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This content was reviewed and fact-checked by veterinarian Dr. Sandra Tashkovska, DVM.
Dogs are not just pets; they’re family members who bring joy, comfort, and companionship into our lives. But just like any family member, they can face unexpected health issues that require medical attention. I’ve been there—sitting in a vet’s office, faced with the tough decisions about how to afford the best possible care for my pet without breaking the bank. That’s when I realized the importance of having pet insurance. But with so many pet insurance options, how do you know which is the best pet insurance provider for your pet? It can feel overwhelming to sift through all the information. That’s why I’ve put together this guide. I want to help you navigate the world of pet insurance so you can find the plan that suits your pet’s needs and your budget.
Best Pet Insurances — At A Glance
Best Overall
Read Review ↆ
Best Personalized
Read Review ↆ
Best No-Cap Payouts
Healthy Paws
Great for covering major
medical or ongoing expenses.
Beneficial for high-risk breeds.
Read Review ↆ
Best Pre-Existing Conditions
Embrace
Ideal for pets with pre-existing conditions.
Provides coverage even with
prior health issues.
Read Review ↆ
Best For Traveling
Read Review ↆ
Best For Bilateral Conditions
Trupanion
Great for covering bilateral conditions.
Ensures treatment for issues
on both sides.
Read Review ↆ
Best Direct Payments
PetsBest
Pays your bill at-time of services
so you avoid paying high out-of-pocket
bill.
Visit Website
Read Review ↆ
Best For Exotic Pets
Read Review ↆ
Best Accident-Only
ASPCA
Excellent for alternative therapies.
Supports holistic treatments
and wellness care.
Read Review ↆ
Best For Puppies
Read Review ↆ
Why You Should Trust Us
375+
hours of research
40
companies tested
5
experts & studies consulted
10
pet insurance
companies recommended
We have tested and ratedthousands of dog products, including pet insurance companies. Our writers, editors, research team, and in-house veterinary review board spent hours analyzing these products to help you find what’s best for your dog. Read the product review methodology and editorial mission to find out how we test, analyze, and rate.
The Importance of Getting The Best Pet Insurance
Thebest pet insurance planscover a wide range of scenarios, from accidents like broken bones to illnesses such as cancer or diabetes and even curable pre-existing conditions. This means you can focus on your pet’s recovery rather than how you’ll pay for their treatment. In many cases, you also have the option to add a pet wellness plan, which covers the costs of routine vet visits, vaccinations, and other essential expenses needed to maintain your pet’s health.
Mitigates Common Health Issues Treatment Cost
As pets age, they are more likely to develop health problems. Pet insurance helps mitigate the cost of treating these health issues, ensuring you don’t have to choose between your pet’s health and financial stability. Every 6 seconds, a pet parent faces a vet bill of more than $1,000.
Preparedness For Emergencies
Like humans, pets can get injured or fall ill unexpectedly. Nearly 1 in 3 pets will require emergency veterinary treatment within a year. Emergency visits can be costly, with some pet owners facing bills upwards of $3,000 for a single incident.
Without pet insurance, should your pet develop a health condition or suffer an emergency, your out-of-pocket costs can be more than some can afford and could deplete their savings. In fact, over 40% of pet owners state that they would struggle to cover an unexpected $1,000 vet bill. Pet insurance ensures that owners can afford the care needed to maintain their pets’ quality of life as they age without hurting their finances.
Best Pet Insurance Companies
- Best Overall:Lemonade
- Best Personalized:Spot
- Best No-Cap Payouts:Healthy Paws
- Best Pre-Existing Conditions:Embrace
- Best For Traveling:Figo
- Best For Bilateral Conditions:Trupanion
- Best Direct Vet Payments:Pets Best
- Best For Exotic Pets:Nationwide
- Best Alternative Therapy:ASPCA
- :Pumpkin
- Best For Hospitalized Pets:Fetch By The Dodo
Best Overall Pet Insurance
4.8
★★★★★
Lemonade
Who It’s For: Ideal for pet owners seeking the most comprehensive coverage, managing policies, filing claims, & accessing customer support.
