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We analyzed pet insurance providers nationwide to identify those offering the most well-rounded coverage, strong financial stability, positive customer experiences, competitive pricing, efficient claims processing, and flexible plan options. Based on our assessment, here are the top pet insurance companies in the U.S.
Pets Best Review: Best Overall
5.0/5 
Canine Journal Rating
Sample dog rate: $24.66
Sample cat rate: $14.37
Pros
- Superior dental coverage
- No upper age limits
- Possible direct vet payments
- One of the most affordable options
Cons
- 6 month wait for cruciate ligament issues
- Exam fees & alternative therapy require upgrade
Summary
Pets Best stands out for its balance of affordability and extensive coverage, making it a top choice for pet owners seeking flexibility. Its plans are highly customizable, allowing policyholders to select coverage options that suit their needs, including exam fees, acupuncture, rehabilitation, and chiropractic care. With no upper age limits, even senior pets can receive full coverage without restrictions, ensuring peace of mind for pet owners at every stage of their pet’s life.
At A Glance
- Age Restrictions: 7+ weeks, no upper limit
- Waiting Periods: 3 days (accidents), 14 days (illnesses), 6 months (cruciate)
- Claim Processing: ~10 days
- Plans: Accident & illness, accident-only, wellness add-ons
- Reimbursements: 70%, 80%, 90%
- Deductibles: $50, $100, $200, $250, $500, $1,000
- Payouts: $5K, $10K, unlimited
Fetch Review: Best For Puppies & Kittens
4.9/5 Canine Journal Rating
Sample dog rate: $29.15
Sample cat rate: $23.75*
Pros
- Alternative therapies, massage therapy, supplements & exam fees included
- Superior dental coverage
- Coverage starts at 6 weeks old
Cons
- 15-day accident waiting period
- 6-month wait for cruciate ligaments & hip dysplasia
Summary
Fetch offers comprehensive alternative therapy coverage, including acupuncture, physical therapy, hydrotherapy, chiropractic care, massage, and laser therapy, benefits often excluded by other providers. It includes up to $1,000 annually for behavioral therapy and VirtualVet visits each. Coverage starts at six weeks old and includes exam fees at no extra cost. Unique perks like advertising and reward reimbursements for lost pets make Fetch a strong choice for extensive pet care starting at a young age.
At A Glance
- Age Restrictions: 6+ weeks, no upper limit
- Waiting Periods: 15 days (accidents & illnesses), 6 months (cruciate & hip dysplasia)
- Claim Processing: 10-15 days
- Plans: Accident & illness, wellness add-on
- Reimbursements: 70%, 80%, 90%
- Deductibles: $250, $300, $400, $500, $700
- Payouts: $5K, $10K, $15K
*$500 deductible unavailable; opted for $400
Healthy Paws Review: Best For Unlimited Coverage
3.5/5 Canine Journal Rating
Sample dog rate: $31.92*
Sample cat rate: $15.83*
Pros
- Unlimited claim payouts
- 50% of claims are paid in 2 days
- 15-day cruciate ligament wait (shorter than most)
- Possible direct vet payment
Cons
- 12-month wait for hip dysplasia (excluded if enrolled after 6)
- No wellness plan
- Limited coverage for older pets
Summary
Healthy Paws provides unlimited annual and lifetime coverage on all plans, ensuring pet owners never hit a payout cap and always receive reimbursement for eligible claims after meeting their deductible. This helps reduce economic euthanasia, allowing pets to receive life-saving treatments without financial constraints. Compared to other providers, Healthy Paws offers some of the most affordable unlimited payout plans. Its straightforward, all-inclusive coverage makes it a great choice for pets with serious or chronic conditions—as long as they’re enrolled before symptoms appear.
