AARP Pet Insurance 2025: In-Depth Review of Coverage, Benefits & Drawbacks
Our expert's opinion on AARP
AARP’s pet insurance, administered by Fetch by The Dodo, delivers robust, customizable pet health coverage for cats and dogs with a clear focus on flexibility and comprehensive care, including accident and illness plans, strong dental and behavioral benefits, and wellness add-ons for eligible members. At sign-up, users choose annual limits ($10,000 or unlimited), reimbursement percentages (70%, 80%, or 90%), and deductibles ($200, $350, or $500), with the notable pricing advantage of a 10% lifetime discount for AARP members, positioning AARP/Fetch as more comprehensive but slightly pricier than low-cost rivals like ASPCA or Pets Best, while undercutting many premium insurers for what’s included. This policy is ideal for pet owners seeking high reimbursements, broad dental and breed-specific disease cover, unlimited options, or enrolling older pets, and especially suits those with young or purebred animals wanting proactive coverage and flexible budgets. Fetch Pet Insurance, a long-established US provider, reported over 4,300 reviews and an excellent Trustpilot score of 4.4/5; claims are processed in 6 days on average (within 30 days max), and financial reliability is backed by more than 15 years of industry operation, serving all US states (except FL, HI, TN for the AARP discount).
- ✅10% AARP member discount for policy life
- ✅Unlimited or $10,000 annual coverage limit options
- ✅Dental coverage for all adult teeth, including disease
- ✅Behavioral and alternative care included
- ✅Covers some curable pre-existing conditions after 12 symptom-free months
- ✅No max age for enrollment; multi-pet plans available
- ✅Fast claims: average 6 days, strong 4.4 Trustpilot score (4,317 reviews)
- ❌No direct vet payment: owner pays upfront
- ❌Annual exam and dental checkup required for coverage
- ❌No coverage for routine/preventive care by default (add-on required)
- ❌Waiting period: 15 days for illness/injury, 6 months for knees/hips
- ❌Strict exclusions for pre-existing, hereditary, elective, or preventive care
- ✅10% AARP member discount for policy life
- ✅Unlimited or $10,000 annual coverage limit options
- ✅Dental coverage for all adult teeth, including disease
- ✅Behavioral and alternative care included
- ✅Covers some curable pre-existing conditions after 12 symptom-free months
- ✅No max age for enrollment; multi-pet plans available
- ✅Fast claims: average 6 days, strong 4.4 Trustpilot score (4,317 reviews)
Our expert's opinion on AARP
ScoreAARP’s pet insurance, administered by Fetch by The Dodo, delivers robust, customizable pet health coverage for cats and dogs with a clear focus on flexibility and comprehensive care, including accident and illness plans, strong dental and behavioral benefits, and wellness add-ons for eligible members. At sign-up, users choose annual limits ($10,000 or unlimited), reimbursement percentages (70%, 80%, or 90%), and deductibles ($200, $350, or $500), with the notable pricing advantage of a 10% lifetime discount for AARP members, positioning AARP/Fetch as more comprehensive but slightly pricier than low-cost rivals like ASPCA or Pets Best, while undercutting many premium insurers for what’s included. This policy is ideal for pet owners seeking high reimbursements, broad dental and breed-specific disease cover, unlimited options, or enrolling older pets, and especially suits those with young or purebred animals wanting proactive coverage and flexible budgets. Fetch Pet Insurance, a long-established US provider, reported over 4,300 reviews and an excellent Trustpilot score of 4.4/5; claims are processed in 6 days on average (within 30 days max), and financial reliability is backed by more than 15 years of industry operation, serving all US states (except FL, HI, TN for the AARP discount).
- ✅10% AARP member discount for policy life
- ✅Unlimited or $10,000 annual coverage limit options
- ✅Dental coverage for all adult teeth, including disease
- ✅Behavioral and alternative care included
- ✅Covers some curable pre-existing conditions after 12 symptom-free months
- ✅No max age for enrollment; multi-pet plans available
- ✅Fast claims: average 6 days, strong 4.4 Trustpilot score (4,317 reviews)
- ❌No direct vet payment: owner pays upfront
- ❌Annual exam and dental checkup required for coverage
- ❌No coverage for routine/preventive care by default (add-on required)
- ❌Waiting period: 15 days for illness/injury, 6 months for knees/hips
- ❌Strict exclusions for pre-existing, hereditary, elective, or preventive care
- ✅10% AARP member discount for policy life
- ✅Unlimited or $10,000 annual coverage limit options
- ✅Dental coverage for all adult teeth, including disease
- ✅Behavioral and alternative care included
- ✅Covers some curable pre-existing conditions after 12 symptom-free months
- ✅No max age for enrollment; multi-pet plans available
- ✅Fast claims: average 6 days, strong 4.4 Trustpilot score (4,317 reviews)
Why Trust HelloSafe?
