Pet health checks

Just like humans, your pet can experience health issues at any point in their lifetime, some of which can be hard for you to spot. It’s important that your pet has a regular vet check to help keep them fit and healthy and to give you peace of mind.

John Lewis Pet Insurance includes an annual online health check provided by vetfone™ with a trained veterinary professional. This service is designed to help you discuss any issues your pet might be having before they become serious. It should not be used as a replacement for an in-person vet check-up. Instead, you can use it to ask questions about your pet’s health and receive advice.

What is a pet health check?

A pet health check is an examination undertaken by a vet to assess your pet's general health. It is different from a vet visit when your pet is unwell. The aim of a pet health check is to help prevent illnesses or conditions from developing or catch them early to stop them from progressing. It also gives the vet time to administer any necessary vaccinations or boosters.

Pet health checks are a proactive step to help protect the health of your pet and help reduce nasty surprises. It is suggested that you take your pet for a health check at least once a year (a bit like the pet version of an MOT). This can help make sure they’re not having any health problems that you may not have spotted yourself.

During a pet health check a vet will typically look over your pet’s entire body, all the way to the tip of their tail! This includes their eyes, teeth and joints, to check for any changes in condition since their last assessment. The vet will also ask you a series of questions checking for any changes in your pet’s behaviour or general demeanour that could indicate a health issue.

John Lewis Pet Insurance includes a free annual online health check for your pet with a fully-trained pet practitioner, over the phone or video chat. This gives you the opportunity to discuss any worries you may have about your pet’s health or behaviour without having to go straight to an in-person vet. This shouldn’t be used as a replacement for an in-person vet check-up but could be a good source for early information.

If you’d like to book your pet’s annual online health check, you can ring 0800 316 7119 or sign in to your online account to choose a slot.

If you have an immediate concern about your pet's health you can also speak to an advisor through our vetfone™ helpline on 0800 316 7119.

Does pet insurance cover vet visits?

You can make a claim on your pet insurance for vet treatment bills and some medications. For example, if your pet needs surgery or a course of prescription anti-inflammatory tablets, you should be able to make a claim with your pet insurance for the cost of the treatment. As long as it wasn’t to treat an accident, injury or illness that your policy excludes or that began before you took out the policy.

Pet annual health checks may not be covered by pet insurance, as claims can only be made if your pet requires treatment (if they are unwell or injured). If you took your pet to the vet and they were in good health, you wouldn’t be able to make a claim. Your vet would, however, charge you for the visit.

John Lewis Pet Insurance's free annual online health check gives you the opportunity to discuss your pet’s health without paying a fee. This service is not a replacement for an in-person physical check-up with a vet. It does allow you to receive lifestyle and diet advice for your pet without having to foot the bill.