Sarah purchased a top-rated policy for her active dog, Buddy. When Buddy tore his ACL ($6,400 bill), the insurer requested all his vet history. They found a single, old shelter note: “puppy limps occasionally after running”. The insurer denied the claim, citing the note as a sign or symptom of a "pre-existing condition".
US pet insurers routinely exclude claims for anything arguably related to “signs or symptoms” prior to policy start, often using shelter or rescue intake notes.
Shelter/review of intake notes triggered an exclusion, US “symptoms” pre-existing clause.
“This policy does not cover… Pre-existing Conditions, defined as any illness, injury, or any signs or symptoms of a condition… that existed prior to the Effective Date or during the 14-day waiting period.”
Clara flags the precise language defining “Pre-existing Conditions” (especially the inclusion of "signs or symptoms" rather than just a formal diagnosis).
* This scenario described is fictious and is solely for illustrative or educational purposes so the insured has the opportunity to discuss these issues with their licensed insurance producer.
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