AARP Pet Insurance Review 2025: Pros, Cons & Our Verdict
Our expert's opinion on AARP
AARP's pet insurance program is administered by Fetch and provides a single Basic accident & illness plan available to AARP members, accessible through AARP's member portal and offering member pricing.
The Basic plan covers emergency care, consultations, surgery, imaging, lab tests, radiotherapy, specialist consultations, boarding if owner hospitalized, loss/theft and death benefits with specific waiting periods (5 days for accidents, 15 days for illnesses); reimbursement rates, annual limits and deductibles are determined on the policy declarations page, routine preventive care and vaccinations are excluded, and there is no dedicated wellness budget. Compared with major competitors such as Nationwide, Trupanion and Healthy Paws, AARP/Fetch focuses on a simpler, member-discounted Basic accident-and-illness product with customizable copay/limit choices that can be competitively priced for younger pets but offers less preventive/wellness breadth than more comprehensive plans.
Best suited for AARP members with young dogs or cats whose owners prioritize basic accident and illness protection and member pricing over bundled preventive benefits.
Program administration is handled by Fetch Insurance Services, LLC; the provider average rating is 2.6 and the offering has a Trustpilot score of 1.2/5 across 208 reviews; claims can be submitted electronically or via form and appeals must be filed within 90 days, with communications typically sent by email.
- ✅AARP member discount through Fetch
- ✅Covers accidents and a broad set of illnesses
- ✅Short waiting periods for accidents and illnesses
- ✅Preauthorization option for treatments
- ✅Online claims submission available
- ✅Specialist consultations covered
- ✅Boarding fees if owner hospitalized over 96 hours
- ❌No routine preventive or vaccination coverage
- ❌No dental prophylaxis or neutering coverage
- ❌Only a single Basic plan offered
- ❌Reimbursement rates and limits set on declarations page
- ❌Premiums increase sharply with pet age
Score- ✅AARP member discount through Fetch
- ✅Covers accidents and a broad set of illnesses
- ✅Short waiting periods for accidents and illnesses
- ✅Preauthorization option for treatments
- ✅Online claims submission available
- ✅Specialist consultations covered
- ✅Boarding fees if owner hospitalized over 96 hours
Our expert's opinion on AARP
- ✅AARP member discount through Fetch
- ✅Covers accidents and a broad set of illnesses
- ✅Short waiting periods for accidents and illnesses
- ✅Preauthorization option for treatments
- ✅Online claims submission available
- ✅Specialist consultations covered
- ✅Boarding fees if owner hospitalized over 96 hours
- ❌No routine preventive or vaccination coverage
- ❌No dental prophylaxis or neutering coverage
- ❌Only a single Basic plan offered
- ❌Reimbursement rates and limits set on declarations page
- ❌Premiums increase sharply with pet age
Score- ✅AARP member discount through Fetch
- ✅Covers accidents and a broad set of illnesses
- ✅Short waiting periods for accidents and illnesses
- ✅Preauthorization option for treatments
- ✅Online claims submission available
- ✅Specialist consultations covered
- ✅Boarding fees if owner hospitalized over 96 hours
Why trust Hellosafe?
At HelloSafe, our pet insurance experts review the terms and pricing of insurance policies available in the Canadian market each year, providing you with trustworthy and unbiased analysis.
Thanks to our careful approach, hundreds of thousands of Canadians rely on us every month to help guide their most important financial decisions.
AARP Guarantees
AARP offers a single core plan positioned as a basic accident & illness product for dogs and cats. The plan covers diagnostic testing, imaging, surgery, specialist consultations and emergency care, with some optional or conditional benefits such as alternative medicine when administered by a veterinarian. Deductible and reimbursement mechanics are set at the policy level and are selected by the policyholder at purchase; specific reimbursement percentages and annual limits are determined on the policy declarations page. Waiting periods apply (short accident waiting period and a longer illness waiting period), and enrollment is available from early puppy/kitten age.