At HelloSafe, our pet insurance experts review the terms and pricing of insurance policies on the market every year to provide you with a trustworthy and unbiased analysis. Thanks to this rigorous approach, hundreds of thousands of users across the United States rely on us each month to help guide them in their most important financial decisions.
AARP Guarantees
AARP, through Fetch by The Dodo, offers a single comprehensive, fully customizable plan for dogs and cats, allowing pet owners to choose their annual limit (from $10,000 to unlimited), reimbursement rate (70%, 80%, or 90%), and deductible ($200, $350, or $500 per year).
The standard policy covers both accidents and illnesses, including breed-specific hereditary conditions, hospitalizations, diagnostics, prescription medication, behavioral treatments (up to $1,000 per year), full dental for all adult teeth, alternative therapies, and boarding fees if the owner is hospitalized. Preventive care (wellness), such as vaccinations, dental cleanings, and spay/neuter, is only available as an optional add-on and not included in the standard package.
Distinct strengths include the absence of maximum age limits for enrollment, comprehensive dental and behavioral coverage, and a 10% AARP member discount, while key weaknesses are the lack of direct veterinary payment (members must pay the vet upfront), strict annual health and dental exam requirements, and standard waiting periods of 15 days.
Compared to competitors, AARP’s plan stands out for its unlimited annual benefit option, strong dental and behavioral coverage, and flexibility of coverage selection, but falls short when it comes to seamless payments, wellness care as standard, and coverage of pre-existing conditions.
| Name of coverage | AARP Fetch by The Dodo (customizable plan) |
|---|---|
| Plan positioning | Comprehensive, highly customizable accident & illness plan with wellness add-on |
| Type of coverage | Accidents and illnesses |
| Animals covered | Dogs and cats |
| Reimbursement rate (%) | 70%, 80%, or 90% |
| Annual reimbursement limit | $10,000 or unlimited |
| Deductible (annual or per claim) | $200, $350, or $500 annual |
| Age limits for enrollment (for dogs and cats) | No maximum age limit, minimum 6 weeks |
| Pre-enrollment health questionnaire | Annual health and dental exams required; medical records may be requested |
| Waiting period (illness) | 15 days |
| Waiting period (accident) | 15 days |
| Lifetime coverage once subscribed | ✅ Valid as long as premiums paid and annual protocols followed |
| Vet consultations (regular + emergency) | ✅ Any licensed vet, 24/7 emergency covered |
| Medications | ✅ Prescription medications and supplements covered |
| Hospitalization | ✅ Covered |
| Surgery (including anesthesia) | ✅ Covered |
| Diagnostic tests (X-ray, MRI, ultrasound, lab tests) | ✅ Covered |
| Dental care (includes scaling and procedures) | ✅ All adult teeth; periodontal, injuries, extractions |
| Preventive care package (vaccines, antiparasitics, spaying/neutering, ID/microchipping) | Optional wellness add-on only |
| Alternative medicine (osteopathy, acupuncture, etc.) | ✅ Covered (when prescribed by vet) |
| Travel coverage (countries included, duration) | US and Canada only |
| Civil liability | ❌ Not included |
| Euthanasia | ✅ Covered if medically necessary |
| Death & cremation coverage | ✅ Covered for accident/illness (with some limits) |
| Theft or loss of pet + search expenses | ✅ Covered for advertising, reward, buyback (with documentation & limits) |
| Boarding fees (if owner is hospitalized) | ✅ Covered with limits; owner’s hospitalization >96h |
Important Coverage Details
Coverage requires annual vet and dental exams to stay valid; claims must be filed within 90 days of treatment.
Routine wellness and preventive care are not included in the base plan but can be added for an extra fee.
Hip and knee injuries have a six-month waiting period unless an early orthopedic exam is performed.
Compare plan options and coverage to find the best rate for your pet’s needs.
