Pet Insurance Tales
From accidents and illnesses to chronic conditions, pet insurance can be utilized for a pet’s life.
From exploring the lush landscapes of Mount Rainier to strolling along the Puget Sound and hiking the hills of Hells Canyon, Washington is an incredible place for pets and people alike. Pet care is getting pricier these days, though, especially in high-cost-of-living cities like Seattle. Luckily, having a pet insurance plan can help cover eligible costs for accidents, illnesses, and more, ensuring you and your pets can enjoy all your adventures across the Evergreen State with less worry about accidents and illnesses.
With an ASPCA® Pet Health Insurance plan, you have the freedom to visit any licensed veterinarian in the state, as well as any veterinary clinic within the U.S. and Canada. From the San Juan Islands to Walla Walla, you decide where your pet receives top-notch care.
There are currently over 1,100* licensed veterinarians in the state of Washington. Use our Vet Locator tool to find one that works for you!
The cost of veterinary care can add up quickly, from routine visits to unexpected emergencies. The ASPCA® Pet Health Insurance program can help ease the financial burden by reimbursing up to 90% of covered conditions, so you can help ensure that your four-legged friend gets the top-notch veterinary care they deserve anywhere within the state.
Your cost is based on a few different things, including your pet's age and breed, your zip code, and the plan you choose. Below are a few estimates to help you better understand what pet insurance might cost in Washington.
**Estimated premium quotes based on a $5,000 annual limit, 80% reimbursement rate, and $250 annual deductible, as of 2/1/24. Plan costs vary based on plan type, pet breed, age, and location. Take a look at a sample policy to see what’s covered.
Don't let the Cascade Range of vet bills overwhelm you. Fetch your free quote today!
While exploring the wonders of Washington, remember that hidden threats can lurk amongst the beauty. Here are some common dangers faced by Washingtonian pets:
In Washington, you'll find a range of wildlife, from coyotes and bears to mountain lions. These animals can be dangerous to pets left unsupervised or off-leash. Additionally, critters like raccoons and skunks may carry diseases like rabies that could spread to pets. To steer clear of any dangers while out with your dog, it's best to keep them on a leash.
Parvovirus, commonly known as "parvo," is a contagious virus affecting the digestive system. While both dogs and cats can become infected, canine parvovirus and feline parvovirus are caused by different viruses. Parvo is common throughout Washington; fortunately, vaccination can prevent it in both species.
Kennel cough, also known as canine infectious tracheobronchitis or Bordetella, is a highly contagious respiratory infection in dogs. This disease is common in places where many dogs congregate and has spread in WA. Symptoms include a persistent, forceful cough that sounds like a goose honk, sneezing, a runny nose, or eye discharge.
As breathtaking as they are, Washington's waterways pose potential dangers to our pets. Rapid river currents and frigid ocean temperatures increase the risk of drowning or hypothermia, while toxic algal blooms in certain bodies of water can be deadly if consumed.
From Tacoma and Seattle to Winthrop, Odessa, and Spokane, help ensure your pet's health is protected across the state of Washington with the ASPCA® Pet Health Insurance program. Get a free pet insurance quote today.
Looking for some outdoor adventure? We've rounded up five fantastic locations in scenic Washington that are perfect for you and your four-legged friend to discover together.
This trail in Washington's North Cascades National Park is one of the hidden gems of the National Park system. Diablo Lake Trail is moderately challenging as it meanders through the old-growth forest along the flanks of Sourdough Mountain on its way to the sparkling turquoise water of Diablo Lake. Enjoy the stunning scenery that includes Colonial, Davis, Pyramid, and Snowfield Peaks, as well as 700-foot waterfalls. The total trek out and back is about 7.6 miles.
Like all National Park trails, your dog must always be on a leash that’s no more than 6’ long, and you're required to clean up after your pet.
The trail in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness near Snoqualmie Pass, Washington, is very popular, so you'll want to make sure your dog is comfortable with crowds before hitting this often-crowded spot. After climbing 200 feet up log steps, the trail wanders through the forest and over ridges to the best view of a beautiful lake. Continue to the trail’s end for an even more spectacular view that is definitely worth the wait — and the hike!
Stay alert for the mountain goats that call this area home. Snow Lake Trail is moderately difficult and is about 7.2 miles out and back.
Coal Creek Trail is a pet-friendly hiking path in Bellevue, WA. With lush foliage, wooden bridges, and historical markers along the way, you and your pup can marvel at the waterfalls, admire the towering trees, and cool off your toes (and paws) in Coal Creek.
This out-and-back loop trail runs about six miles and can be broken into smaller pieces for those looking for shorter options. Dogs must be leashed on the path.
Dog Mountain is an extremely popular hike with expansive wildflower meadows and panorama vistas of the Columbia River Gorge. It’s also considered one of the most challenging hikes within the Portland Metro and Columbia River area. Running 7.6 miles out and back, you’ll be hiking under the shade of moss-covered trees in the Pacific Northwest Forest, through expansive alpine meadows filled with wildflowers, and along steep drop-offs and narrow ravines as you make your way to the top. Once there, sit back and take in the gorge(ous) views.
Dogs are welcome on Dog Mountain Trail, but they must be on a leash. And keep an eye out for black bears, rattlesnakes, and scorpions.
Bring your canine companion to a ghost town in the Mount Rainier area for a unique adventure exploring abandoned ruins. Established in 1900 as a coal mining town, Melmont was deserted by 1920, with most structures ravaged by fire. Today, all that remains of this community are crumbling block walls and vegetation-covered foundations.
Although the trail entrance is very steep, the 8-mile roundtrip trail is quite manageable. It’s a popular spot, so expect to come across other hikers during your exploration. While dogs are allowed off-leash in certain sections, it's important to leash them when near ruins, as these are deemed important historical sites, and always leave things as you find them for others to enjoy.
So, lace up your hiking boots, grab your dog's leash, and embark on some unforgettable adventures together in the beautiful wilderness of Washington - all while keeping their health and safety a top priority with the protection of an ASPCA® Pet Health Insurance plan.
*Number of veterinarians in WA is based on internal data as of 3/3/24.
The information presented in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute or substitute for the advice of your veterinarian.