---
title: Degenerative Myelopathy Pet Insurance Claim
description: It started with Shirley showing signs of lameness in her hind limbs. The diagnosis was severe, but Embrace was there to help cover the cost.
lastUpdated: 2025-10-02T19:05:48.000Z
sources:
  html: https://www.embracepetinsurance.com/coverage/customer-stories/illnesses/degenerative-myelopathy-bernese-mountain-dog
  md: https://www.embracepetinsurance.com/coverage/customer-stories/illnesses/degenerative-myelopathy-bernese-mountain-dog.md
---

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# Customer Stories



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[Customer Stories](/coverage/customer-stories)
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[Pet Insurance Claims Stories - Illness & Disease Claim Stories](/coverage/customer-stories/illnesses)
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[Degenerative Myelopathy](about:blank#)
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# Shirley's Story

![A cute Bernese Mountain Dog with a towel on its head looking all goofy unfortunately got diagnosed with Degenerative Myelopathy.](//images.ctfassets.net/cy68knbg9g5b/a5EMdkCIFLSeqOC0lp8uY/dd90b9021200a9c2835df253af80cebd/shirley-resized0def6e32c11e_139603b7-de85-45e8-b57e-f73df84569c4.webp?)
It started with Shirley showing signs of lameness in her hind limbs. The diagnosis was severe, but Embrace was there to help cover the cost.

### Vet Bill: $2,916

#### Background

At ten-years-old, Shirley the Bernese Mountain Dog began having some health problems. Her owner quickly noticed and immediately scheduled a vet appointment. Shirley was soon diagnosed with degenerative myelopathy.

#### Her pet parent, Julie, tells us more:

"Shirley and my five other dogs are my family and my constant source of support. Their health and happiness are a huge priority for me. So, when Shirley was suddenly diagnosed this winter with degenerative myelopathy, it was very upsetting. There is no cure for this diagnosis, which made it even harder. Stem cell therapy, however, can sometimes slow down the progression of the disease and I was so relieved to learn that Embrace covers it!

Without the help of Embrace, the financial aspect of caring for Shirley as she continues to battle this disease would have been overwhelming and incredibly stressful. I tell everyone I know how great Embrace is and my veterinarian does the same--you guys are fantastic! Not only has having pet insurance helped with the vet bills, but you are always so responsive and quick with filing claims!

After three stem cell treatments, and because of her twice-per-week swimming sessions, Shirley will get to see her 11th birthday in about two weeks, which will make her my longest-lived Bernese Mountain Dog. We plan on getting cheeseburgers and eating a banana peanut butter cake to celebrate! Thank you Embrace!"

## Shirley's Claim Refund

| **Claim Details** | **Amount** |
| --- | --- |
| Actual Vet Bill | $2,916.00 |
| Covered Charges | $2,666.00 |
| Annual Deductible | $250.00 |
| Copay | $533.00 |
| Total Embrace Reimbursement | $2,132.80 |



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