👉 Compare the best pet insurance for your furry friend for free!Start Your Free Comparison Now!AARP Exclusions
The AARP Fetch policy excludes standard pre-existing conditions, cosmetic and elective procedures, as well as non-prescription food and supplements, which is typical of the industry, but also excludes complications from breeding, nursing, or whelping and vacation cancellation—two notable differences from some competitors.
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Coverage for hip and knee injuries is subject to a 6-month waiting period unless an orthopedic exam is performed in the first 30 days, and annual health and dental exams are strictly required for ongoing eligibility.
Lost pet advertising/reward and anal gland expression are also not reimbursed, and all care must be delivered by a licensed veterinarian in the US or Canada to be eligible.
Pre-existing conditions may become eligible only after 12 consecutive symptom-free months, which sets the policy apart from more restrictive competitors.
N.C. regarding other non-standard exclusions.
| Exclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Medical exclusions | • Pre-existing conditions • Cosmetic or elective procedures • Complications from breeding, nursing, or whelping • Non-prescription food and supplements • Anal gland expression • Hip/knee injuries (6-month waiting period unless waived) • Behavioral issues if related to pre-existing behavior or not diagnosed/treated by a vet |
| Travel and provider exclusions | • No coverage outside US/Canada • Services not provided by licensed veterinarian |
| Reimbursement process | • Upfront payment required; insurer only reimburses policyholder |
| Preventive/procedural exclusions | • Wellness care, routine/preventive care (unless purchased as add-on) • Lost pet advertising and reward • Vacation cancellation |
| Eligibility requirements | • Annual health and dental exams required • Claims must be filed within 90 days of care |
| Documentation/administrative | • Claims may require full medical records • N.C. on other non-standard administrative exclusions |
• Cosmetic or elective procedures
• Complications from breeding, nursing, or whelping
• Non-prescription food and supplements
• Anal gland expression
• Hip/knee injuries (6-month waiting period unless waived)
• Behavioral issues if related to pre-existing behavior or not diagnosed/treated by a vet
• Services not provided by licensed veterinarian
• Lost pet advertising and reward
• Vacation cancellation
• Claims must be filed within 90 days of care
• N.C. on other non-standard administrative exclusions
AARP Prices
AARP pet insurance, powered by Fetch, is positioned as comprehensive and mid-to-high range compared to market competitors. The plan stands out for very broad coverage—including dental and behavioral, 90% reimbursement, and high or unlimited annual limits—which, combined with lower deductibles, results in premiums above entry-level insurers but competitive with other premium providers. AARP’s 10% member discount partially offsets these higher costs, though pricing remains firm due to extensive inclusions and strong customer service scores. Unlike purely budget options, coverage for chronic or breed-specific conditions plus routine care add-ons add value, especially for pet owners wanting fewer claim denials. Overall, AARP is best described as "expensive but comprehensive," appealing to subscribers seeking broad, reliable protection for their pets.
| AARP (Fetch) Comprehensive Plan | |
|---|---|
| Young cat (2–4 years) | $26–$32/month |
| Senior cat (7–8 years) | $40–$50/month |
| Small breed dog | $33–$43/month |
| Small breed dog (2–4 years) | $31–$39/month |
| Large breed dog (2–4 years) | $49–$64/month |
| Senior dog (7–8 years) | $68–$90/month |
Compare AARP plans side by side to find your best price and coverage.
👉 Compare the best pet insurance for your furry friend for free!Start Your Free Comparison Now!AARP Promo Codes
| AARP Promo Codes | Details |
|---|---|
| AARP Member Discount | 10% off new policies |
| 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 Information
Reimbursements with AARP (Fetch) pet insurance are calculated based on your plan’s annual deductible and selected reimbursement rate—after you pay your vet directly, you submit a claim and receive a percentage of covered costs, helping keep your out-of-pocket payments low for major or routine treatments.
Emergency Surgery Reimbursement Example
Emergency surgery for intestinal blockage
Total vet costs: $3,000 (surgery, hospitalization, medication)
Deductible amount to subtract: $500 (annual deductible, highest-tier plan)
Amount reimbursable after deductible: $3,000 – $500 = $2,500
Reimbursement at 90%: $2,500 × 90% = $2,250
👉 You receive a reimbursement of $2,250; your out-of-pocket cost is $750.
ℹ️ The $500 deductible applies once per policy year, so future approved claims will not be reduced by the deductible until renewal.
Diabetes Diagnosis and Ongoing Care Coverage
Total vet costs: $1,200 (diagnostics, follow-up visits, insulin)
Deductible already met from previous claim
Reimbursement at 90%: $1,200 × 90% = $1,080
👉 You receive $1,080 back; your out-of-pocket expense is $120.
