Operations on dogs are not rare. A swallowed foreign object, a slipped disc, a tumour removal or a broken leg: the reasons for surgery vary widely and are often impossible to predict. Surgery bills for dogs can be high and leave owners facing hard financial choices. Dog surgery insurance (Hunde-OP-Versicherung) is built for exactly these cases, so the dog's welfare is the only thing that has to count.
Unlike dog health insurance (Hundekrankenversicherung), which covers a wider range of illnesses and treatments, dog surgery insurance focuses on operations only. This narrower cover usually has a lower premium, yet it gives solid financial backing if an operation becomes necessary. For owners who want a cheaper alternative to full cover, it can be an attractive option, especially when expensive surgery is seen as the main risk.
Surgery costs for dogs in Germany follow the fee schedule for veterinarians (Gebührenordnung für Tierärzte, GOT) and vary widely with the type of procedure. A simple neutering costs only a few hundred euros, while complex operations such as spinal surgery, heart procedures or cancer surgery can easily cost 3,000 to 5,000 euros or more. Aftercare adds to this: medication, check-ups and, where needed, rehabilitation. These sums show how valuable surgery cover can be.
Dog surgery insurance is for all dog owners who want protection against high operating costs without taking out full cover. It is especially relevant for owners of breeds with known conditions that need surgery, such as bulldogs with breathing problems, large breeds with a higher risk of bone and joint disease, or breeds prone to gastric torsion (bloat).
Another benefit of surgery insurance is relief from worry. After an unexpected diagnosis, the decision for or against an operation does not have to depend on money. Owners can decide purely on what is best for their dog, without the guilt of having to go without a necessary treatment.
When you take out dog surgery insurance, check the sum insured, waiting periods, exclusions for pre-existing conditions and the maximum reimbursement rate closely. We help you find the right offer for your dog's individual needs.
Dog surgery insurance: benefits
Dog surgery insurance gives targeted protection for operations:
Operations: The costs of surgery are covered, including medication and consumables. Cover applies to all services directly connected with an operation under general anaesthesia, partial anaesthesia, local anaesthesia or sedation.
Diagnostics and preparation: Diagnostics on the last examination day before an operation are reimbursed. This includes imaging such as X-ray, MRI and CT.
Aftercare and clinic stays: Clinic stays and follow-up treatment are reimbursed for up to 20 to 30 days after the operation, depending on the tariff. Covered are follow-up examinations, accommodation at the animal clinic, medicines and alternative treatments such as homeopathy.
Physiotherapy: For follow-up care after an operation, the insurance pays for physiotherapy provided by vets or on referral. Examples: underwater treadmill, massage, lymphatic drainage, manual therapy, magnetic field therapy, laser therapy, exercise therapy, osteopathy, chiropractic, acupressure, acupuncture, shockwave therapy and ultrasound therapy.
Dental treatment: Dental treatment and surgical treatment of the mouth cavity are covered, including orthodontics and dental prophylaxis under anaesthesia.
Specific conditions: A maximum sum applies to the surgical treatment of each of the following diagnoses: hip dysplasia (HD), elbow dysplasia (ED), patellar luxation, eyelid abnormalities.
Prostheses and implants: Orthopaedic implants, eye implants, skin and tissue implants and cardiovascular implants are reimbursed.
Basic preventive care: Preventive measures are also included in surgery cover from the Smart tariff, e.g. vaccinations, worming and a one-time microchip implant to identify your dog.
Cover abroad: Your dog is insured worldwide for up to 12 months when travelling abroad.
Other benefits: Emergency service fee, cost of euthanasia for incurable illness, telemedicine, direct billing with the vet, free choice of vet and clinic, lifelong cover from the eighth week of life with no maximum age.
Waiting periods: None for young animals under 6 months. None for accidents. A waiting period of three months applies to illness and developmental disorders.