The program is administered by Fetch. Core strengths of the offering include coverage for a wide range of clinical diagnostic and surgical care, emergency treatment, specialist consultation and certain owner support features such as boarding fees if the owner is hospitalized and limited loss/theft protection. The plan also permits preauthorization of treatment and emergency telephone consultations for life‑threatening events. Main weaknesses are the absence of routine preventive care in the base plan, exclusions for many elective and breeding‑related procedures, and exclusions tied to pre‑existing conditions and certain dental or chronic conditions.
Plan design emphasizes a standard accident & illness base with modular selections at the declaration level for deductible, copay, and annual limit. Alternative medicine is covered only if administered by a veterinarian. End‑of‑life and post‑mortem costs are limited by specific exclusions; cremation is not covered under the plan terms. Policyholders should confirm selected deductible, copay, and annual limit options at the time of enrollment.
| Basic plan | |
|---|---|
| Plan positioning | Entry-level / Basic |
| Type of coverage (accident, illness, both, etc.) | Accident & Illness |
| Animals covered (dogs, cats, other) | Dogs, cats |
| Reimbursement rate | NC (based on co-pay selected on declarations page) |
| Annual reimbursement limit | NC (based on amount selected on declarations page) |
| Deductible (annual or per claim) | NC (customizable at policy level) |
| Age limits for enrollment | 6 weeks (minimum) / NC (maximum) |
| Pre-enrollment health questionnaire | NC |
| Waiting periods (accident / illness) | 5 days / 15 days |
| Lifetime coverage | NC |
| Consultations | Yes |
| Medications | NC |
| Hospitalization | Yes (hospitalization covered as part of clinical care) |
| Surgery | Yes |
| Diagnostic tests | Yes (imaging, lab tests) |
| Dental care | No (dental cleaning not included) |
| Preventive care | No (vaccinations, routine preventive treatments excluded) |
| Alternative medicine | Yes (if administered by a veterinarian) |
| Travel coverage | NC |
| Civil liability | NC |
| Euthanasia | Excluded for end‑of‑life costs unless medically necessary (limits apply) |
| Death & cremation coverage | Death: Yes (with limitations) / Cremation: No |
| Theft or loss + search expenses | Yes |
| Boarding fees | Yes (if owner hospitalized >96 hours) |
Exclusions focus on pre‑existing conditions, routine and preventive care, elective procedures and breeding‑related costs. Any illness or injury that showed clinical signs prior to policy effective date or during waiting periods is excluded as a pre‑existing condition. Routine vaccinations, preventive parasite medications (when a preventive exists), routine exams and dental prophylaxis are not covered under the base plan. Elective and cosmetic procedures, spaying/neutering (unless medically necessary), breeding, pregnancy and whelping costs are excluded.
Specific clinical limitations include rules for knee/cruciate conditions: damage occurring in an early period is excluded unless specific underwriting conditions are met, and bilateral rules apply where an affected side can affect coverage on the opposite side for a defined period. Food and supplements are excluded, and many non‑veterinary or non‑standard therapies are excluded unless provided by a licensed veterinarian. Policy design and benefit levels are driven by selected deductible, copay and annual limit options; wellness or preventive care requires separate purchasing or rider options where available.
AARP Exclusions
Primary exclusions focus on pre‑existing conditions and routine preventive care—vaccinations, routine exams, parasite prevention, and dental prophylaxis are not covered.
Specific orthopedic rules are notable: cruciate ligament and other soft‑tissue knee disorders are excluded if signs occur within the early coverage period (six months), and a pre‑existing cruciate injury on one knee can affect coverage for the opposite knee for a defined period (12 months).
Elective and cosmetic procedures, breeding and pregnancy costs, prescription or non‑prescription food and supplements, and injuries caused by owner misconduct or gross negligence are excluded, and behavioral training is not covered.
Non‑veterinary holistic therapies are excluded unless provided by a licensed veterinarian, routine exam fees are not reimbursed, and end‑of‑life costs (euthanasia unless medically necessary, post‑mortem exams, cremation/disposal) are explicitly excluded.
