Djurförsäkringen ur ett konsumentperspektiv

Sammanfattning: The longstanding companionship between humans and pets, particularly cats and dogs, has evolved to the point where they are considered integral members of the family. However, despite their elevated status in our lives, the legal classi- fication of pets as objects remains prevalent in insurance law. There is a certain dichotomy between the objectification of pets and the strong animal protection system we have in Sweden, which places a particularly high value on animal welfare. Swedish law regulates animal cruelty, emphasizing both prevention and punishment. Furthermore, the Swedish Supreme Court recognizes the justifica- tion of receiving compensation exceeding an animal's economic value for its care, distinguishing pets from mere material possessions.  In Sweden, we have a high rate of insured pets, and pet insurance policies differ significantly from other types of insurance. This divergence presents challenges for consumers in comprehending the coverage provided. With the insurance comes both terms and conditions that tell you what is and isn’t cov- ered by the insurance. The insurance has certain limitations, and for the set price you get just a certain amount of coverage. In recent years, rising veterinary costs have contributed to increased pet insurance premiums, leaving consumers with questions about pricing structures. The complexity of pricing extends to veterinary clinics offering advanced care and insurance companies responsible for covering these expenses. However, the absence of legal price limitations hampers transparency and hinders consumer understanding. Customers strug- gle to ascertain veterinary costs in advance and often question the reasons be- hind specific pet insurance prices, necessitating clearer communication from insurance providers regarding coverage and significant limitations.  This study delves into the associated problems and proposes potential solu- tions. Despite improvements in clarity over the past decade, challenges persist regarding pricing and the correlation between price and coverage. The study reveals weaknesses in consumer protection within the realm of pet insurance, even though consumers typically warrant protection as contracting parties. Non-functioning contractual obligations hinder free competition in the market, despite its foundational principles in the insurance sector. According to a report by the Swedish Competition Agency, addressing the limited opportunities for consumers to switch insurance providers, given the exclusion of pre-existing conditions, would alleviate some issues. The resulting market inefficiency arises from the fact that switching companies leads to reduced coverage compared to staying with the same provider. Despite its foundational principles in the insur- ance sector, addressing the limited opportunities for consumers to switch insurance providers, given the exclusion of pre-existing conditions, would alleviate some issues, as highlighted in a report by the Swedish Competition Agency. The resulting market inefficiency arises from the fact that switching companies leads to reduced coverage compared to staying with the same provider.  Additionally, the paper explores the intricate nature of pet insurance, with its numerous distinctive features, emphasizing the need for changes in the best interests of consumers. Certain insurance companies have already begun em- bracing digitalisation, offering free veterinary consultations to alleviate the bur- den on physical animal care. However, further initiatives and legislative amendments are likely necessary to address the challenges comprehensively.