At A Glance
- Age Restrictions: 8+ weeks, no older than 14
- Waiting Periods: 15 days (accidents & illnesses), 12 months (hip dysplasia)
- Claim Processing: 2-15 days
- Plans: Accident & illness
- Reimbursements: 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%
- Deductibles: $100, $250, $500, $750, $1,000
- Payouts: Unlimited
*Max reimbursement available: 70% (dogs), 80% (cats), unlimited payouts
Figo Review: Best For 100% Reimbursement
4.8/5 Canine Journal Rating
Sample dog rate: $28.97
Sample cat rate: $20.96
Pros
- 1-day accident wait
- 100% reimbursement option
- Among the lowest prices
- Diminishing deductible
Cons
- Exam fee coverage requires add-on
- 6-month wait for orthopedic conditions
Summary
Figo is ideal for pet owners seeking a 100% reimbursement option and a short accident waiting period. It offers an intuitive mobile app, a unique social pet cloud, and fast claim processing (averaging three days). With customizable plans, competitive pricing, and coverage for alternative therapies, Figo stands out among providers. It also features a diminishing deductible, decreasing by $50 each claim-free year until it reaches $0.
At A Glance
- Age Restrictions: 8+ weeks, no upper limit
- Waiting Periods: 1 day (accidents), 14 days (illnesses), 6 months (orthopedic conditions)
- Claim Processing: 3 days
- Plans: Accident & illness, wellness add-ons
- Reimbursements: 70%, 80%, 90%, 100%
- Deductibles: $100, $250, $500, $750
- Payouts: $5K, $10K, unlimited
Embrace Review: Best Coverage
4.5/5 Canine Journal Rating
Sample dog rate: $44.73
Sample cat rate: $23.57
Pros
- Includes behavioral therapies, complementary care, gum disease & tooth extractions
- Diminishing deductible
- Short 2-day accident wait & 5-day claim processing
Cons
- Accident-only coverage if enrolled after 15th birthday
- Exam fees & prescription drugs require add-on
Summary
Embrace provides comprehensive accident and illness coverage, with extensive dental benefits, including tooth extractions for both accidents and illnesses and endodontic disease for all teeth. It also covers behavioral therapy and training for anxious, aggressive, or destructive dogs, a benefit many insurers exclude. Embrace stands out for its diminishing deductible and minimal exclusions, making it a top choice for thorough pet coverage.
At A Glance
- Age Restrictions: 6+ weeks, no older than 14 for illness coverage
- Waiting Periods: 2 days (accidents), 14 days (illnesses), 6 months (cruciate, hip dysplasia, intervertebral disc disease [IVDD], patellar luxation)
- Average Claim Processing: 5 days
- Plans: Accident & illness, accident-only, wellness add-ons
- Reimbursements: 70%, 80%, 90%
- Deductibles: $100, $250, $500, $750, $1,000
- Payouts: $2K, $5K, $8K, $10K, $15K, unlimited
Lemonade Review: Most Affordable
3.5/5 Canine Journal Rating
Sample dog rate: $26.96
Sample cat rate: $16.13
Pros
- Affordable & highly customizable plans
- AI-driven claims for fast processing
- Bundling discounts with other Lemonade policies
- Donates to charities chosen by customers
Cons
- Limited state availability
- Newer to pet insurance than competitors
- Age-based breed restrictions
Summary
Lemonade entered the pet insurance market in 2020, quickly gaining attention for its low premiums and AI-driven claims processing, which can reimburse some claims in minutes. While it’s not yet available in all 50 states, its rapid growth and expanding coverage make it an insurer to watch. Lemonade is a strong option for budget-conscious pet owners who want customizable plans and fast reimbursements.
At A Glance
- Age Restrictions: 8+ weeks, breed-based maximums
- Waiting Periods: 2 days (accidents), 14 days (illnesses), 30 days (hip dysplasia & other orthopedic conditions), 6 months (cruciate)
- Claim Processing: 2 days
- Plans: Accident & illness, wellness add-ons
- Reimbursements: 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%
- Deductibles: $100, $250, $500, $750
- Payouts: $5K, $10K, $20K, $50K, $100K
Trupanion Review: Best For Direct Vet Payments
3.8/5 Canine Journal Rating
Sample dog rate: $70.68*
Sample cat rate: $44.42*
Pros
- Unlimited payouts
- Vet Direct Pay—no reimbursement wait
- 30-day wait for cruciate ligaments & hip dysplasia
- Only insurer covering herbal therapy, naturopathy & homeopathy
Cons
- Higher premiums than competitors
- No enrollment for pets 14+
- No coverage for exam fees
Summary
Trupanion stands out for its Vet Direct Pay feature, which allows instant payment to veterinarians at checkout, eliminating the need for reimbursement. While some insurers offer direct pay options, Trupanion is the only one that processes payments at the time of service. It also has no payout limits, making it a solid choice for pet owners concerned about high medical costs. If your vet doesn’t accept Vet Direct Pay, you can ask them about setting it up or contact Trupanion for more information.