- Deductible: $100, $250, $500 or $750
- Reimbursem*nt rates: 70%, 80% or 90%
- Annual payout limit: $5,000, $10,000, $20,000, $50,000 or $100,000
Waiting period: 2 to 14 days
Age limit: 14 years old
Reimbursem*nt: 7 to 10 days
Avg dog premium: $10
Avg cat premium: $13 to $20
Why we recommended it: Lemonade is recommended for its affordability, user-friendly digital experience, and strong coverage options. It’s particularly noted for its fast claim processing and the flexibility to customize policies, making it a top choice for pet insurance.
What sets it apart from competitors: Lemonade stands out due to its AI-driven platform, which streamlines the entire process from enrollment to claims. It also offers competitive pricing and the option to donate unused premiums to charitable causes, aligning with socially conscious consumers.
- About the company: Lemonade was founded in April 2015 with the goal of providing the best, most delightful, and most transparent insurance experience in the world. The company offers hassle-free policies for renters (contents), homeowners, autos, pets, and life insurance in the U.S. and Europe. Lemonade underwrites, prices, sells and pays claims as a licensed and regulated insurer. Additionally, it is a certified B-Corp and a public benefit corporation, demonstrating its commitment to the community and the environment.
- Plans available: Accident and illness coverage, with additional wellness and preventative care packages.
- Enrollment fee: None.
- Claims process:It is entirely digital and is done through the Lemonade app. Once your claim is approved, they issue payment almost instantly.
- Eligible states and coverage:Available in 37 states and Washington, D.C.
- Medical exam:A medical record that includes info from a visit within the last 12 months. You can also sign up for your Lemonade policy and get your updated medical record together within 14 days. They must perform a full examination of your pet (SOAP notes).
- Cancelation: You can cancel your policy anytime with a prorated refund.
- 30-day free look period:Yes.
- Add-ons: Options for wellness care, dental illness, physical therapy, behavioral therapy and end-of-life coverage.
- Discount: 10% bundle discount, 5% multi-pet discount and 5% annual discount
- Public benefit corporation: In addition to making a profit, Lemonade is legally committed to positively impacting society and the environment.
- Limited availability: Lemonade is not available in all states.
- No unlimited coverage option: Unlike some competitors, Lemonade does not offer unlimited coverage.
- Other treatments: Behavioral conditions are not covered under Lemonade’s policies.
- Waiting period: 6 months for cruciate ligament injuries.
2. Best Pet Insurance For Personalized Coverage
4.8
★★★★★
Spot
Who It’s For: Pet owners seeking highly customizable coverage that can cater to their pet’s specific needs and budget.
- Deductible: $100, $250, $500, $750 or $1,000
- Reimbursem*nt rates: 70%, 80% or 90%
- Annual payout limit: $2,500 to Unlimited
Waiting period: 14 days
Age limit: Unlimited
Reimbursem*nt: Varies (State-dependent)
Avg dog premium: $15
Avg cat premium: $21 to $26
Why we recommended it: Spot is recommended for its extensive coverage options and the ability to personalize the plan to meet specific needs. The option for unlimited annual benefits and no upper age limit make it particularly appealing to pet owners who want comprehensive coverage without age restrictions.
What sets it apart from competitors: Spot differentiates itself with its no upper age limit for coverage, meaning older pets can receive full accident and illness coverage. Additionally, Spot offers unlimited annual benefit options and does not impose extra waiting periods for orthopedic conditions, which is a significant advantage over other insurers.
- About the company: The Spot Pet Insurance team is based in South Florida. Spot is a new pet insurance company founded in 2019. The company’s pet insurance is provided by Crum & Forster Pet Insurance, which was established in 1997. In other words, Spot’s claims, billing, and customer service are managed by Crum & Forster (C&F) Insurance Agency, Inc.
- Plans available: Accident-only and accident and illness plans, along with two levels of preventative care, Gold and Platinum.
- Enrollment fee: None.
- Claims process:Claims can be filed online or through the mobile app. They must be filed within 270 days of the occurrence.
- Eligible states and coverage:Available in 50 states.
- Medical exam:A medical exam is not required for enrollment, but Spot does review medical records for pre-existing conditions.
- Cancelation: Policies can be canceled anytime, and a prorated refund will be given for any unused portion of the premium.
- 30-day free look period:Spot offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to cancel within the first 30 days for a full refund if unsatisfied.
