Nation's Leading Pet Insurer Devotes November to Cancer Awareness by Sharing Proprietary Claims Data
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Cancer Claims for Veterinary Pet Insurance Rank Third Among all Conditions in 2004
BREA, Calif., Nov. 16 /PRNewswire/ -- An analysis of 2004 cancer-related claims data from Veterinary Pet Insurance Co./DVM Insurance Agency (VPI) indicates that combined claims related to cancer for dogs and cats represented the third highest number of claims submissions last year. More than 17,000 cancer-related claims were received by the nation's oldest and largest pet insurance provider, with those running the gamut of cancer types -- from mast cell tumors to lung cancer.
"Our motivation for studying and sharing our proprietary claims data was to underscore the prevalence of cancer among dogs and cats," said Carol McConnell, DVM, manager of veterinary education and services for VPI. "The data demonstrates pets suffer from the same cancers as humans. Veterinary medicine has advanced tremendously the past ten years and pets are now receiving the same sophisticated treatments for these cancers that we do, such as chemotherapy, surgical procedures and immunotherapy."
VPI claims data from the past four years reveals that the most common cancers in dogs were lymphosarcoma (a cancer affecting the lymph node system), skin tumors and osteogenic sarcoma (bone cancer). The data also suggests that cats similarly suffer from lympohsarcoma and skin tumors, but showed higher rates for partial mastectomies (breast cancer) and small intestinal cancer.
Overall, the 2004 cancer-related claims submitted to Veterinary Pet Insurance represented 176 different canine breeds and 30 feline breeds. These claims include all age groups, from kittens and puppies to geriatric pets. "Cancer in pets can be found in every breed at various ages," added McConnell. "It's significantly less common in younger pets, but it's not unheard of for a younger dog to develop a malignancy."
McConnell emphasizes the importance of monitoring your pet for clinical signs of cancer. "It's imperative for pet owners to take their furry family members to their veterinarian for bi-annual checkups and to regularly check their pet for warning signs: lumps and bumps; sores that don't heal; weight loss; loss of appetite; and exercise intolerance."
Pet insurance can provide financial assistance to pet owners who choose to pursue necessary testing and treatments should their pet contract cancer. VPI Pet Insurance medical plans reimburse for almost all cancers, and with the addition of a Cancer Rider, owners are able to receive double the cancer benefit allowances associated with the base plans. "At enrollment, we urge pet owners to consider the enhanced cancer coverage when the pet is young, providing pet owners with peace of mind that they have the ability to elect chemotherapy or radiation for their pet should the unfortunate diagnosis of cancer occur in their dog or cat," explains McConnell.
VPI is encouraging pet owners nationwide to support pet cancer research endeavors. Beginning Nov. 16, visitors to VPI's Web site will be able to purchase limited-edition Pet Cancer Awareness collars for their dog(s). All profits from Pet Cancer Awareness collar sales will go directly to the Animal Cancer Foundation, an organization that develops and supports research that advances the prevention and treatment of cancer for people and pets. Interested donors can find more information on Pet Cancer Awareness collars at http://www.petinsurance.com/cancer/.
About Veterinary Pet Insurance
Veterinary Pet Insurance is the nation's oldest and largest health insurance provider for pets. Selling policies since 1982, the company is committed to making the miracles of veterinary medicine affordable for all pet owners. VPI Pet Insurance plans cover dogs, cats, birds and exotic pets for thousands of medical problems and conditions relating to accidents, illnesses and injuries. Optional Vaccination & Routine Care Coverage is also available.
Policies are available in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Policies are underwritten by Veterinary Pet Insurance Company in California and in all other states by Madison, Wisconsin-based National Casualty Company, an A+XV A.M. Best rated company and a subsidiary of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. For more information about VPI Pet Insurance policies, call 800-944-1751 or visit http://www.petinsurance.com.
