Dai-ichi iPet adds pet consultation service and launches lower-cost coverage option

Japan’s Dai-ichi iPet Insurance will introduce a new pet consultation service and implement product changes in October 2026, including the launch of a lower-cost insurance plan and premium increases for some policies.

Starting October 1, all policyholders will gain access to “Consult with Experts via Video of My Pet,” a free, unlimited consultation service provided by Pets All Right. Available 24/7 through the insurer’s customer portal, the service allows pet owners to upload videos and receive advice from veterinarians, dog trainers, and pet nutrition experts. The service covers dogs, cats, rabbits, ferrets, and guinea pigs.

On October 2, Dai-ichi iPet will also introduce a 50% reimbursement option for its “My Pet Light” insurance product, which previously only offered a 90% coverage plan. The insurer said the new option is intended to broaden affordability and expand customer choice.

The company is also increasing premiums for dogs aged one year and older enrolled in the 70% and 50% reimbursement plans under its flagship “My Pet” product, citing changes in the pet care environment, advances in veterinary medicine, and rising medical costs driven by inflation. Premiums for cats and dogs enrolled in the 30% plan will remain unchanged.

Other changes include replacing the existing multi-pet discount with a fixed-amount multi-contract discount and extending outpatient coverage to include certain veterinarian-directed online consultations and prescriptions.