INS dog insurance policies gaining in popularity

September 16^th, 2013 (InsideCostaRica.com) Word is getting out about the National Insurance Institute’s (INS) insurance policy for man’s best friend.

INS has offered the policy since 2011, though its existence wasn’t known by many.

Fernando Lopez, the general insurance chief at INS, said the canine insurance was a necessity that many clients had repeatedly expressed interest in.  After market research proved the idea to be feasible, INS began offering policies.

The policies only cover dogs, not other pets.  INS points to the fact that dogs are the most popular pets in Costa Rica and their care also generates more expense than other pets.

Right now, INS is the only insurer in Costa Rica to provide such policies.

Prices range between ¢ 15,000 and ¢ 50,000 per year depending on the coverage purchased.

Basic coverage covers veterinary expenses in case of accident or illness.  Additional coverage is available for accidental death, theft, or even loss – including the cost of placing an ad in the newspaper to aide in the search.  Liability coverage is also available, should the animal cause damage to third party property, as well as care for the animal should the owner become hospitalized.

Coverage limits range from ¢ 500,000 to ¢ 2 million.