AARP Prices
AARP’s pet insurance sits in a mid-range position, reflecting a balance between accessible monthly premiums and the flexibility offered through customizable plan options; its competitiveness is driven largely by the choices policyholders make for reimbursement levels, deductibles, and annual coverage limits, which directly influence premium pricing.
Key differentiators that support this positioning include the member-oriented distribution via AARP and a digital service model that streamlines quoting and claims, plus added-value features such as preauthorization of treatment and emergency telephone consultations; these operational efficiencies and member benefits help justify the premium structure when compared with more traditional, lower-touch providers.
To help you find the best match between your needs and budget, compare the monthly estimated prices below.
| Profile of the animal | Basic Plan |
|---|---|
| Dog Labrador 1 year | $62.77 |
| Dog Labrador 3 years | $81.34 |
| Dog Labrador 7 years | $194.07 |
| Dog Australian Shepherd 1 year | $98.90 |
| Dog Australian Shepherd 3 years | $118.69 |
| Dog Australian Shepherd 7 years | $281.60 |
| Dog French Bulldog 1 year | $129.93 |
| Dog French Bulldog 3 years | $159.75 |
| Dog French Bulldog 7 years | $373.11 |
| Cat European Shorthair 1 year | $47.80 |
| Cat European Shorthair 3 years | $54.87 |
| Cat European Shorthair 7 years | $82.29 |
| Cat Maine Coon 1 year | $55.91 |
| Cat Maine Coon 3 years | $64.32 |
| Cat Maine Coon 7 years | $96.95 |
| Cat British Shorthair 1 year | $47.80 |
| Cat British Shorthair 3 years | $54.87 |
| Cat British Shorthair 7 years | $82.29 |
AARP Promo Codes
| AARP Promo Codes | Details |
|---|---|
| AARP member discount | N.C. |
| HelloSafe Promo Code | -5% on your quote |
Note: Promo codes are subject to change. For the latest offers, check our comparison of the best pet insurance providers.
AARP Reimbursement
Reimbursements with AARP are calculated after your annual deductible is subtracted, then the plan’s reimbursement percentage is applied to the remaining eligible veterinary expenses.
✅ Example 1: Consultation for allergic dermatitis
Total vet costs: $250 (consultation + medication)
Deductible amount to subtract: $100 (first expense of the year)
Amount reimbursable after deductible with the Premium plan: $250 – $100 = $150
90% of that amount reimbursed: $150 × 90% = $135
👉 You receive a reimbursement of $135.
ℹ️ The deductible only applies once per year. Future eligible claims are reimbursed without repeating the deductible unless the annual period resets.
✅ Example 2: Cruciate ligament repair (surgery)
Total vet costs: $4,500 (surgery, hospitalization, imaging, medication)
Deductible already satisfied earlier in the year: $0
Amount reimbursed at 90% with the Premium plan: $4,500 × 90% = $4,050
👉 You receive $4,050, deducted from the annual coverage cap. Remaining annual limit after this operation: $10,000 – $4,050 = $5,950 until end of policy year.
ℹ️ Larger procedures draw more heavily on the annual limit; choosing a higher annual coverage cap reduces the risk of reaching it.
✅ Example 3: Tooth extraction for severe dental infection
Total vet costs: $1,200 (consultation, extraction, anesthesia, medication)
Deductible already covered earlier in the year: $0
Amount reimbursed at 90% with the Premium plan: $1,200 × 90% = $1,080
👉 You receive $1,080.
ℹ️ Routine dental cleanings are typically excluded, but treatments for dental disease or infection may be eligible when performed by a veterinarian.
AARP Assistance
AARP’s pet insurance program provides preauthorization of treatment and emergency telephone consultation, helping owners estimate coverage and obtain immediate triage for life‑threatening events.
Electronic claims submission and email communications streamline reimbursement and appeals, reducing administrative friction for policyholders.
The policy includes boarding coverage when an owner is hospitalized for extended periods, which can be a practical, situational benefit for pet guardians.
