Can I insure my sick dog?
Many dog owners ask themselves: Can I insure my sick dog? The answer is: Yes, but with restrictions.
Dog health insurance despite a pre-existing condition covers all future illnesses and accidents, but not already existing diseases. This means that we cover diagnoses and treatments that occur after the start of the insurance policy. Dogs with chronic illnesses can therefore also be insured, provided a clear distinction can be made between existing diagnoses and new, independent illnesses.
Focus on the cuddles, we'll focus on the costs.
What counts as a pre-existing condition?
Dalma defines a pre-existing condition as any health impairment that already existed, was treated by a veterinarian, or was diagnosed before the start of the contract. This includes, among others:
- Chronic diseases such as diabetes or thyroid diseases
- Joint diseases such as hip dysplasia (HD) or elbow dysplasia (ED)
- Allergies or skin diseases
- Heart and respiratory diseases
Pre-existing conditions also include complaints that are currently symptom-free but have already been treated by a veterinarian or diagnosed. Even cured illnesses can be classified as a pre-existing condition depending on the individual case if there is a connection with later complaints.
View full overview of benefits: Click here
Focus on the cuddles, we'll focus on the costs.
Which costs does Dalma pet insurance cover despite pre-existing conditions?
Even if your dog has a pre-existing condition, you can insure them with Dalma. Our dog health insurance for pre-existing conditions provides comprehensive protection for all future illnesses and accidents, including:
- Veterinary treatments for new illnesses or injuries;
- Medication and diagnostics such as X-rays, blood tests, and ultrasound;
- Surgical procedures;
- Alternative healing methods such as physiotherapy or acupuncture (according to our list of benefits);
- Telemedicine consultation through our partner FirstVet.
Important: Treatments relating to an already existing illness or those occurring during the waiting period are not insured. For acutely ill dogs, it may also be necessary to submit the medical records to ensure that new symptoms are not related to an existing pre-existing condition – in this case, these costs would also not be covered.
Note on epilepsy: Treatments in connection with epilepsy are generally excluded at Dalma. This applies to both already known and newly occurring epileptic seizures. Other illnesses or accidents not related to epilepsy can, however, still be covered.
Focus on the cuddles, we'll focus on the costs.
Why Dalma for dogs with pre-existing conditions?
- 100% Transparency – no hidden costs or sudden cancellation after a claim
- Flexible tariffs – customize your conditions individually
- Fast reimbursement – within 48 hours after filing the claim
- Digital processing – easy claim reporting via our Dalma app
Unlike many other providers, Dalma does not reject dogs with pre-existing conditions across the board. Instead, existing illnesses are clearly excluded, while new, independent illnesses and accidents remain insured.
Frequently asked questions about dog health insurance despite illness
Focus on the cuddles, we'll focus on the costs.
Frequently asked questions about dog health insurance despite illness
Can I take out health insurance for my dog with a pre-existing condition?
Yes! With Dalma pet health insurance for dogs with pre-existing conditions, you protect your four-legged friend against future medical costs. Existing illnesses are, however, excluded. Give your dog the protection they deserve! Calculate your individual offer for dog health insurance with pre-existing conditions now and secure a 15% discount for multiple insured animals. Do you still have questions? Our team of experts will be happy to help you further!
What happens if my dog gets sick during the waiting period?
Illnesses that occur during the waiting period are considered pre-existing conditions and are not insured. The insurance coverage begins after the respective waiting period has expired.
Do I have to provide my dog's medical history if they have a pre-existing condition?
Yes, in certain cases – for example, if your dog is acutely ill – Dalma can request the medical records. This is how we ensure that new complaints are not related to an existing pre-existing condition. Only then can we check whether the treatment will be covered.
Does Dalma cover breed-specific diseases?
Yes! After a waiting period of 12 months, breed-specific diseases such as hip and elbow dysplasia are covered. Patellar luxation is also covered after 18 months. This means: even if your dog has genetic risks, these can fall under insurance coverage after the respective waiting period, provided they were not already diagnosed before the start of the contract.
Focus on the cuddles, we'll focus on the costs.
Focus on the cuddles, we'll focus on the costs.
Focus on the cuddles, we'll focus on the costs.
Focus on the cuddles, we'll focus on the costs.
Focus on the cuddles, we'll focus on the costs.
Focus on the cuddles, we'll focus on the costs.
