Once dogs hit their senior pet years, it’s often assumed that pet insurance is no longer an option. The truth is, this is when it matters most. Older dogs need more care, and that means more visits to the clinic and a bit more planning.
Australia’s got brilliant healthcare for humans, but our four-legged family members are on their own. The Australian Veterinary Association confirms what every pet parent already knows: you’re covering 100% of those vet bills yourself.
This is where pet insurance for older dogs can help give you peace of mind. It lets you say yes to the care your dog needs without worrying about the cost.
Common health problems in Senior Dogs
By 8 years old, your dog has officially discovered that their body might have some terms and conditions they didn’t read in the puppy manual.
Those days of treating furniture like personal trampolines are over. They start to walk a little slower, playtimes become naps, and joints start to creak. These can affect their comfort, happiness, and routine.
The reality is that vet bills often grow alongside your dog’s healthcare needs. Here are the most common health issues ageing dogs typically face:
1. Arthritis
Your senior pup has officially joined the ranks of dogs who grunt when they stand up. No more jumping on the couch like they used to and walks have become a little slower and shorter. They might even ignore you when you say ‘fetch’.
But your stiff-legged superstar isn’t done being super yet. Arthritis can be helped with proper medication and therapy.
An injection in Sydney may cost from $46.50, excluding consultation fees. Knose can help with costs, as long as it’s not a pre-existing condition.
2. Heart Disease
This tends to sneak up a lot on our elder pups, the unexpected guest who overstays their welcome. Your dog might be getting tired faster, coughing than usual, or needing more breaks on walks.
Managing it usually means vet visits, medications, and maybe a fancy diet to keep things ticking along smoothly.
If it’s not a pre-existing condition, Knose can help foot the bill. Wellness screenings cost around $175.80, including blood tests to catch sneaky health issues.
3. Cancer and Tumors
Nobody ever wants this, but the dreaded C-word has a nasty habit of crashing a party. It can be anything from a suspicious lump to more serious internal problems.
Catching it early makes all the difference, and many dogs go right back to stealing socks and judging our cooking.
Knose is here to help, unless it’s a pre-existing issue. Procedures usually range from $750 to $3,000, depending on what your senior dog needs.
4. Dental Disease
Is funky breath making you say no to slobbery kisses? It’s a sign to take your dog to the vet. Dental disease can hide in plain sight, which is why experts recommend having your dog’s teeth checked once a year.
Pesky bacteria can travel to the heart, kidneys, and liver when ignored. Dental cleanings in Brisbane usually cost $500 to $1,000. With Knose, you can add them to your plan and stay ahead of the mess.
5. Dementia (Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome)
As dogs age, their brains can get a bit glitchy. Their minds start to wander, like when you walk into a room and forget why. You’ll notice big changes in the way they behave.
Your once sprite and sharp dog might suddenly start barking at shadows, forget where their favourite spot is, or get disoriented in their daily routines.
There’s no cure yet, but there are medications and supplements that can help keep their brain buzzing a bit longer.
When your seniors act a little loopy, pet behaviour consultations help. They start from around $695, and Knose can chip in if it’s part of your cover.
How pet insurance puts money back in your pocket
Senior dogs cost serious money. Bills can quickly spiral without warning between joint supplements, dental cleanings, and urgent vet visits.
Pet insurance covers part of qualifying expenses like appointments, diagnostics, and medications. That means you’re not paying the full amount out of pocket each time they need a little extra care.
Over time, those savings can really stack up. A single condition might need multiple visits or long-term medication, and without cover, that’s all on you.
With the right policy, you’re cushioning your budget and protecting your dog at the same time.
Knose Pet Insurance is made for dogs like yours
Your senior dogs deserve cover that works with their age, not against it. We’ve made it our mission to take the fluff out of pet insurance (the confusing kind, not the cute kind).
Knose offers flexible, top-rated pet insurance made specifically for Australian dogs at every life stage.
Our pet insurance coverage includes the big stuff like accidents and illnesses, plus all those treatments that actually matter. There are additional options for dental problems, behavior issues, and alternative therapies.
Pets can join Knose up to the age of 8 years and 364 days. After that, coverage can continue but new enrolments are not allowed.
It’s best to enrol early because conditions that develop later are not covered. Any related treatment, medication or ongoing care will need to be paid out of pocket.
We keep things straightforward with no binding contracts, no confusing exclusions, and no nasty surprises when you actually need to claim. It’s just genuine coverage based on what you and your dog needs.
Don’t miss the chance to protect your senior dog while they’re eligible. Get a dog insurance quote and see how you can help them feel their best in the years ahead.
*All prices mentioned are estimates and may vary based on location, provider, and individual pet needs. Always check with your local vet, groomer, or supplier for the most up-to-date pricing.
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Post by Knose Pet Insurance in collaboration with Ranzel
Ranzel is a perpetually caffeinated logophile whose work revolves around pets. She’s an advocate for the furred, feathered, and finned. A cat mum by fate, and a full-time sitter to an ever-growing crew of adorable strays.
