Does Pet Insurance Cover Boarding?

Whether it’s a big vacation or a medical emergency, a time may come when you need someone to look after your furry family member(s). Some pet owners choose to board their pets while they’re away, but the cost per night can quickly add up.

So does pet insurance cover boarding? If you have MetLife Pet Insurance, the answer is yes — but only under specific circumstances. Let’s take a closer look. 

MetLife Pet’s Coverage for Boarding

Whatever option you choose for your pets, it’s important to understand exactly how pet insurance can help you with boarding.

With MetLife Pet, you can get the cost of boarding covered — up to $500 per your policy period. However, this only applies if boarding your pet is necessitated by a qualifying medical emergency. Specifically, if you or a member of your household is hospitalized for more than 48 hours, you could get reimbursed¹ for the cost of boarding your pet. Simply submit a claim that includes evidence of hospitalization and receipts from the pet boarding facility.

For example, Bella, a dog in Missouri, had to be boarded when her owner was hospitalized. The cost of boarding was $225, and MetLife Pet covered $135.²

What Is Pet Boarding?

Pet boarding is basically a hotel for pets. There are kennels and pet hotels designed specifically for boarding pets, but some veterinary offices offer animal boarding as well. These establishments allow you to rent kennel space for your dog or cat to be looked after while you’re away. Depending on the establishment you go with, your pets may have access to outdoor space and other “guests” to socialize with.

But these services don’t come cheap. Pet boarding can run you anywhere from $25 – $80 per night for dogs and $15 – $45 for cats.^3,4 The cost of boarding depends on the type of establishment you choose, as well as the size of your pet, whether they need special treatment, and your geographic location. Both big-city facilities and those located in rural areas with fewer options tend to cost more.³

Types of pet boarding facilities

If you’re going to be leaving your beloved pet in the care of a boarding facility, you’ll want to be sure it’s the right choice for your fur baby. Typically, there are four options to choose from:³

• Kennel boarding: The most basic type of pet boarding establishment, kennel facilities often provide your pet with their own kennel space and will look after their basic needs — food, water, and exercise. Kennel boarding is often the most affordable option and may offer optional services for an additional cost.
• Pet hotels: These establishments are a bit fancier than your average kennel boarding location. Pet hotels may include private rooms, spa facilities, obstacle courses, and even live webcams so you can check in on your pet. Of course, the trade-off is a higher price per night.
• Vet boarding: Your local veterinary clinic may offer overnight boarding services for a price. This can be a good option for pets with medical needs that might not be met at a commercial boarding facility. However, you shouldn’t expect the frills of a pet hotel or kennel boarding business.
• Pet sitting: A more recent option in the pet boarding industry is to find a pet sitter to look after your cat or dog in the comfort of your own home. It’s an option that allows your pets to stay in an environment they’re already familiar with and can reduce the risk of exposure to diseases, like kennel cough. Prices can vary widely since the cost per day is often set by the sitter.

MetLife Pet Insurance Can Help Cover Boarding Costs

Whether it’s for boarding your pet or getting them emergency treatment, MetLife Pet Insurance can help alleviate the financial side of pet ownership. Find out how much you could save on vet bills and other expenses with a free custom quote.