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Brunker Road Veterinary Centre

Quality vet care in Adamstown, Newcastle

02 4957 2269
Book Online

278 Brunker Road, Adamstown NSW 2289
Mon-Fri: 8am-6:30pm, Sat: 8am-4pm
Sun + Pub Hols: Closed
You are here: Home / Articles / Your ultimate guide to pet care insurance

Your ultimate guide to pet care insurance

Everything you need to know about animal insurance and why it’s an important consideration for your furry friend

Every year many pets do not receive the care they require or are euthanased because owners are unable to afford treatment. Pet insurance is invaluable in providing peace of mind that if your pet becomes sick, you will be able to care for them and not be limited by financial constraints.

When considering what insurance to take out for your pet, there are several elements to consider.

Co-payment and Excess

Most policies will pay around 80% of your veterinary bills with you required to pay 20%. Some will pay 100% and some will have additional co payments when your pet reaches a certain age. Certain policies may also require that you pay an excess for each condition that is treated.

Annual Policy Limits

Most Policies have an annual limit. Make sure this annual limit is not too constricting. It is not unusual for the treatment of  illness or injury to cost several thousand dollars.

Accident Only vs Accident and Illness Coverage

Accident only polices are cheaper but limit quite significantly what you are covered for. There may also be confusion as to whether a condition is an injury or an illness. We would generally recommend taking out Accident and illness cover.

Age Limits and Pre-existing Conditions

Most Policies have an upper age limit on when you can join. In addition policies generally do not cover pre-existing conditions. The best time to get your pet insured is as soon as you get them. Deciding to switch insurers can also be an issue as the new insurer may not cover any pre-existing conditions. Therefore it pays to do your research well before choosing an insurer.

Waiting Periods

Most Policies have a 30 day Waiting Period. Some have a special Waiting Period for cruciate ligament conditions of 6 months unless a waiver is signed by a veterinary examination. Cruciate ligament conditions are very common and we would recommend having this waiver signed.

Wellness Packages

A wellness package often includes rebates for vaccinations, flea treatments and other preventative treatments. They can help to spread your costs, however be aware that they will increase your premiums.

Policies may also have certain conditions for treatment of tick paralysis and premium loading for special breeds such as Bulldogs.

Finally always read the fine print to make sure you understand your insurance completely. 

Have a look at the Top 10 Pet Insurance website to help compare different policy options.

GAP Only Insurance

GapOnly insurance companies let owners settle their pet’s treatment costs (surgical & hospital) on discharge, by only paying the gap (the difference between the total of the invoice and the claim benefits under their policy), rather than the full invoice amount and then making an insurance claim. See video below:

Below are links to insurers who offer pet insurance policies. This is not a comprehensive list and we do not endorse any particular insurer.

  • PetCare
  • PetPlan
  • Pet Cover
  • PetMed
  • Pet Secure
  • Prosure
  • RSPCA
  • Real Insurance
  • Guardian Insurance
  • Woolworths Insurance
  • Petinsurance
  • 1300 Insurance
  • Bow Wow Meow Pet Health Insurance
  • HCF
  • Medibank
  • Prime Pet Insurance
  • Pet Insurance Australia
  • Knose Pet Insurance
  • Vet’s Choice Insurance


By Brunker Road Veterinary Centre
Last updated on 17 December 2019

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Contact Us

Phone: 02 4957 2269
Fax: 02 4952 8666
Address: 278 Brunker Road, Adamstown NSW 2289

Our carpark entrance is via Victoria Street. We have a side path leading you from the carpark to our front entrance.

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Location & Email Us

Opening Hours

Mon - Fri 8.00am - 6.30pm
Saturday 8.00am - 4.00pm
Sun + Pub Hols. Closed

Consultations are by appointment.
Emergency cases take priority.

After Hours Care

After hours emergency service is provided by Newcastle Animal Emergency Centre (NAEC), at 4 Lang Road, Broadmeadow. Phone 02 4957 7106.

Testimonials

  • 5
    Fantastic practice. Cannot recommend highly enough. Had all 3 of my dogs there at various times for various issues over the past 2 years,and every vet & vet nurse I've seen have been very knowledgeable, professional & caring. Would go so far as to say the best vet practice/hospital in Newcastle/Lake Mac regions.
    Google Review March 2022
  • 5
    I've been taking my 2 dogs, a border collie and a kelpie, to Brunker Road Vet for years now and would highly recommend them to anyone. They are always so friendly, professional and very reassuring. Even my dogs don't mind visiting which is saying something!
    Google Review April 2021
  • 5
    I could not recommend Brunker Road Vets highly enough. From their vets to their nurses to their admin team - they are all excellent at their job, absolutely lovely to deal with and all genuinely love animals! We take our two dogs there and have only received exceptional care. Best vet in town.
    Google Review April 2022

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Brunker Road Veterinary Centre

Address 278 Brunker Road
Adamstown, NSW 2289

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Phone 02 4957 2269
Fax 02 4952 8666
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