- 24/7 telehealth support: Spot customers have free access to a veterinarian helpline 24/7. If you’re having trouble managing your pet’s medication, need expert advice about whether emergency treatment is necessary, or are looking for typical treatments for your pet’s condition, you can call the helpline.
- Various coverage: One of the few companies offering full coverage (100%) without co-pay. The low deductible reduces out-of-pocket expenses, making it a good choice for elderly pets.
- Higher-than-average premiums: Spot’s premiums are generally higher than other providers, especially for more comprehensive plans.
- Transaction fees: Spot charges fees for monthly, quarterly, or semi-annual payments, which could add to the overall cost if you do not pay annually.
3. Best No-Cap Payouts Pet Insurance
4.9
★★★★★
Healthy Paws
Who It’s For: Particularly beneficial for those with pets prone to chronic conditions or requiring expensive treatments as there are no caps on claim payouts.
- Deductible: $100, $250, $500, $750 & $1,000
- Reimbursem*nt rates: 50%, 60%, 70%, 80% or 90%
- Annual payout limit: Unlimited
Waiting period: 15 days
Age limit: 14 years old
Reimbursem*nt: 2 days
Avg dog premium: $50
Avg cat premium: $19 to $25
Why we picked and recommended it: We recommend Healthy Paws for its unlimited coverage, eliminating the concern of hitting a financial cap during high-cost treatments. The company’s commitment to covering a wide range of conditions without skimping on coverage makes it a strong choice for pet owners seeking maximum coverage, no matter the amount. Real-time claim status tracking and cover breed-specific conditions.
What sets it apart from competitors: There are no maximum payout limits, and there are no per-incident, annual, or lifetime caps. Healthy Paws also offers holistic pet care, such as acupuncture and chiropractic care. Another unique feature is its coverage of alternative care, such as acupuncture, chiropractic, hydrotherapy, physical therapy, laser therapy, massage, herbal therapy, and homeopathy.
- About the company: In 2009, Healthy Paws Pet Insurance & Foundation was established as a non-profit organization that provides pet insurance coverage to pet owners while helping animal rescue organizations care for ill pets. The company partners with Aon Corporation, a global insurance broker with assets exceeding $30 billion. Healthy Paws’ policies are underwritten by the Chubb Group, an A+-rated insurer with over $25 billion in surplus.
- Plans available: Accident and illness plan
- Enrollment fee: A one-time administrative fee of $25 may apply in some states.
- Claims process:Claims can be submitted online via mobile app, email, fax, or mail. Must file claims within 90 days of the date of service.
- Eligible states and coverage:All 50 states.
- Medical exam:Pets 5 years old and below can use an exam from the last 12 months or within 15 days of enrollment. Pets 6 years old and above can use an exam within 30 days or the first 15 days of enrollment.
- Cancelation: You can cancel any time by mail, fax, email, or verbally, and you will receive a prorated refund.
- 30-day free look period:30-day money-back guarantee if you cancel within the first 30 days. Not available in all states.
- Gives back: With every pet insurance quote, they make a donation
- Travel coverage: Coverage in the U.S. or Canada (up to 3 months)
- Direct vet bill payment.Pays your clinic directly so you don’t have to pay a hefty vet bill in advance and wait for reimbursem*nt.
- Transferable policy: Policy can be transferred without a lapse in coverage, and pre-existing conditions will not be added. The new policyholder will pay the same amount as the previous one if they live in the same zip code. A rate adjustment may be necessary depending on the pricing endemic to the new zip code.
- Waiting period: 12 months for hip dysplasia coverage for pets enrolled before age six. Pets enrolled after age 6 aren’t eligible for hip dysplasia coverage (except in MD).
- No preventative care: No wellness or preventative care options, such as vaccinations or routine exams.
- Higher premiums for older pets: Premiums can increase significantly as your pet ages, especially for larger breeds.
- Coverage restriction: Pets older than 8 years old are restricted to specific limits.
- Enrollment limit: Pets over 4 years old in NY cannot be enrolled.
4. Best Pet Insurance For Pre-Existing Conditions
4.8
★★★★★
Embrace
Who It’s For: Perfect for addressing curable pre-existing conditions and for those with younger pets who want a policy that rewards them for maintaining their pet’s health over time.