ℹ️ Chronic conditions like diabetes are covered for life with this plan, as long as your pet remains enrolled.
Routine care—annual check-up with vaccinations (with wellness add-on)
Total vet costs: $250 (exam, vaccinations, annual bloodwork)
Deductible not applied (wellness add-on works as a reimbursement benefit)
Reimbursement: up to $250 if within annual wellness limit
👉 You are reimbursed $250; no out-of-pocket cost for eligible routine care.
ℹ️ The wellness benefit is an optional add-on for routine and preventive costs—highly valuable for puppies and kittens.
AARP Assistance
AARP’s pet insurance does not provide an advance payment service, so pet owners must pay vets directly and await reimbursement, which could be a drawback for those needing upfront financial support.
No payment facilities such as free or in-house installments are highlighted, meaning premiums must be paid monthly according to the user's payment method.
The claims process is fully digital: claims can be handled via an online portal or mobile app, enabling policyholders to upload receipts and track reimbursements conveniently, usually within a week.
However, AARP (Fetch) does not offer a 24/7 emergency vet hotline or teleconsultation and has no network of preferred or discounted veterinary partner clinics—policyholders can visit any licensed provider.
A significant benefit is worldwide coverage (including travel), but only for temporary trips; care abroad is subject to policy limits and U.S./Canada residency.
| Assistance AARP | Available? | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Advance payment | ❌ | No advance/third-party payment. Policyholder pays vet and files for reimbursement. No equivalent to Payvet, Carecredit, or similar services. |
| Payment facilities | ❌ | No installment or special deferred payment options provided. Premiums are paid monthly via standard payment methods. |
| Mobile app | ✅ | Mobile app and online portal available. Lets users file and track claims, upload invoices, and view policy documents. UX and user ratings: N.C. |
| Paperless claims process | ✅ | Fully digital process via app or website. Claims typically processed within 6–10 days after submission with all required documentation. |
| Emergency vet service | ❌ | No 24/7 emergency vet hotline or teleconsultation is provided by AARP or Fetch. |
| Vet/clinic partner network | ❌ | No preferred or discounted network. Owners may use any licensed veterinarian or clinic in the US, Canada, or while traveling. |
| Coverage abroad | ✅ | Coverage applies worldwide for temporary stays. Main residence must be in US or Canada; limits and claim procedures remain as per domestic terms. |
Customer Reviews of AARP
| Review platform | Rating and number of reviews |
|---|---|
| Trustpilot | 4.4 / 5 (4,317 reviews) |
We analyzed reviews from the sites listed above. On the positive side, customers who subscribed to AARP pet insurance (Fetch by The Dodo) for their pets often mention:
✅ A knowledgeable and responsive customer service: many policyholders highlight the clarity and support provided by customer advisors.
✅ Fast claim reimbursements: users frequently appreciate claims being processed, resolved, and paid within a week.
✅ Flexible plan design and comprehensive coverage: the ability to customize deductible and reimbursement rates, plus inclusion of major dental and behavioral coverage, are strongly valued.
✅ An easy online experience: the digital portal and app for claims and document review are praised for their efficiency.
✅ The 10% lifetime discount for AARP members is repeatedly cited as a meaningful benefit.
On the negative side:
❌ A requirement to pay the veterinarian upfront, then seek reimbursement, is cited as challenging for some.
❌ An obligation for annual health and dental exams (with proof) causes frustration for certain users.
❌ Occasional reports of misunderstandings or confusion regarding what conditions or treatments are excluded.
❌ Some users mention dissatisfaction with increases in premium over time, especially for older pets.
❌ A few reviewers describe delays or unclear communication in complex appeal or claims cases.
How to 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. |
| To request and track a reimbursement | File your claim online through the Fetch customer portal or mobile app. Call Fetch at 1-866-984-0104. Email: [email protected] Required: itemized vet invoice, proof of payment, medical records if requested. Payment by direct deposit or check. Claims typically processed within 6–10 business days of all documents received. |
| To obtain a certificate of insurance | Contact Fetch customer service at 1-866-984-0104. Email: [email protected] Or via your online policyholder account. |
| To contact assistance | For general customer support: AARP: 1-888-687-2277 (Mon–Fri 8am–8pm EST) Fetch Pet Insurance: 1-866-984-0104 (Mon–Fri 8am–9pm EST; Sat 9am–7pm EST) Email: [email protected] |
| To cancel my policy | Call Fetch customer service at 1-866-984-0104. Email: [email protected] You may be required to provide your policy number and written request. If canceled within 30 days and no claims submitted: full refund. If after 30 days or if claims made: refund prorated; re-enrollment fee may apply. |
Call Fetch at 1-866-984-0104.
