Four very good reasons to get pet insurance for Yorkshire Terriers
Yorkies are eternally in-demand pets. Bursting with character, conveniently sized – especially for apartment-dwellers, kids and senior citizens – they’re both entertaining and affectionate (if a little feisty!). But all dog breeds are prone to certain health issues and they’re no exception, which is why it’s smart to get pet insurance for Yorkshire Terriers.
Here are four common medical problems you’ll find with Yorkies.
Dislocating kneecap
Covered by insurance!
Technically known as a ‘luxating patella’, this sees the kneecap slip out of place and, yes, it is as painful as it sounds. Not only that, it can lead to lifelong arthritis, which is horrible, especially in a young dog. It’s sadly common in Yorkshire Terriers and best detected as young as possible, so pet parents should look out for unusual movements or limps. It’s not cheap to treat, either, with surgery costing up to $5,000 and arthritis treatment up to $2,000 per year. It makes pet insurance for Yorkshire Terriers a smart financial move.
Hypoglycaemia
Covered by insurance!
This is another nasty condition that affects dogs at a young age, particularly in smaller breeds like Yorkshire Terriers. It’s a sudden drop in blood sugar levels that can require intensive care – at a cost of $500-$3,000 – and is often caused by poor quality or not enough food, dehydration, and stress. It’s a reminder that your pet’s health is a holistic thing, with nutrition and emotional health a big part of that, which is why a wellness plan with regular vet check-ups is always worth considering.
Dental issues
Covered by insurance!
With tiny faces come tiny mouths and, while they also produce cute tiny smiles, they often restrict the space available for a dog’s teeth to grow. It makes things a bit crowded in there, which can lead to a build-up of tartar and an increased risk of gum disease. Bacteria can also spread to the liver and kidneys, causing more serious problems. All in, you’re looking at vet bills ranging from $250-$3,000 to diagnose and treat dental issues. This is why a wellness plan that includes regular dental checks are such a good idea – that and regularly cleaning your dog’s teeth, of course.
Tracheal collapse
Covered by insurance!
This is another nasty problem that comes with Yorkies’ size. Smaller dogs are more prone to breathing problems, which in this case is the flattening or narrowing of the trachea – something which can be fatal. Experts think it’s either genetic or related to other common conditions, such as heart disease. Medication, often steroids, can cost up to $100 per week, and corrective surgery up to $6,500.
But it's not just medical conditions that pet insurance covers against – accidents happen too. In 2021, one insurer paid out an eye-watering $50,602 after an unfortunate Terrier Mix suffered injuries from being hit by a car in Brooklyn, New York.