However, the plan offers limited consumer-facing payment flexibility and lacks a clearly established 24/7 veterinary advice line, which can constrain immediate guidance and upfront-payment relief in sudden emergencies.
| Assistance AARP | Available? | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Advance payment | ❌ | N.C. |
| Payment facilities | ❌ | N.C. |
| Mobile app | ❌ | N.C. |
| Paperless claims process | ✅ | Electronic claims submission available via online portal. Preauthorization form and email communications support digital handling of claims. |
| Emergency vet service | ✅ | Emergency telephone consultation covered for immediate life‑saving emergencies. 24/7 vet hotline: N.C. |
| Vet/clinic partner network | ❌ | N.C. |
| Coverage abroad | ❌ | N.C. |
Preauthorization form and email communications support digital handling of claims.
24/7 vet hotline: N.C.
AARP Customer Reviews
There is very limited pet-insurance–specific feedback tied to the AARP pet insurance offering, and the existing Trustpilot entry shows a low overall rating that suggests many customers experienced dissatisfaction. In the absence of concentrated, product‑specific commentary it is not possible to identify reliable, recurring positive themes unique to AARP’s pet insurance membership benefit.
Similarly, common customer concerns specific to the AARP pet insurance benefit cannot be robustly extracted from the available review data; the Trustpilot rating indicates dissatisfaction at scale but does not, on its own, provide a consistent list of issues tied solely to the pet insurance product rather than broader service experiences. For that reason, clear patterns of praise or complaint specific to AARP’s pet insurance cannot be presented with confidence.
Contact AARP
| AARP Customer Service | Details |
|---|---|
| To get a quote or subscribe online | You can use the HelloSafe pet insurance comparison tool, choose the plan that suits you, and click to get a quote. AARP member pet insurance benefit is accessed via AARP’s member site and fulfilled by Fetch. |
| To request and track a reimbursement | Submit a completed claim form or file your claim electronically through the online claims submission process. Required documents: completed claim form. Deadlines for submission: N.C. Reimbursement method (e.g., direct deposit or check): N.C. Appeals: written requests must be submitted within 90 days of a denial. |
| To obtain a certificate of insurance | How to request: N.C. Channels to request: N.C. Information required to issue a certificate (policy number, named insured, pet details): N.C. For assistance, contact AARP pet insurance customer service at the general inquiries number. |
| To contact assistance | Phone: 1-866-467-3875 (general inquiries). Claims submission: completed claim form or online claims portal/electronic submission. Email address for customer service: N.C. Postal mail address for correspondence: N.C. |
| To cancel my policy | Cancellation procedure: N.C. Information to provide when cancelling (policy number, effective date): N.C. Cancellation deadlines and refund conditions: N.C. For assistance with cancellation, contact customer service at 1-866-467-3875. |
Claims submission: completed claim form or online claims portal/electronic submission.
Email address for customer service: N.C.
Postal mail address for correspondence: N.C.
FAQ
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with AARP?
Usually you pay the veterinarian at the time of treatment and then submit a claim to Fetch for reimbursement.
Claims can be filed via a completed claim form or electronically through the online claims submission portal.
Reimbursement is processed after claim review according to the co‑pay, reimbursement rate and annual limits shown on your policy declarations page.
If a claim is denied you may submit a written appeal within 90 days of the denial.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with AARP?
Contact the administrator, Fetch Insurance Services, LLC, by phone at 1-866-467-3875 or send a cancellation request in writing.
Provide your policy number, the named insured, pet details (name/breed/date of birth) and the requested effective cancellation date.
Any refund, prorated premium or notice period will be handled as set out on your policy declarations page.
Keep written confirmation of the cancellation for your records and any future inquiries.
What are the waiting periods for accident and illness coverage?
The standard waiting period for accidents is 5 days and for illnesses is 15 days from the policy effective date.
Certain conditions, notably specific knee or cruciate ligament disorders, may have longer specific waiting or exclusion periods.
Costs for conditions that showed signs before coverage or during waiting periods are treated as pre‑existing and excluded.
