vehicles to rescue children or animals in imminent danger from extreme temperatures without fear of criminal or civil liability. Certain conditions must be met, such as notifying law enforcement or emergency services and using only the minimum force necessary to enter the vehicle.
• Pet-friendly housing. Under the Fair Housing Act and Oregon state law, landlords cannot charge additional rent or deposits for service animals or emotional support animals that assist tenants with disabilities. Assistance animals are not considered pets, and landlords can only charge for damages beyond normal wear and tear.
• Travel requirements. When traveling with pets to or from Oregon, a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI), also known as a health certificate, is required. This must be issued no more than 30 days before entry, and pets must have current rabies vaccinations. If returning to Oregon within 30 days of departure, the original CVI to the destination state is accepted for the return trip.

Portland Pet Laws

As the largest city in Oregon, Portland has specific laws and regulations related to pet ownership. Here are some key points for pet owners in Portland:

• Leash laws. In Portland, dogs must be kept on a leash at all times when in public spaces, unless they're in designated off-leash areas. The leash must not exceed eight feet in length. This regulation helps ensure the safety of both pets and the public.
• Licensing and vaccination requirements. Dog owners in Portland are required to license their dogs within 30 days of reaching six months of age or within 30 days of moving to the county. Licenses are valid for one, two, or three years and require proof of a current rabies vaccination. Fees vary depending on the duration and whether the dog is spayed or neutered.
• Animal cruelty laws. Portland enforces strict laws against animal cruelty and neglect. These laws ensure that animals are treated humanely and receive adequate care, including proper shelter, food, and veterinary services when necessary.
• Airport guidelines. At Portland International Airport, animals must be housebroken and kept under control at all times. Trained service dogs are allowed freely, while other animals, including emotional support animals, must be in carriers unless using designated pet relief areas. The airport has specific rules to align with airline regulations and ensure safety.

Salem Pet Laws

Salem, the capital of Oregon, has distinct laws and regulations governing pet ownership. Here are some important points for pet owners in the city:

• Licensing requirements. While the City of Salem does not require pet licenses, both Marion and Polk Counties mandate that dogs be licensed. Dog owners must obtain a license when their dog reaches six months of age or within 30 days of moving to the county. Licensing helps ensure that pets are vaccinated and can be returned to their owners if lost.
• Leash laws. Salem enforces leash laws to ensure public safety. Dogs must be on a leash when in public spaces unless they are in designated off-leash areas. This helps prevent unwanted interactions with other pets and people.
• Barking dog complaints. Within Salem city limits, barking dog complaints are handled by local law enforcement. Persistent barking that disturbs neighbors can be reported, and authorities may take action to address the issue.
• Animal cruelty and neglect. Salem, like the rest of Oregon, enforces strict laws against animal cruelty and neglect. These laws ensure that animals receive adequate care, including proper shelter, food, and veterinary services. Violations can result in legal consequences for pet owners.

Eugene Pet Laws

Eugene, a lively city in Oregon nestled by the Willamette River, has its own set of laws and regulations governing pet ownership. Here are some important guidelines for pet owners in Eugene:

• Licensing requirements. In Eugene, all dogs must be licensed once they have a set of permanent canine teeth or are six months old, whichever comes first. A current rabies vaccination is required for licensing. This ensures that pets are vaccinated and can be reunited with their owners if lost. Licenses can be obtained through the city's program or through Lane County Animal Services for those in unincorporated areas.
• Leash laws. Eugene has leash laws in place to promote public safety. Dogs are required to be leashed in public areas, except in designated off-leash zones. This regulation helps avoid unwanted encounters with other pets and individuals.
• Barking dog ordinance. Eugene has specific regulations regarding barking dogs. A dog that persistently barks or howls, causing unreasonable disturbance to neighbors, can be reported to authorities. This ordinance helps maintain peace and quiet in residential areas.
• Animal control and enforcement. The City of Eugene employs animal control officers to enforce animal regulations, including issuing citations for violations. These officers work to ensure compliance with local laws and address issues related to animal welfare and public safety.

Common Pet Risks in Oregon

Oregon's varied climate and stunning landscapes can pose unique health challenges for pets. With everything from the rainy seasons to the looming threat of wildfires and other environmental concerns, pet owners in the Beaver State must stay alert and take proactive measures to ensure the safety of their furry companions. Here are some specific risks to keep in mind:

• Heat stroke. While Oregon has a moderate climate, temperatures can rise significantly during summer, especially in southern regions and east of the Cascades. Ensure pets have access to shade and fresh water during hot days and avoid walking them on hot pavement during peak temperature hours to prevent heat-related illnesses.
• Fleas and ticks. Oregon's varied climate makes fleas and ticks a concern, especially in wooded and grassy areas. Regular use of preventive medications and thorough checks after outdoor activities are essential to protect pets from parasites that can carry diseases such as Lyme disease.
• Toxic plants. Be cautious of toxic plants found in Oregon, such as foxglove, rhododendron, and yew. Prevent pets from ingesting harmful foliage to avoid poisoning.
• Wildfires. Wildfires are a growing risk in Oregon, particularly in the summer and early fall. Have an emergency evacuation plan that includes your pets to protect them from dangers such as smoke inhalation and burns.
• Wildlife. Supervise pets while they are outdoors and secure your yard to prevent encounters with Oregon wildlife such as raccoons, coyotes, and cougars, which can pose threats to pets.
• Zoonotic diseases. Pets in Oregon can be at risk of zoonotic diseases, which are diseases that can be transmitted between animals and humans. These include diseases such as leptospirosis and giardiasis. Regular veterinary check-ups and vaccinations can help prevent these infections.
• Mushroom poisoning. Oregon's wet climate supports the growth of various wild mushrooms, some of which are toxic to pets. Keep an eye on your pets during walks and prevent them from eating unknown mushrooms.

Veterinary Costs in Oregon

According to Banfield Pet Hospital's Price Estimator, the average cost for a vet visit in Oregon State is $71. However, costs will be higher for emergency care or specialized treatments. Here's an overview of vet visit costs in five cities across the state:

Best Pet Insurance by City in Oregon

As mentioned earlier, where you live can affect the cost of pet insurance. Here's an overview of affordable pet insurance providers in three major cities in Oregon:

Methodology

The PetPlace team compiled this guide through research and analysis of publicly available data. Some of the factors we considered include policy rates, waiting periods, the availability of a 24/7 vet helpline, and wellness routine care coverage. Our goal is to provide helpful information for pet owners in Oregon. However, we recommend conducting your own research, speaking to your vet, and considering your budget and your pet's specific needs before deciding on a pet insurance provider.

Best Pet Insurance in Oregon FAQs

Recommended Resources

• 7 Essential Tips for Choosing a Pet Insurance Policy That’s Right for You
• Compare and Contrast Pet Insurance Providers
• How Are Pet Wellness Plans Different from Pet Insurance?
• Is Pet Insurance Worth It for an Indoor Cat?
• Pet Insurance: What It Covers
• Pet Insurance for Kittens