Email: [email protected]
Required: itemized vet invoice, proof of payment, medical records if requested.
Payment by direct deposit or check.
Claims typically processed within 6–10 business days of all documents received.
Email: [email protected]
Or via your online policyholder account.
Fetch Pet Insurance: 1-866-984-0104 (Mon–Fri 8am–9pm EST; Sat 9am–7pm EST)
Email: [email protected]
Email: [email protected]
You may be required to provide your policy number and written request.
If canceled within 30 days and no claims submitted: full refund.
If after 30 days or if claims made: refund prorated; re-enrollment fee may apply.
FAQ
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with AARP?
Yes, with AARP’s pet insurance (Fetch by The Dodo), you will need to pay your veterinarian directly at the time of service and then file a claim with the insurer for reimbursement. There is no advance payment or direct third-party settlement with the vet, so be prepared to cover the costs up front before being reimbursed according to your plan’s terms.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with AARP?
You can cancel your AARP pet insurance policy at any time by calling Fetch customer service or emailing them your request. No specific notice period is required, but you’ll need to provide your policy information and a written request. If you cancel within 30 days and haven’t submitted a claim, you’ll receive a full refund; after 30 days or if a claim has been made, a prorated refund applies.
What does AARP pet insurance cover?
The policy covers a wide range of accidents and illnesses, including emergency vet visits, cancer treatments, alternative therapies, hereditary and congenital conditions, prescription medications, and specialized dental care. Routine wellness care such as exams and vaccinations can be added as an optional rider for additional cost.
Is there a waiting period before my pet is covered?
Yes, there is a 15-day waiting period for both accidents and illnesses from the date your policy begins. This means any conditions or incidents that occur during this waiting period will not be covered and will be considered pre-existing.
How does the reimbursement process work?
After paying the vet, you can submit your claim online or by phone with your itemized invoice and proof of payment. Claims are typically processed within 6 to 10 business days, and you’ll receive your reimbursement by direct deposit or check. The payout is subject to your selected deductible, reimbursement percentage, and any annual coverage limits.
Are there any age or breed restrictions for coverage?
AARP’s pet insurance does not impose a maximum age limit for enrollment, and all cat and dog breeds are eligible. However, pets must be at least 6 weeks old at signup and must reside in the US or Canada, and certain conditions may have additional requirements based on breed or age.
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with AARP?
Yes, with AARP’s pet insurance (Fetch by The Dodo), you will need to pay your veterinarian directly at the time of service and then file a claim with the insurer for reimbursement. There is no advance payment or direct third-party settlement with the vet, so be prepared to cover the costs up front before being reimbursed according to your plan’s terms.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with AARP?
You can cancel your AARP pet insurance policy at any time by calling Fetch customer service or emailing them your request. No specific notice period is required, but you’ll need to provide your policy information and a written request. If you cancel within 30 days and haven’t submitted a claim, you’ll receive a full refund; after 30 days or if a claim has been made, a prorated refund applies.
What does AARP pet insurance cover?
The policy covers a wide range of accidents and illnesses, including emergency vet visits, cancer treatments, alternative therapies, hereditary and congenital conditions, prescription medications, and specialized dental care. Routine wellness care such as exams and vaccinations can be added as an optional rider for additional cost.
Is there a waiting period before my pet is covered?
Yes, there is a 15-day waiting period for both accidents and illnesses from the date your policy begins. This means any conditions or incidents that occur during this waiting period will not be covered and will be considered pre-existing.
How does the reimbursement process work?
After paying the vet, you can submit your claim online or by phone with your itemized invoice and proof of payment. Claims are typically processed within 6 to 10 business days, and you’ll receive your reimbursement by direct deposit or check. The payout is subject to your selected deductible, reimbursement percentage, and any annual coverage limits.
Are there any age or breed restrictions for coverage?
AARP’s pet insurance does not impose a maximum age limit for enrollment, and all cat and dog breeds are eligible. However, pets must be at least 6 weeks old at signup and must reside in the US or Canada, and certain conditions may have additional requirements based on breed or age.