- Deductible: $100, $250, $500, $750 or $1,000
- Reimbursem*nt rates: 70%, 80% or 90%
- Annual payout limit: $5,000, $8,000, $10,000, $15,000 & unlimited
Waiting period: 15 days
Age limit: 14 years old
Reimbursem*nt: 8 to 9 days
Avg dog premium: $50
Avg cat premium: $24 to $52
Why we recommended it: Embrace is recommended for its ability to cover curable pre-existing conditions after a 12-month symptom-free period, a rare feature in the pet insurance industry. It also covers what you’d expect but items not typically covered by most pet insurance companies, such as dental illnesses, exam fees, alternative therapies, and more.
What sets it apart from competitors: A unique feature is the Healthy Pet Deductible™, which reduces your deductible by $50 each year that you don’t file a claim, helping you save on out-of-pocket costs over time. Eventually, this could bring your deductible down to $0. Examples of curable pre-existing conditions include respiratory infections, urinary tract/bladder infections, vomiting, vomiting, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal disorders and other curable health problems.
- Discounts: Multiple pets get 10% off (5% in NY). Pay annually and get 5% off in NY. USAA customers are eligible for 15% off. There is a 5% military discount.
- 24/7 pet telehealth support: You can connect with a pet professional via live chat, video, or telephone 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
- Pet Cloud app:Submit claims using an AI chatbot named Evie. The chatbot stores and accesses medical records, offering 24/7 veterinary advice and a reminder function. Other features include a social platform, a nearby pet-friendly restaurant finder, dog parks, and other pet-related services.
- Preventive coverage: Optional plan for routine care, including vaccinations, grooming, and preventative treatments. Embrace will reimburse 100% of your pet’s routine wellness care costs.
- About the company: Embrace Pet Insurance was founded in 2003 and has positioned itself as a pet insurance leader in the industry. The company has been recognized with multiple awards, including the 2019InternationalServiceExcellence Service ChampionAward. Embrace Pet Insurance policies are underwritten by American Modern Insurance Group. A. M. Best Company rates American Modern A+ Superior. Aside from offering top-class pet insurance coverage, Embrace has a wellness rewards program that can be added to your policy.
- Plans available: Accident-only, accident and illness and optional wellness coverage through the Wellness Rewards program.
- Enrollment fee: $25
- Claims process:Must submit claims within60 daysof renewal to the next term(no deadline for wellness claims). You get paid via check or direct deposit.
- Eligible states and coverage:Available in all 50 states.
- Medical exam:Before coverage begins, you must have a comprehensive medical exam from within the past 12 months or visit your veterinarian within the first 14 days of your pet’s policy.
- Cancelation: Policies can be canceled at any time with a prorated refund.
- 30-day free look period:Embrace offers a 30-day money-back guarantee if you’re unsatisfied with your policy.
- Limited to dogs and cats: Embrace does not offer coverage for other pets like birds or reptiles.
- Orthopedic waiting period: 6-month waiting period for orthopedic conditions. However, it can be reduced to 14 days with a veterinarian’s orthopedic exam.
- 15-year-old limit:If your pet enrolls after its 15th birthday, it is eligible for the accident-only policy.
- Bilateral condition coverage restrictions
- $1.00 monthly transaction fee
5. Best Pet Insurance For Travelers
4.6
★★★★★
Figo
Who It’s For: Well-suited for pet owners who frequently travel with their pets, as it offers coverage at any licensed veterinarian worldwide.
- Deductible: $100, $250, $500 or $750
- Reimbursem*nt rates: 70%, 80%, 90% or 100%
- Annual payout limit: $5,000, $10,000 or unlimited
Waiting period: 1 to 14 days
Age limit: Unlimited
Reimbursem*nt: 7 to 14 days
Avg dog premium: $31
Avg cat premium: $17 to $38
Why we recommended it: Figo is recommended for pet owners who travel frequently because it offers coverage in any country. If you have a Figo plan, you may visit any licensed veterinarian worldwide, including specialists and emergency. If you are in a non-English-speaking country, you only need to translate the bill and medical records into English and the currency displayed in US dollars.
