TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taipei is offering a pet insurance subsidy of up to NT$3,000 (US$93) to people who adopt dogs and cats from the city's animal shelter.
On Thursday (Sept. 19), the Taipei City Animal Protection Office announced that since pets do not have health insurance and medical costs are high, it will offer subsidies. Residents who adopt a dog or cat from the office's animal shelter and register with an approved insurance company can apply.
According to the office, one out of every three households in Taiwan has a pet. The office is promoting the subsidies to encourage owners to prioritize pet health.
The office reported that 30 pet insurance subsidy applications have been received this year, each eligible for the maximum subsidy. From those 30 applications, most pets are between four and five years old, with annual insurance premiums ranging from NT$4,000 to NT$5,000.
The office said since pets do not have national health insurance, owners bear significant medical expenses if their pets fall ill or are injured. It said pet insurance helps cover parts of outpatient visits, hospitalization, surgery, searching for lost pets, and funeral services.
In addition, if an owner is hospitalized, pet insurance can cover the cost of boarding at a pet hotel. It also covers compensation if the pet injures a third party, causes death, or damages property.
The office emphasized that pet insurance covers most additional costs incurred due to pet-related accidents. Those interested in purchasing insurance can refer to information from insurance companies, as coverage details vary between providers.
It recommends insuring young pets, while six insurance companies currently offer pet insurance.
Regarding subsidy eligibility, the office explained residents who adopt a pet from its shelter and complete spaying/neutering and rabies vaccinations can apply, as long as the insurance is valid.
The office plans to subsidize at least 200 pets this year. Pet owners can apply by visiting the Taipei City Government's Citizen Service Platform website, apply in person at the Taipei City Animal Protection Office, or by mailing the application to No. 109, Lane 600, Wuxing Street, Xinyi District, Taipei City, 110022.
The subsidy application deadline is Dec. 20 or until the budget is exhausted.
For more information on pet insurance, please visit the office's website under the "I Want" section to find “I Want to Apply for the Pet Insurance Subsidy.” Adoption information can be found on the National Animal Shelter Management System or the Taipei City Animal Protection Office Facebook page.