At A Glance
- Age Restrictions: Less than 14
- Waiting Periods: 5 days (accidents), 30 days (illnesses)
- Claim Processing: 2 days
- Plans: Accident & illness
- Reimbursements: 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 100%
- Deductibles: $0-$1,000 (in $5 increments)
- Payouts: Unlimited
*All Trupanion plans have unlimited payouts
AKC Pet Insurance Review: Best For Pre-Existing Conditions
3.8/5 Canine Journal Rating
Sample dog rate: $24.96
Sample cat rate: $24.44
Pros
- Covers pre-existing conditions after 365 days (excludes FL & WA)
- Optional coverage for breeding-related issues
- Covers supplements
- Only wellness plan covering elective gastropexy
Cons
- No illness coverage for pets 9+, no accident coverage for pets 14+
- Congenital & hereditary coverage sold separately (included by most insurers)
Summary
AKC Pet Insurance is the only provider that covers pre-existing conditions after one year of continuous coverage (excluding FL & WA). This can be game-changing for pet owners with dogs managing chronic illnesses or past conditions. While some insurers cover curable conditions, AKC Pet Insurance extends coverage to all pre-existing conditions after 12 months.
At A Glance
- Age Restrictions: 9 years for illnesses, 14 or younger for accidents
- Waiting Periods: 2 days (accidents), 14 days (illnesses), 30 days (hip dysplasia & alternative therapies), 180 days (IVDD & cruciate)
- Claim Processing: 2 days
- Plans: Accident & illness, accident-only, wellness add-on
- Reimbursements: 70%, 80%, 90%
- Deductibles: $100, $250, $300, $400, $500, $600, $750, $1,000
- Payouts: $2.5K, $5K, $7.5K, $10K, unlimited
ASPCA Pet Health Insurance Review: Best Accident-Only Plan
4.2/5 Canine Journal Rating
Sample dog rate: $42.23
Sample cat rate: $24.18
Pros
- Covers massage therapy, supplements, exam fees & prescription food
- No extended orthopedic wait
- Most customizable accident-only plan
Cons
- Claims take 15-30 days
- Max annual payout is $10K
- No coverage for dental disease
Summary
ASPCA Pet Health Insurance offers the most customizable accident-only plan with the fewest restrictions, even covering cruciate ligament injuries. Unlike most accident-only policies, you can choose your deductible ($100-$500), reimbursement (70%-90%), and annual limit ($3,000-$10,000). There are no upper age limits, and you can add a wellness plan, which most providers only offer with accident and illness coverage. This makes ASPCA’s accident-only plan a great choice for pet owners wanting flexibility in this coverage type.
At A Glance
- Age Restrictions: 8+ weeks, no upper limit
- Waiting Periods: 14 days (accidents & illnesses)
- Claim Processing: 15-30 days
- Plans: Accident & illness, accident-only, wellness add-ons
- Reimbursements: 70%, 80%, 90%
- Deductibles: $100, $250, $500
- Payouts: $3K, $4K, $5K, $7K, $10K
Spot Pet Insurance Review: Best Customizable Plans
4.1/5 Canine Journal Rating
Sample dog rate: $44.23
Sample cat rate: $26.18
Pros
- No upper age enrollment limit
- Affordable wellness plans
- Includes behavioral & alternative therapies, supplements, Rx food & exam fees
- Only a 14-day wait for cruciate ligaments & hip dysplasia
Cons
- Higher premiums for older pets
- 14-day accident waiting period
- No coverage for dental disease
Summary
Founded in 2019, Spot Pet Insurance offers extensive plan customization. You can choose between accident-only or accident & illness coverage, add a wellness plan, and adjust your deductible, reimbursement, and payout limits. These flexible options make it easier to tailor coverage to fit your budget.