What sets it apart from competitors: Strong focus on technology and flexibility. The My Pet Cloud app allows pet owners to manage their pet’s health records, track claims, and access a 24/7 live vet service, making it highly convenient for frequent travelers.
- Faster claim process: Closing nearly half of claims within 24 hours (processes most claims within 3 days).
- Curable pre-existing conditions: Covers pre-existing conditions considered curable if they show no signs or symptoms within 12 months of treatment.
- 24/7 free vet helpline: With Figo’s Pet Cloud app, customers can access licensed veterinarians 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, at no extra cost.
- Decreasing deductible: The deductible decreases by $50 every year a policyholder is claim-free until it reaches zero.
- Personalized pet tag: Helps reunite you and your pet if they go missing.
- Discount: 5% multi-pet discount
- About the company: The company was founded in 2013 and is based in Chicago. Figo partners with Costco, so members of the retailer may be able to get discounts on their insurance. Insurers underwrite policies for Independence American Insurance Company and Markel American Insurance Company.
- Plans available: Figo offers three primary plans (Essential, Preferred, and Ultimate) with varying annual limits, and optional add-ons like wellness coverage.
- Enrollment fee: None
- Claims process:Claims can be filed via the My Pet Cloud app and are typically processed within a few days.
- Eligible states and coverage:Worldwide
- Medical exam:No initial exam is required, but existing medical records will be reviewed.
- Cancelation: Policies can be canceled at any time, with a prorated refund available.
- 30-day free look period:A full refund is available if you cancel within the first 30 days.
- Waiting period orthopeci: 6-month waiting period for orthopedic conditions unless an orthopedic exam is conducted within the first 30 days of the policy.
- No accident-only plan: Unlike some competitors, Figo does not offer a more affordable accident-only plan.
- Extra fee: $15 administration fee in some states
6. Best Pet Insurance For Bilateral Conditions
4.3
★★★★★
Trupanion
Who It’s For: Ideal for pet owners who want coverage for conditions that might affect both sides of their pet’s body, known as bilateral conditions such as hip dysplasia, cruciate ligament tears, and cataracts.
- Deductible: $0, $200, $700 or $1000
- Reimbursem*nt rates: 90%
- Annual payout limit: Unlimited
Waiting period: 5 to 30 days
Age limit: 14 years old
Repayment: 24 hours
Avg dog premium: Various
Avg cat premium: $29
Why we recommended it: Trupanion is highly recommended for its comprehensive coverage of bilateral conditions, a critical feature for pet owners whose pets are at risk for developing conditions that can affect both sides of the body, such as hip dysplasia and cruciate ligament tears. Bilateral conditions can be extremely costly to treat and might require long-term care.
What sets it apart from competitors: Trupanion’s policy structure, which allows for a per-condition lifetime deductible rather than an annual deductible, is particularly advantageous for managing bilateral conditions. This means that once you pay the deductible for a condition, it’s covered for life, even if the condition later affects the other side of the body.
- About the company: The company, based in Seattle, was founded in 2000 by Darryl Rawlings, its chief executive officer. As of 2007, Trupanion acquired American Pet Insurance Company, which underwrites its insurance policies. Currently, Trupanion offers and administers pet insurance in the United States, Canada, Australia, and Puerto Rico.
- Plans available: Base accident & illness, Recovery & complementary care rider, and Pet owners assistance package
- Enrollment fee: $35
- Claims process: Claims can be submitted for direct payment to the vet or for reimbursem*nt, and if not using direct vet payment, most are processed within 24 hours.
- Eligible states and coverage:This plan is available in all 50 states and covers care received in the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico.
- Medical exam:The Trupanion Exam Day program allows pet owners to bring their pets to the veterinarian for a checkup.
- Cancellation: Policies can be canceled at any time, with a prorated refund available.
- 30-day free look period:A full refund is available if you cancel within the first 30 days.
- Direct vet payment: Trupanion can pay your vet directly, minimizing out-of-pocket expenses at the time of care.
- Unlimited coverage: No annual, per-condition, or lifetime caps on payouts.
- Free 30-day coverage: If you obtain your pet from a participating shelter or breeder or treat it by a participating veterinarian, you will be eligible for free Trupanion coverage for 30 days.
- Coverage delay: 12-day delay before your coverage is effective.
