AKC pet insurance received a rating of 1.9 out of 5 stars in a recent evaluation. The company's base policy lacks robust coverage, requiring customers to purchase multiple add-ons for more generous protection.
In fact, AKC was the only insurer in the assessment that does not cover hereditary and congenital conditions in its base policy. A rider must be bought for an extra cost to include these conditions.
The average costs for the base plan were high, even before factoring in additional expenses for riders. For a plan with a $5,000 annual limit, the average monthly cost is $106.05. An unlimited coverage plan averages $215.32 per month.
AKC does offer some advantages. It provides a wide range of deductible choices from $100 to $1,000. The policy covers alternative therapies such as acupuncture and chiropractic care. Breeding coverage is available, and emergency ground pet ambulance transportation is included in emergencies.
However, the high average cost remains a significant drawback. Add-ons are required for coverage of vet exam fees, hereditary and congenital conditions, behavioral therapy, and more.
The insurer offers several policy options: an accident and illness policy, an accident-only policy, and pet wellness plans named Defender and DefenderPlus. The base accident and illness policy covers items like X-rays, surgery, hospitalization, prescription drugs, and euthanasia.
Extra coverage, available at additional cost, includes ExamPlus for vet exam fees, HereditaryPlus for hereditary conditions, SupportPlus for end-of-life expenses, and BreedingCoverage for breeding-related medical costs.
A key feature is the coverage of preexisting conditions after 365 days of continuous coverage. AKC also provides access to a 24/7 vet telehealth line for general questions and advice.
The policy does not cover expenses such as anal gland expression, boarding, grooming, or elective cosmetic procedures. Conditions from racing or fighting are excluded, as are illnesses from war, riots, or pandemics.
Claims must be filed within 180 days of treatment. Reimbursement is typically made within one day after all documents are submitted, though some claims can take up to 30 days. Policyholders must pay the vet first and then file for reimbursement.
AKC uses the Pet Cloud mobile app, which has ratings of 4.8 stars on the App Store and 4.4 stars on Google Play. The app allows for claim submission and stores policy documents.
The insurance is available in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. No vet exam is required for enrollment. A 5% multi-pet discount is offered, though it is not available in all states.
Customer service can be reached by phone, email, fax, or mail. Policies can be canceled at any time by calling the provided number.