At A Glance
- Age Restrictions: 8+ weeks, no upper limit
- Waiting Periods: 14 days (accidents & illnesses)
- Claim Processing: 5-7 days
- Plans: Accident & illness, accident-only, wellness add-ons
- Reimbursements: 70%, 80%, 90%
- Deductibles: $100, $250, $500, $750, $1,000
- Payouts: $2.5K, $3K, $4K, $5K, $7K, $10K, unlimited
Nationwide Pet Insurance Review: Best For Exotic Pets
3.9/5 Canine Journal Rating
Sample dog rate: $40.38*
Sample cat rate: $22.75*
Pros
- Covers cats, dogs, birds, reptiles & exotic pets
- 14-day hip dysplasia waiting period
Cons
- 1-year wait for cruciate ligaments
- Major Medical Plan has per-condition payout limits
- Age restrictions for pets 10+
Summary
Nationwide is one of the only major pet insurers offering coverage for exotic pets alongside dogs and cats. If you have a bird, reptile, rabbit, ferret, or other small mammal, Nationwide provides insurance options that cover unexpected vet visits. Depending on your plan, coverage may include accidents, illnesses, and even end-of-life expenses. This makes Nationwide a top choice for exotic pet owners seeking comprehensive coverage.
At A Glance
- Age Restrictions: Less than 10 for illnesses
- Waiting Periods: 14 days (accidents & illnesses), 12 months (cruciate)
- Claim Processing: 10-14 days
- Plans: Accident & illness, accident-only, wellness add-ons
- Reimbursements: 50%, 70%, 80%, 90%
- Deductibles: $250, $500, $1,000
- Payouts: Limited per condition, $2.5K, $5K, $7.5K, $10K, $12.5K, $15K
*Major Medical plan, which uses a benefit schedule with a $250 annual deductible
Top Pet Insurance Providers Compared
Still unsure? Take a look at these comparison tables to see key differences.
Plans Options
The table below outlines each company’s plan options, including deductible, reimbursement rate, and payout limits. Availability may vary by pet and state.
| Company | Limits | Reimbursements | Deductibles | Accident & Illness | Accident-Only | Wellness |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $5,000-unlimited | 70-90% | $50-$1,000 |  | | |
| $5,000-$15,000 | 70-90% | $250-$700 | | | |
| Unlimited | 50-90% | $100-$1,000 | | ||
| $5,000-unlimited | 70-100% | $100-$750 | | | |
| $2,000-Unlimited | 70-90% | $100-$1,000 | | | |
| $5,000-$100,000 | 60-90% | $100-$750 | | | |
| Unlimited | 50-100% | $0-$1000 | | ||
 | $2,500-unlimited | 70-90% | $100-$1,000 | | | |
| $3,000-$10,000 | 70-90% | $100-$500 | | | |
| $2,500-unlimited | 70-90% | $100-$1,000 | | | |
| Limited per condition-$15,000 | 50-90% | $250-$1,000 | | | |
Coverage
| Company | Hereditary & Chronic | Dental Disease | Tooth Extractions | Alternative Therapy* | Behavioral Therapy | Exam Fees | Prescription Food | Supplements |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| | | | Extra Fee | | Extra Fee | ||
| | | | | | | | |
| | Due To Accident | | |||||
| | | Due To Accident | | | Extra Fee | ||
| | | | | | Extra Fee | ||
| | Extra Fee | Due To Accident | Extra Fee | Extra Fee | Extra Fee | ||
| | Canines & Carnassials | | Extra Fee | | 50% | | |
| Extra Fee | Due To Accident | | $1,000 | Extra Fee | | ||
| | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | | |
| | | | | |
Waiting Periods
| Company | Illness | Accident | CCL Surgery | Hip Dysplasia | Wellness | Other |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 14 Days | 3 Days | 6 Months | 14 Days | 0 Days | |
| 15 Days | 15 Days | 6 Months | 6 Months | 0 Days | |
| 15 Days | 15 Days | 15 Days | 12 Months | ||
| 14 Days | 1 Day | 6 Months | 6 Months | 0 Days | Orthopedic Conditions – 6 Months |
| 14 Days | 2 Days | 6 Months | 6 Months | 0 Days | IVDD, Patellar Luxation – 6 Months |
| 14 Days | 2 Days | 6 Months | 30 Days | 0 Days | Orthopedic Conditions – 30 Days |
| 30 Days | 5 Days | 30 Days | 30 Days | ||