- No wellness coverage: Routine care, such as vaccinations and dental cleanings, is not covered under Trupanion’s plan.
- High Premiums: Trupanion tends to be more expensive than other pet insurance options.
7. Best Direct Vet Payments
4.6
★★★★★
Pets Best
Who It’s For: Pet owners who don’t want out-of-pocket expenses at the time of service or for those who may not have immediate access to funds for expensive treatments or surgeries.
- Deductible: $50, $100, $200, $250, $500 or $1,000
- Reimbursem*nt rates: 70%, 80% or 90%
- Annual payout limit: $5,000 or unlimited
Waiting period: 3 to 14 days
Age limit: No upper age limit
Reimbursem*nt: 0 days*
Avg dog premium: $35
Avg cat premium: $22
Why we recommended it: Pets Best is highly recommended for pet owners who value the convenience of direct vet payments. This eliminates the need to pay large sums upfront and then wait for reimbursem*nt, which can be particularly valuable during emergencies or when dealing with high-cost treatments.
What sets it apart from competitors: Vet Direct Pay feature, Pets Best sends claims reimbursem*nt directly to the veterinarian, so you only have to pay your deductible, co-insurance amount and any non-covered items.
- About the company: Dr. Jack Stephens, who is regarded as the “father” of the pet insurance industry in North America, founded Pets Best in 2005. The organization’s mission is to provide comprehensive animal health care at an affordable price. In 2019, Synchrony (NYSE: SYF) acquired the company. In addition to being a founding member of NAPHIA, Pets Best strives to ensure the highest standards of transparency and integrity in the pet insurance industry.
- Plans available: Accident-only plan, accident and illness plans, and wellness plans
- Enrollment fee: None
- Claims process:Claims can be filed online, through the mobile app, or via email, with most claims processed within 5 days. Direct vet payment is available at participating veterinary practices.
- Eligible states and coverage:Available in the U.S. and Canada.
- Medical exam:No medical exam is required for enrollment, but existing medical records may be reviewed.
- Cancelation: Policies can be canceled at any time, and a prorated refund is available.
- 30-day free look period:Available.
- Over 15 years of experience: Since 2005, Pets Best has paid out over $500 million in claims.
- Pet helpline: Veterinary experts are available 24 hours a day to answer your pet’s health questions.
- Discount: Multipet discount of 5% per pet
- No alternative medicine coverage: While chiropractictreatments and acupuncture are covered, Pets Best does not cover herbal, holistic, or experimental therapies, food, or supplements.
- Cruciate ligament waiting period: Six months.
8. Best For Exotic Pets
4.4
★★★★★
Nationwide
Who It’s For: A top choice for pet owners who have exotic pets, such as birds, reptiles, or small mammals, in addition to cats and dogs.
- Deductible: $100, $250 or $500
- Reimbursem*nt rates: 50%, 70% or 80%
- Annual payout limit: $10,000
Waiting period: 14 days
Age limit: No upper age limit
Reimbursem*nt: 30 days
Avg dog premium: $35
Avg cat premium: $25 to $45
Why we recommended it: Nationwide is highly recommended for its extensive coverage options for exotic pets, something that other major pet insurance providers rarely offer. It is a go-to option for pet owners with birds, reptiles, amphibians, or other non-traditional pets who want comprehensive protection against accidents and illnesses.
What sets it apart from competitors: Unlike other pet insurance companies, this company calculates the claim repayment based on the vet’s receipt, which may cover what you paid. Pet parents can expect to be reimbursed the maximum coverage amount per incident when they file a claim with Nationwide.
- About the company: Headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, Nationwide offers a wide range of insurance products, retirement products, investments, auto, home, and pet insurance. The company was founded more than 90 years ago as a small auto insurer. In 2009, Nationwide purchased Veterinary Pet Insurance, the USA’s first pet insurance provider. The National Casualty Company provides underwriting for the company’s pet insurance. Currently, more than 1 million pets are insured by this company.
- Plans available: Major Medical, Whole Pet with Wellness, and Avian & Exotic Pet insurance. Each plan varies in coverage and cost, catering to different needs and budgets.
- Enrollment fee: None.
- Claims process:Claims can be submitted online, via the mobile app, or by mail, and processing times are typically around 30 days.
- Eligible states and coverage:Available in all 50 states of the United States.
