The Shocking Truth About Property Insurance in Spain — And Why You Need Coverage
If you’re living in Spain as an expat, you already know how quickly a simple vet visit can turn into a stressful and expensive moment — especially when you’re not fully confident with the language or the healthcare system. Many expats only realise they need reliable protection after facing an unexpected bill.
Here’s the short answer: the best pet insurance is one that covers accidents, illness and liability, works with any licensed vet, and gives you clear support in English. In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to compare policies, understand what matters most, and choose the right cover for your pet without overpaying.
Why choosing the right pet insurance matters
The Spanish veterinary system is high-quality, but vet bills can vary widely. A strong pet insurance policy protects you from:
- High emergency costs
- Unexpected surgery or treatment
- Complications due to language barriers
- Regional rules about dog liability insurance
For expats, the right policy means peace of mind and financial protection.
What to look for when choosing pet insurance in Spain
1. Coverage for accidents and illness
This is the core of any good pet insurance. Make sure the plan includes:
- Emergency care
- Surgery
- Hospitalisation
- Diagnostics (blood tests, X-rays, scans)
- Medication
Avoid policies that only cover accidents unless you’re on a very limited budget.
2. Liability insurance for dogs
In many regions of Spain, dog owners — especially of large or strong breeds — must have liability cover. This protects you if your dog injures a person or damages property.
Choosing a plan that includes liability keeps you compliant with local rules.
3. Freedom to choose your vet
Good pet insurance should allow you to visit any licensed vet in Spain. Most insurers use a reimbursement model:
- You go to your preferred vet.
- You pay the bill.
- The insurer reimburses you.
This flexibility is especially helpful for expats who trust an English-speaking clinic.
4. Clear support in English
This is often the biggest pain point for expats. Make sure the insurer offers:
- English-speaking customer service
- Clear policy documents
- Easy-to-understand claims processes
In an emergency, clarity matters.
5. Coverage limits and exclusions
Compare the following:
- Annual coverage limit
- Per-incident limit
- Excess (deductible)
- Waiting periods
Also check what is excluded, such as:
- Pre-existing conditions
- Certain hereditary conditions
- Routine care unless added as an extra
The more transparent the policy, the better.
6. Optional extras worth considering
Some insurers offer add-ons that may be valuable:
- Routine care (vaccinations, dental cleaning)
- Overseas travel cover
- Theft or loss
- Behavioural treatment
Not essential for everyone, but useful depending on your lifestyle.
A simple step-by-step guide to choosing the best policy
Step 1: Think about your pet’s real needs
Age, breed and existing conditions all influence the ideal policy.
Step 2: Check coverage levels, not just price
A cheap policy with poor coverage often ends up costing more later.
Step 3: Compare at least two insurers
Look at limits, exclusions and claim processes.
Step 4: Make sure they offer support in English
This avoids misunderstandings when it matters most.
Step 5: Confirm liability cover if you have a dog
This alone can save you from serious financial problems.
Step 6: Choose a plan before a problem appears
Once your pet has symptoms, the condition becomes “pre-existing” and won’t be covered.
Common questions from expats
Is pet insurance required by law in Spain?
Not for all pets, but liability insurance may be mandatory depending on your region and dog breed.
Are pre-existing conditions covered?
No. These are excluded by all insurers.
Can I use my insurance at any vet?
Yes, most plans work on a reimbursement basis, giving you full flexibility.
Does pet insurance cover vaccines?
Only if you add routine care or choose a comprehensive plan.
How The Insurance Centre helps expats
At The Insurance Centre, we specialise in insurance for expats living in Spain. We compare top insurers, explain everything in simple English and help you choose a pet insurance that fits your pet and your lifestyle.
You get:
- Clear explanations
- Tailored quotes
- Support with Spanish regulations
- No language-barrier stress
Choosing the best pet insurance in Spain doesn’t have to be confusing. Now you know exactly what to check, what to avoid and how to compare policies confidently.
If you’d like a simple, personalised recommendation or a no-pressure quote, our team at The Insurance Centre is here to help you choose the right cover without the hassle.
About Our Team
At The Insurance Centre, we’ve been helping clients since 1999 with friendly, professional, and multilingual insurance services tailored especially for expatriates in Spain. We work with top-tier, reputable insurance providers and have proudly received awards for excellence in customer service and expat insurance for the past 10 years.
We are fully registered with the Dirección General de Seguros (DGS) and are members of the Colegio de Mediadores. Our team speaks English, Spanish, French, and Swedish, ensuring clear and confident communication with clients from around the world.