| 14 Days | 2 Days | 180 Days | 30 Days | 0 Days | Alternative Therapies – 30 Days; IVDD – 180 Days |
| 14 Days | 14 Days | 14 Days | 14 Days | 0 Days | |
| 14 Days | 14 Days | 14 Days | 14 Days | 0 Days | |
| 14 Days | 14 Days | 12 Months | 14 Days | 1 Day |
Sample Rates For Accident & Illness Coverage
| Company | 1yr Dachshund | 2yr French Bulldog | 5yr Yorkshire Terrier | 1yr Ragdoll |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $24.66 | $44.17 | $25.53 | $14.37 |
| $29.15 | $79.23 | $34.46 | $23.75* |
| $31.92** | $62.42** | $33.18§† | $15.83** |
| $28.97 | $53.82 | $29.31 | $20.96 |
| $44.73 | $57.81 | $26.87 | $23.57 |
| $26.96 | $40.02 | $18.55 | $16.13 |
| $70.68† | $284.51†¶ | $99.61† | $44.42† |
| $24.96 | $62.90 | $45.45 | $24.44 |
| $44.23 | $80.03 | $31.50 | $26.18 |
| $44.23 | $81.45 | $32.94 | $26.18 |
| $40.38‡ | $55.57‡ | $38.16‡ | $22.75‡ |
*$400 deductible; *70% (dogs), 80% (cats), unlimited payouts; †Unlimited payouts; ‡Major Medical plan, which uses a benefit schedule with a $250 annual deductible; §80% deductible, ¶$0 deductible
What Are The Different Types Of Pet Insurance Plans?
There are two pet insurance plans: accident-only and accident and illness. Some companies also offer an optional wellness plan for an extra charge, but it isn’t an insurance product. Since several pet insurance providers offer wellness plans during enrollment, I included them to ensure you know the full range of options during new enrollment.
- Accident-Only: Covers injuries from accidents like torn ligaments, broken bones, poisoning, bite wounds, and foreign body ingestion. Illnesses aren’t covered. These plans are more affordable than accident & illness policies but are offered by fewer insurers.
- Accident & Illness: The most common pet insurance plan, covering both injuries and illnesses like cancer, allergies, UTIs, arthritis, and infections. This comprehensive coverage provides broader protection than accident-only plans.
- Wellness: Available as an add-on, wellness coverage helps pay for preventive care like vaccinations, flea/tick/heartworm prevention, dental cleanings, and spay/neuter procedures. While it encourages proactive pet care, wellness plans don’t cover accidents or illnesses and aren’t traditional pet insurance.
What Does Pet Insurance Cover?
Pet insurance coverage varies, but most accident & illness plans cover necessary treatments with some limits and exclusions. Pre-existing conditions and those appearing during the waiting period aren’t covered. Below are commonly covered conditions, though AKC Pet Insurance requires add-ons for hereditary, congenital, and chronic conditions.
Covered Diagnostics
- Non-routine blood tests
- X-rays
- CT scans
- Ultrasounds
- Emergency care
- MRIs
- Surgery
- Hospitalization
- Outpatient care
- Biopsy
Covered Conditions
- Cancers
- Hereditary
- Allergies
- Chronic
- Cruciate ligament tears
- Diabetes
- Urinary tract infections
- Arthritis
- Broken bones
- Ear infections
Excluded
- Boarding
- Declawing
- Ear cropping
- Spaying/neutering
- Tail docking
- Pregnancy & breeding
- Vaccines
- Grooming
- Food
- Cremation & burial
I’ve put together a comprehensive guide outlining what pet insurance covers, including cost and reimbursement examples, key factors to consider, wellness plans, and alternatives to help you make the best decision for your pet.
How Much Is Pet Insurance?
According to NAPHIA (North American Pet Health Insurance Association), the average monthly premium for an accident and illness dog insurance policy in the U.S. is $62.44 ($32.10 for cats).
Accident-only policies cost significantly less, averaging $17/month for dogs and $9.68/month for cats. However, they don’t cover illnesses like cancer, arthritis, diabetes, or UTIs.