- Medical exam:They require a medical exam.
- Cancelation: Policies can be canceled at any time, and a prorated refund is available.
- 10-day free look period: 100% refund if you cancel your policy within 10 days of the start date.
- Trajectory and recognition: Founded by a group of veterinarians four decades ago, Nationwide now protects more than 1.1 million pets.
- A bundle discount is available: 5% off on a new pet health insurance policy, or 10% off when insuring three or more animals.
- Travel coverage: Covers your pet if they travel outside the U.S. with you.
- Telehealth line: 24/7 pet telemedicine.
- Age limit restriction: Pets must be under 10 years of age to enroll
- Limited reimbursem*nt options: 90% and 100% not available.
- Waiting period: Six months to one year for cruciate ligament issues and hip dysplasia.
9. Best Pet Insurance For Alternative Therapy Coverage
4.6
★★★★★
ASPCA Pet Health
Who It’s For: Excellent for pet owners seeking coverage for alternative therapies such as acupuncture, chiropractic care, and hydrotherapy.
- Deductible: $100, $250, $250 or $500
- Reimbursem*nt rates: 70%, 80% or 90%
- Annual payout limit: $2,500, $5,000, $7,000 or $10,000
Waiting period: 2 to 14 days
Age limit: 14 years old
Reimbursem*nt: 7 to 10 days
Avg dog premium: $35 to $65
Avg cat premium: $25 to $45
Why we recommended it: ASPCA Pet Insurance is recommended for its robust coverage options, including alternative therapies. Under the standard plan, you don’t have to purchase additional riders or plans to get coverage for treatments like acupuncture or chiropractic care.
What sets it apart from competitors: You can get coverage for inherited conditions and congenital disabilities that don’t show symptoms until later in your pet’s life. These include heart disease, intervertebral disk disease (IVDD), eye conditions, and hip dysplasia.
- Covers pet microchipping
- Multipet discount of 10%
- About the company: The ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) is a non-profit organization dedicated to preventing cruelty to animals. Since 1997, the ASPCA has offered pet insurance through PTZ Insurance Agency, Ltd., to protect the greater well-being of animals.
- Plans available: Accident-only plans, comprehensive accident and illness plans, and wellness add-ons. Alternative therapy coverage is included in the accident and illness plans.
- Enrollment fee: None.
- Claims process:Claims can be filed online, via mobile app, or by mail, with processing times generally between 14 and 30 days.
- Eligible states and coverage:Available in the US and Canada.
- Medical exam:No initial medical exam is required for enrollment, but existing medical records may be reviewed, especially if illness coverage is added later.
- Cancellation: Policies can be canceled at any time, and a prorated refund is available.
- 30-day free look period:ASPCA offers a 30-day money-back guarantee if you cancel within the first 30 days and no claims have been filed.
- Limited annual payout: The highest annual coverage option is only $10,000.
- Takes time to get reimbursed: Claims may take up to 30 days.
10. Best For Puppies & Kittens
4.5
★★★★★
Pumpkin
Who It’s For: Pet owners who have puppies or kittens, as it offers comprehensive coverage tailored to the needs of young pets.
- Deductible: $100, $250, $500 or $1,000
- Reimbursem*nt rates: 90%
- Annual payout limit: $10,000, $20,000 or unlimited
Waiting period: 14 days
Age limit: Unlimited
Reimbursem*nt: 14 to 30 days
Avg dog premium: $30 to $50
Avg cat premium: $20 to $40
Why we recommended it: Pumpkin is recommended for its comprehensive coverage specifically designed to meet the needs of puppies and kittens. Pumpkin’s plans include coverage for vaccines, annual wellness exams, and even parasite prevention, which are essential for young pets.
What sets it apart from competitors: The company offers a preventative essentials plan that covers a wellness exam, up to four vaccines, and a fecal test once a year, starting at age eight weeks.
- Covers microchip implantation with a standard policy
- No special waiting period for problems like knee injuries or hip dysplasia
- Provides advanced treatment coverage: As long as the treatments are prescribed and performed by a veterinarian, Pumpkin will cover acupuncture, stem cell therapy, and even behavioral therapy.
