Top 10 Most Expensive Pet Health Conditions

by Dr. Chris

July 17, 2011  VPI Insurance recently released data showing us what the 10 most common $1,00 plus claims are. As you will see from the list, many of these claims cost well over $1,000.

1. Intervertebral Disc Disease
Average Cost per Claim: $3,282

Dachshunds are a dog breed that has a high incidence of intervertebral disc disease because of the their long backs.

2. Stomach Torsion/Bloat
  Average Cost per Claim: $2,509

Large breed dogs like the Great Dane, is one dog breed that commonly experiences stomach torsion/bloat due to their large abdomen.

3. Ruptured Bile Duct
  Average Cost per Claim: $2,245

4. Laryngeal Paralysis
  Average Cost per Claim: $2,042

5. Intestinal - Foreign Object
  Average Cost per Claim: $1,967

6. Tumor of the Throat
  Average Cost per Claim: $1,677

To learn more about tumors, read our article about Cancer in Dogs.

7. Broken Leg (Plate)
  Average Cost per Claim: $1,586

8. Torn Knee Ligament/Cartilage
Average Cost per Claim: $1,578

9. Stomach - Foreign Object
  Average Cost per Claim: $1,502

10. Ear Canal Surgery -Ablation
  Average Cost per Claim: $1,285

To learn more about keeping your dog's ears healthy and how to clean them at home, read our article on dog ear infections.

As you can see intervertebral disc disease was the most expensive claim, having an average of $3,282!

Dr. Carol McConnell, vice president and chief veterinary medical
officer for VPI, says that "Pet owners should be aware that these $1,000 accidents and illnesses can happen to just about any pet: indoor, outdoor, young or old. Though the cost of care for these conditions may be high, the prognosis is usually positive, and many of the pets that are treated will recover."

Visit Compare Pet Insurance Plans to learn more about how to buy a policy for your pet.

Source: Top 10 Most Expensive Pet Health Conditions.

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