However, pet insurance premiums vary based on several key factors, making each policy unique to your pet. Here’s what impacts pricing:
- Plan Type – Accident-only plans cost less than accident & illness plans.
- Payout Limit – Lower payout limits reduce premiums but may leave you covering more expenses if your pet needs costly treatment.
- Deductible Type – Annual deductibles (most common) are paid once per policy year, while per-incident deductibles (used by Trupanion & Nationwide) apply separately to each condition. Higher deductibles typically lower monthly costs.
- Reimbursement Rate – Lower reimbursement percentages reduce premiums but increase your out-of-pocket share for claims.
- Pet’s Age – Younger pets cost less to insure since older pets are more prone to illnesses and accidents.
- Breed Risks – Purebred dogs, due to hereditary conditions, often have higher premiums than mixed breeds, which tend to be healthier.
- Gender – Males, because they are larger, generally have higher vet costs than females, influencing insurance rates.
- Location – Vet costs vary by region, affecting premiums based on supply costs, staff wages, and overhead expenses in your area.
Understanding these factors can help you choose a policy that balances cost and coverage for your pet’s needs.
Understanding Pet Insurance Waiting Periods
Waiting periods help prevent fraud and keep premiums lower by excluding recent or pre-existing illnesses and accidents. Insurers require them to ensure coverage remains sustainable.
Most pet insurance companies have two main waiting periods:
- Illnesses: ~14 days
- Accidents: ~3 days
- Orthopedic conditions (e.g., hip dysplasia, CCL tears, IVDD): Ranges from 14 days to 12 months
Some states are adopting a Model Law to standardize waiting periods across insurers. If your state follows this law, waiting periods will be the same across all providers, making them less of a deciding factor.
*States are gradually adopting a Model Law for pet insurance, aiming to standardize regulations, including uniform waiting periods. In California, Delaware, Louisiana, Maine, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Hampshire, Washington, Rhode Island, and Maryland, waiting periods are:
- Accidents: 0 days
- Illnesses: 14 days
- Cruciate Ligament Conditions: 30 days
- Routine Care: 0 days
Is Pet Insurance Worth It?
According to Canine Journal’s Economic Euthanasia Study, 36% of respondents would spend up to $1,000 on vet care to avoid euthanasia. Unfortunately, with rising veterinary costs, unexpected accidents or illnesses can easily exceed that amount—leaving many pet owners in a tough financial spot.
What if you faced a $1,500 emergency vet bill tomorrow? Would it strain your budget? Would you hesitate to approve treatment?
If so, pet insurance can be worth it if the monthly premium fits within your budget. It helps cover costly medical care, giving your dog access to necessary treatment without the stress of unexpected expenses.
To dive deeper, check out my full article on whether pet insurance is worth it, where I break down how it works, real-life benefits, and whether it’s the right fit for you.
How To Choose The Best Pet Insurance For You
With so many pet insurance providers, finding the right one can feel overwhelming. The key is to focus on your pet’s specific needs and carefully compare options. Here’s how to narrow down your choices and pick the best coverage:
1. Consider Your Pet’s Breed & Health Risks
Certain breeds are prone to specific health conditions, so it’s important to choose a plan that offers solid coverage for those risks. For example, if your dog is predisposed to hip dysplasia, check for waiting periods, exclusions, and whether it’s considered a bilateral condition (which some insurers won’t cover if one side has issues). Talking to your vet about potential concerns can also help guide your decision.
2. Research Insurance Providers & Reputation
A pet insurance policy is only valuable if it actually covers what you need and pays out fairly. Before choosing a provider, ask yourself:
- Have you heard of them?
- Do family or friends use them?
- What are real customers saying about claims and customer service?
3. Compare Plans & Get Quotes
Once you know what coverage you need, compare policies based on:
- Plan types (accident-only vs accident & illness)
- Coverage limits & exclusions
- Waiting periods & age restrictions
- Monthly premiums vs overall value
Our pet insurance comparison tables highlight key differences. Get quotes from at least three companies—pricing varies widely, and a higher cost doesn’t always mean better coverage.
4. Check The Claims & Reimbursement Process
Before committing, consider:
- How long does reimbursement take?
- Can they pay your vet directly?
- Will you be able to afford upfront costs while waiting for reimbursement?
If a company’s process takes longer than you can comfortably wait, you might want to look elsewhere.