- About the company: Pumpkin Insurance Services, Inc. is based in New York City. Founded during the COVID-19 pandemic of April 2020, it is one of the newest pet insurance companies. Zoetis, a global veterinary drug and vaccine manufacturer, founded it. Pumpkin’s policies are underwritten by the United States Fire Insurance Company and provided by Crum & Forster Pet Insurance Group, which has a rating of A (excellent).
- Plans available: Accident and illness plans with optional preventive care add-ons.
- Enrollment fee: None.
- Claims process:Claims can be submitted online.
- Eligible states and coverage:Available in all 50 states and Canada.
- Medical exam:You must have your pet examined 30 days before or 15 days after the effective date of your policy if your pet is over the age of 6. Pumpkin policy states, “Failure to submit your pet to a complete clinical examination may void the policy.”
- Cancellation: Policies can be canceled anytime, and a prorated refund is available.
- 30-day free look period: 30-day money-back guarantee if you cancel within the first 30 days and no claims have been filed.
- Higher premiums for older pets: While premiums for puppies and kittens are competitive, they can be higher for older pets, which may be a consideration if you have multiple pets of different ages.
- No accident-only plan: Does not offer a more affordable accident-only plan, which some pet owners may prefer.
Other Top-Rated Pet Insurance Companies
- Best Pet Insurance for lost pets: Fetch by The Dodo is ideal for pet owners who want comprehensive coverage that includes protection against lost pets. It’s especially beneficial for those who prioritize the safety and recovery of their pets in case they go missing. It offers reimbursem*nt for advertising and rewards if your pet goes missing.
- Best Pet Insurance for seniors: Pet Assure is not a traditional insurance policy but a veterinary discount plan, which benefits older pets who may not qualify for new insurance due to age or pre-existing conditions. It provides discounts on all in-house medical services at participating veterinarians, with no exclusions for pre-existing conditions, making it a great option for senior pets that need regular care.
- Best pet insurance for discounts and perks: MetLife offers a variety of discounts, including multi-pet, military, and employee benefits discounts, making it highly attractive for those looking to save money. It also provides perks like 24/7 telehealth services and fast claim processing, adding extra value beyond traditional coverage.
- Best pet insurance for wellness plans: Wagmo excels with its wellness plans, which cover routine care such as vaccinations, grooming, and flea and tick prevention. These plans can be paired with traditional insurance for comprehensive coverage, making them perfect for pet owners who prioritize preventive care.
- Best pet insurance for affordable rates: ManyPets is recognized for offering some of the most competitive pricing in the pet insurance market, without sacrificing the quality of coverage. It’s ideal for budget-conscious pet owners who still want solid protection for their pets.
- Best pet insurance for breed-specific conditions: AKC Pet Insurance offers tailored plans that cover breed-specific conditions, which is particularly valuable for purebred pets prone to hereditary issues. It ensures that breed-related health problems are adequately covered.
- Best pet insurance for catastrophic coverage: Hartville Pet Insurance offers comprehensive coverage with high annual limits, suitable for catastrophic events or illnesses that require extensive and expensive care. It provides peace of mind in severe situations.
- Best pet insurance for military families: USAA offers pet insurance with special discounts and perks tailored for military families. While the insurance is provided through Embrace, USAA members benefit from unique discounts and customer service designed to meet their needs.
The Bottom Line
It’s essential to thoroughly read your policy and understand what is covered, what is excluded, and any limitations or conditions. Familiarize yourself with terms like deductibles, co-pays, and reimbursem*nt rates to avoid surprises when you need to file a claim.
Pet insurance is an essential tool for managing your pet’s healthcare costs, providing peace of mind, and ensuring your pet receives the best care possible. The right plan can protect you from unexpected expenses and give your pet a long, healthy life. Don’t wait until an emergency arises. Take the time now to compare pet insurance plans and choose one that fits your pet’s needs and your budget.
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Canine Bible authorship represents the unified voice of our entire editorial team and our in-house veterinarians rather than a single author. Each article, blog post, and review published under the Canine Bible name undergoes a rigorous review process, involving all team members to guarantee accuracy and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research. This collaborative effort is an integral part of our editorial process and aligns with our four pillars of content creation. This approach ensures our content is backed by expert knowledge and factual information, offering our readers reliable, actionable, and trustworthy content.
