For many, pet insurance has become a vital safety net for many pet owners, providing financial assistance during unexpected medical emergencies. One of the common conditions that pet owners inquire about regarding insurance coverage is “ACL” surgery for dogs.
However, there’s a bit of a misconception here—dogs don’t have an Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) per se. Instead, they have a cranial cruciate ligament (CCL), which is functionally similar to the ACL in humans. Despite the terminology difference, pet insurance does often cover surgeries related to CCL injuries in dogs. For simplicity, I will refer to the condition as ACL.
Key Takeaways
- Most pet companies cover ACL surgery for dogs and cats.
- You have to pay upfront and will be reimbursed after you file a claim.
- Preexisting ACL injuries are not covered.
Types of ACL Surgery for Dogs
The most common type of ACL injury in dogs is a tear or rupture. It often manifests as sudden lameness or limping, reluctance to put weight on the affected leg, and swelling around the knee joint. This condition is quite painful for the dog and can significantly impact its quality of life if left untreated.
There are different surgical techniques employed by veterinarians to address ACL injuries in dogs:
Extracapsular Repair: This technique involves using a strong suture material placed outside the joint to stabilize the knee and mimic the function of the ACL. It’s a commonly performed surgery for smaller dogs or those with less active lifestyles.
Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO): TPLO involves altering the angle of the tibia to prevent the sliding motion that occurs when the ACL is torn. It’s a more intricate surgery often recommended for larger dogs or those with more active lifestyles.
Tibial Tuberosity Advancement (TTA): Similar to TPLO, TTA alters the mechanics of the knee joint by changing the angle of the tibia to stabilize the knee without relying on the ACL. It’s another surgical option used to address ACL injuries in dogs.
Does Pet Insurance Cover ACL Surgery?
The coverage for ACL surgery can vary between different pet insurance providers and policies. Generally, pet insurance plans that cover accidents and illnesses often include coverage for ACL surgeries.
However, it’s crucial to carefully review the terms and conditions of the insurance policy to understand the extent of coverage, any waiting periods, deductibles, and reimbursement limits.
Pet Insurance Companies with Dog ACL Coverage
Based on my research, these are the top pet insurance companies with ACL surgery coverage for dogs. Note that the costs here are averages. Pet insurance in Virginnia for instance, may have different prices.
Fetch
Fetch offers a comprehensive accident-and-illness plan that covers ACL surgery. However, there’s a six-month waiting period for hip and knee injuries. Yet, by having a vet certify your pet’s knee health within the first 30 days of the policy, this waiting period can be waived. In this scenario, a standard 15-day waiting period for accidents and illnesses applies, and Fetch also covers post-surgical rehabilitation.
- Average Cost of ACL Surgery for Dogs: $35.57–$79.61
- Average Cost of ACL Surgery for Cats: $20.43–$43.86
Embrace
Similar to Fetch, Embrace provides an accident-and-illness plan but with a six-month waiting period for orthopedic conditions, including cruciate ligament issues. They offer an Orthopedic Exam and Waiver process that can reduce the waiting period to 14 days after a vet exam. However, bilateral conditions aren’t covered, though certain rehabilitation methods like hydrotherapy are included.
- Average Cost of ACL Surgery for Dogs: $26.27–$102.07
- Average Cost of ACL Surgery for Cats: $10.57–$41.04
Trupanion
Trupanion’s basic accident-and-illness plan covers ACL problems, whether from injury or joint degradation. They offer a Recovery and Complementary Care add-on for rehabilitative therapy at an extra cost ranging from $2 to $30 per month. Trupanion has a waiting period of 30 days for illness. For accidents it is five days.. Importantly, there’s no additional waiting period specifically for ACL issues, and they don’t exclude specific bilateral conditions.
- Average Cost of ACL Surgery for Dogs: $54.17–$226.09
- Average Cost of ACL Surgery for Cats: $22.49–$88.88
Spot
Spot Pet Insurance has a short waiting period of 14 days for all accidents and injuries, making it the quickest for ACL injuries. They offer accident-only coverage at a lower cost, suitable for sudden ACL injuries. However, if your pet experiences joint issues over time, you’ll need an accident-and-illness plan. Spot also accepts enrollments without an upper age limit, although premiums for senior pets will be higher.
- Average Cost of ACL Surgery for Dogs: $10.12–$83.89
- Average Cost of ACL Surgery for Cats: $5.98–$51.45
Lemonade
Lemonade’s basic accident-and-illness plan covers ACL surgery, but there’s a six-month waiting period for “cruciate ligament events.” If your pet shows signs of limping or lameness during this period, ACL treatments won’t be covered. For physical therapy coverage, a special add-on priced between $2 to $5 per month is necessary.
- Average Cost of ACL Surgery for Dogs: $17.78–$77.80
- Average Cost of ACL Surgery for Cats: $11.00–$43.21
How Pet Insurance Covers Dog ACL Surgery
If your dog suffers from a suspected ACL injury, the vet will assess your dog’s condition, possibly through physical examination, X-rays, or other diagnostic tests. If surgery is deemed necessary, the veterinarian will provide a treatment plan, outlining the costs involved.
Before proceeding with surgery, contact your pet insurance provider to confirm coverage and obtain pre-authorization. They will guide you on the specific requirements and documentation needed for the claims process.
You will be responsible for paying the veterinary fees upfront. Keep all the detailed invoices, medical records, and receipts related to the procedure. After surgery, submit a claim to your pet insurance provider.
If the claim is approved, the pet insurance provider will reimburse you for the eligible expenses according to your policy terms. This reimbursement is typically a percentage of the covered costs, minus any deductibles or copayments specified in your policy.
How Much Does Dog ACL Surgery Cost?
The cost of ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) surgery for dogs can vary depending on several factors, such as the geographic location, the size and breed of the dog, and the severity of the injury. A typical ACL surgical operation for dogs is going to cost at least $2400. It can go up to $7500 or more. Serious, complicated surgeries can reach up to $11,000.
Alongside the surgery costs, there are other expenses to consider as well. Prior to the procedure, your veterinarian may recommend diagnostic tests, such as X-rays or an MRI, to assess the extent of the injury and identify if any other issues are present. These exams will drive up the cost. This does not even account for post-surgery care, which ,may require medications, follow up check, physical therapy and more.
How Much Does Cat ACL Surgery Cost?
The cost of ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) surgery for cats can vary depending on several factors, including the location, the veterinarian’s experience and reputation, the extent of the injury, and any additional treatments required. On average, the cost of ACL surgery for cats can range from $1,500 to $4,000.
The total cost of ACL surgery includes various components, such as pre-surgical examinations, diagnostics (x-rays or MRI), anesthesia, surgery, medications, post-operative care, and rehabilitation. The complexity of the surgery and any additional treatments like physical therapy or braces might also contribute to the overall expense.
Conclusion
Pet insurance can be a valuable asset in managing unexpected veterinary costs, including surgeries related to ACL injuries in dogs. Understanding the terminology difference between ACL and CCL is essential when exploring insurance coverage for knee-related surgeries. The bottom line is you must select a pet insurance plan that matches your budget and also ensures your pet is well protected.