Check your declarations and schedule of benefits for any condition‑specific timing that applies to your pet.
How are reimbursement rates and annual limits determined?
The reimbursement percentage, any co‑pay, and the annual coverage limit are selected at purchase and displayed on your policy declarations page.
These choices determine how much you are reimbursed after any deductible and are applied per the claims procedures.
Confirm whether reimbursements are issued by direct deposit or by check in your enrollment materials or policy documents.
If you need a benefit estimate, contact customer service with a sample claim scenario to understand how the chosen options apply.
What common exclusions should I be aware of?
Typical exclusions include pre‑existing conditions, routine and preventive care (vaccinations, dental prophylaxis), and elective or cosmetic procedures.
Food, grooming items, and many non‑veterinary therapies are excluded unless treatment is performed by a licensed veterinarian and explicitly covered.
Breeding, pregnancy, and injuries from organized fighting or racing are not covered.
Behavioral training and conditions with signs before policy start or during waiting periods are also excluded—review your policy for the full list.
What assistance services are available if my pet has an emergency?
Policyholders can submit a Preauthorization Form to check coverage for planned treatments in advance and help avoid unexpected denials.
Emergency telephone consultation is covered for immediate life‑saving emergencies where provided under the program.
For urgent questions or to start a claim contact general inquiries at 1-866-467-3875; policy communications are typically delivered by email unless you opt out.
Follow your veterinarian’s emergency instructions first, then use preauthorization and the claims process to streamline reimbursement.
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with AARP?
Usually you pay the veterinarian at the time of treatment and then submit a claim to Fetch for reimbursement.
Claims can be filed via a completed claim form or electronically through the online claims submission portal.
Reimbursement is processed after claim review according to the co‑pay, reimbursement rate and annual limits shown on your policy declarations page.
If a claim is denied you may submit a written appeal within 90 days of the denial.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with AARP?
Contact the administrator, Fetch Insurance Services, LLC, by phone at 1-866-467-3875 or send a cancellation request in writing.
Provide your policy number, the named insured, pet details (name/breed/date of birth) and the requested effective cancellation date.
Any refund, prorated premium or notice period will be handled as set out on your policy declarations page.
Keep written confirmation of the cancellation for your records and any future inquiries.
What are the waiting periods for accident and illness coverage?
The standard waiting period for accidents is 5 days and for illnesses is 15 days from the policy effective date.
Certain conditions, notably specific knee or cruciate ligament disorders, may have longer specific waiting or exclusion periods.
Costs for conditions that showed signs before coverage or during waiting periods are treated as pre‑existing and excluded.
Check your declarations and schedule of benefits for any condition‑specific timing that applies to your pet.
How are reimbursement rates and annual limits determined?
The reimbursement percentage, any co‑pay, and the annual coverage limit are selected at purchase and displayed on your policy declarations page.
These choices determine how much you are reimbursed after any deductible and are applied per the claims procedures.
Confirm whether reimbursements are issued by direct deposit or by check in your enrollment materials or policy documents.
If you need a benefit estimate, contact customer service with a sample claim scenario to understand how the chosen options apply.
What common exclusions should I be aware of?
Typical exclusions include pre‑existing conditions, routine and preventive care (vaccinations, dental prophylaxis), and elective or cosmetic procedures.
Food, grooming items, and many non‑veterinary therapies are excluded unless treatment is performed by a licensed veterinarian and explicitly covered.
Breeding, pregnancy, and injuries from organized fighting or racing are not covered.
Behavioral training and conditions with signs before policy start or during waiting periods are also excluded—review your policy for the full list.
What assistance services are available if my pet has an emergency?
Policyholders can submit a Preauthorization Form to check coverage for planned treatments in advance and help avoid unexpected denials.
Emergency telephone consultation is covered for immediate life‑saving emergencies where provided under the program.
For urgent questions or to start a claim contact general inquiries at 1-866-467-3875; policy communications are typically delivered by email unless you opt out.
Follow your veterinarian’s emergency instructions first, then use preauthorization and the claims process to streamline reimbursement.
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