5. Ask Questions Before You Buy
Don’t hesitate to contact potential providers with any questions. Their responsiveness may reflect customer service quality down the road.
Choosing pet insurance is a personal decision, and no one knows your pet’s needs better than you. Take your time, compare your options, and pick a plan that gives you peace of mind and financial protection when you need it most.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions our readers have about pet insurance. Don’t see yours? Drop your question in the comments, and our experts will help.
What Is The Best Pet Insurance?
Pets Best received a perfect 5-star rating in Canine Journal’s evaluation. However, several other strong insurers are available, and the best choice depends on your budget and your pet’s specific coverage needs. It’s a good idea to gather quotes from at least three providers to compare your options and find the right fit.
Can I Go To Any Vet With Pet Insurance?
Every pet insurance company in this review lets you visit any licensed vet in the U.S. for your pet’s care.
Can I Get Pet Insurance After A Diagnosis?
You can purchase pet insurance anytime, but most policies won’t cover illnesses or injuries diagnosed before your coverage begins. For example, if your vet diagnoses your dog with cancer, you won’t be able to get a policy the next day to cover the treatment.
Finding The Right Pet Insurance For Your Needs
Pet insurance can provide crucial financial support when unexpected vet bills arise. Whether you want a budget-friendly option like Lemonade, extensive coverage with Embrace, or a balanced plan like Pets Best, there’s a policy to fit your needs. Comparing providers, reading reviews, and understanding coverage details will help you find the best protection for your pet.
Get Free Quotes Now
Click below to compare quotes from top-rated providers and ensure your pet is protected:
The insurance rates in our study are based on sample rates for a 1-year-old Dachshund dog and a 1-year-old Ragdoll cat in New York (14211 zip code). The rates were obtained for a pet insurance policy with a $5,000 annual benefit limit, a $500 deductible, and a 90% reimbursement rate, unless otherwise noted.
Methodology
My team and I conduct extensive research on the most reputable pet insurance companies, analyzing customer feedback, policy changes, and industry trends. Our licensed insurance agent fact-checks everything, and we update our reviews year-round as insurers adjust premiums, coverage, exclusions, and customer service.
We rank each U.S. pet insurance provider using a 100-point scale, ensuring an unbiased breakdown of how companies perform in real-world claims.
Our Ranking Criteria
- Coverage & Exclusions (30%) – We analyze policies, exclusions, and age restrictions, rewarding companies with fewer coverage limitations.
- Pricing (15%) – We run thousands of sample quotes and factor in extra fees, discounts, and add-ons.
- Customer Service & Reputation (12%) – We review hundreds of customer experiences, assess the sign-up process, and evaluate claim support.
- Financial Strength (10%) – We examine A.M. Best & Demotech ratings to ensure companies can pay claims reliably.
- Customization Options (10%) – Providers with more deductible, reimbursement, and payout flexibility rank higher.
- Waiting Periods (5%) – Shorter illness & accident waiting periods result in a better score.
- Claim Processing (5%) – Companies offering fast reimbursements and direct vet pay score higher.
- Innovation (3%) – We recognize unique offerings and advanced technology in the industry.
Unbiased Pet Insurance Rankings: Putting Pets First
Unlike many review sites, we don’t sell rankings—every provider earns its spot based on real performance. Our in-depth comparisons help pet parents make informed decisions, while insurers use our reviews to improve their policies. We only recommend the best because that’s what our readers deserve.
Why Trust Canine Journal?
Canine Journal has been covering the topic of pet insurance since 2012, well before other conglomerates discovered the rising popularity of health care for our pets. Many of our authors have personal experience with pet insurance, including Kimberly Alt, who has been Canine Journal’s go-to author for pet insurance for over a decade, having written about nearly every possible facet related to pet insurance. Kimberly knows the subject so well that she can answer a breadth and depth of pet insurance questions immediately. And on the rare occasion she doesn’t know the answer off the top of her head, she can find it within minutes due to her extensive list of resources.
Kimberly also consulted with Michelle Schenker, Canine Journal’s in-house licensed insurance agent, for additional expertise, to ensure accuracy, and give Canine Journal the authority to write about and assist readers in purchasing policies that are accurately represented.
