Is ASPCA Pet Insurance Worth It? Our 2025 Review
Our Expert's Opinion on ASPCA
ASPCA Pet Health Insurance stands as one of the most established US pet insurers, backed by United States Fire Insurance Company and partnered with the well-known ASPCA. The contract offers a comprehensive Accident & Illness policy available to both cats and dogs, with flexible reimbursement rates, annual deductibles, and annual payout limits adaptable to most needs and budgets. ASPCA’s coverage is broad—covering alternative therapies, hospitalization, surgery, and even behavioral and cancer treatments—yet firmly excludes pre-existing conditions, routine wellness, and some dental and elective care, positioning it at a mid-market level compared to higher-rated competitors like Spot or Embrace. ASPCA particularly suits owners of young pets, mixed or pure breeds, and adopters seeking no discrimination on breed or age at signup, but may be less suited for preventative care seekers or those with older animals with medical history. With over 600,000 pets covered and more than 2.2 million claims processed since 1997, ASPCA’s brand reliability is strengthened by scale and decades-long expertise, though its Trustpilot score of 3.8/5 (6,229 reviews) trails key rivals and highlights variability in claims experience. Reimbursements may be paid in as little as 2–3 days but delays are reported, and clients cite both fair service and, conversely, claims denials—especially for pre-existing conditions or unclear cases—more frequently than with leading US insurers.
- Long operating history, over 600,000 pets insured
- Wide coverage including cancer and behavioral issues
- No breed or age discrimination on signup
- Optional direct payment to veterinarians
- Fast claim payouts in some cases (2–3 days)
- Transparent annual deductible and claim structure
- Active customer support, 94% response to complaints
- Strict pre-existing condition exclusions
- Lower annual limits and wellness exclusions for some plans
- Complex and sometimes slow claims process
- Trustpilot rating below most main competitors
- Frequent documentation requests for claims
- ASPCA Guarantees
- ASPCA exclusions
- ASPCA Prices
- ASPCA Assistance
- Customer Feedback on ASPCA
- How to contact ASPCA?
- FAQ
Why trust HelloSafe?
At HelloSafe, our pet insurance expert carefully reviews policy terms and pricing across the market each year to provide you with reliable and impartial analysis. Thanks to this dedication, hundreds of thousands of users across the US trust us every month to help guide their most important financial decisions.
ASPCA Guarantees
ASPCA proposes one main “Accident & Illness” plan with customizable annual deductible, reimbursement rate, and annual limit, offering broad financial flexibility for pet owners. The policy covers both accidents and illnesses, including diagnostics, prescribed medications, cancer treatments, alternative therapies, behavioral care, and microchip implantation, with reimbursement after a 14-day waiting period and exclusions for preventive care and pre-existing conditions.
A primary strength is its comprehensive scope—hospitalization, surgery, dental extractions for illness/injury, and advanced diagnostics—but its weaknesses include very broad exclusions for prevention, no routine or wellness coverage, and strict pre-existing condition rules, frequently cited in user complaints.
Claims are processed on a reimbursement basis, with optional vet-direct payment upon arrangement, but user feedback highlights inconsistency and perceived opacity in claims handling. ASPCA distinguishes itself by breadth of illness/accident coverage, but notably lacks options for standalone wellness coverage, routine dental, or liability insurance.
| Guarantee Name | Accident & Illness Plan (Customizable) |
|---|---|
| Plan positioning | Comprehensive medical expenses for illness & accident |
| Type of coverage | Accident + Illness (no standalone accident or wellness-only option) |
| Covered animals | Dogs and cats only |
| Reimbursement rate (%) | Configurable: 70%-90% after deductible |
| Annual reimbursement limit | Configurable: usually $3,000–$10,000 or unlimited options |
| Deductible (annual/per-incident) | Configurable annual deductible ($100–$500 typical range) |
| Enrollment age (dogs) | Minimum: 8 weeks; Maximum: NC |
| Enrollment age (cats) | Minimum: 8 weeks; Maximum: NC |
| Prior medical questionnaire required | Usually medical records requested; no formal health exam needed |
| Waiting period for illness | 14 days |
| Waiting period for accident | 14 days |
| Lifetime coverage if insured | Yes, if renewed continuously |
| Vet consultations (routine/emergency/specialist) | Covered for eligible accident/illness; routine checkups excluded |
| Prescription medications | Covered, if prescribed for an accident/illness |
| Hospitalization | Covered |
| Ambulance/transport fees | Covered if needed for covered event |
| Surgery, anesthesia | Covered |
| MRI, CT, ultrasound | Covered |
| Laboratory analysis | Covered |
| Radiation therapy | Covered (as part of cancer treatment) |
| Dental care | Extractions for illness/injury covered; routine dental not covered |
| Teeth cleaning | Excluded |
| Wellness/prevention package | Not covered; no optional add-on in standard contract analyzed |
| Complementary therapies (e.g., acupuncture) | Covered if administered/referred by veterinarian for covered condition |
| Therapeutic diet | Covered if prescribed to treat covered illness |
| Coverage area / travel | US, Puerto Rico, Guam, USVI, Canada |
| Death / cremation benefit | Covered for euthanasia, cremation, burial (excluding memorial items/ceremonies) |
| Euthanasia | Covered (as medically necessary) |
| Theft/loss/search expenses | Not covered |
| Boarding/grooming costs | Not covered |
Important information
- No preventive/wellness care (vaccines, routine labs, checkups, or parasite control) is reimbursed—ASPCA policy analyzed does not offer these as add-ons.
- Pre-existing conditions (including those manifesting during the waiting period) are strictly excluded; “curable” ones may become eligible after 180 symptom-free days, except cruciate ligament/knee issues, which are permanently excluded if pre-existing.
- Application allows vet-direct payment only if arranged and accepted by participating clinics, otherwise reimbursement is to the policyholder.
- No breed, gender, or age surcharge at enrollment, but annual renewal terms may change.
- Claims must be filed within 270 days of treatment; supporting documents required.
ASPCA exclusions
Exclusions regarding pre-existing conditions are particularly strict at ASPCA Pet Health Insurance, with any illness showing symptoms before policy inception or during the 14-day waiting period systematically excluded—an approach often mentioned as more stringent than some competitors, especially for bilateral or ligament issues (e.g., knee conditions are permanently excluded if pre-existing). Routine care and preventive treatments, including food, supplements (outside a covered disease), CBD/cannabis, and herbal products, are not covered regardless of veterinary prescription unless expressly stipulated in a wellness package. Non-essential treatments such as cosmetic procedures (ear cropping, declawing, orthodontic dental care) as well as boarding, breeding, gestation, and lactation costs are always excluded. Coverage is limited to the U.S., U.S. territories, and Canada, with any claims related to pandemics, epidemics, war, or nuclear incidents excluded as well. Additionally, only care performed by a licensed veterinarian is eligible—home treatments or those performed by family members are not reimbursed.
| Exclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Medical exclusions | - Pre-existing conditions (incl. all symptoms before policy start or during waiting period) - Permanently excludes pre-existing ligament/knee conditions, even if unilateral - Routine care, preventive food, supplements, herbs, CBD/cannabis, unless part of specific wellness add-on - Cosmetic/optional treatments: ear cropping, tail docking, declaw, dental orthodontics (e.g., crowns, implants, fillings) - Elective anal gland procedures without infection - Non-vet-performed or non-prescribed care (no owner/family care) - Boarding, reproduction, gestation, lactation excluded - Illness/accident costs incurred during waiting period |
| Geographical exclusions | - Claims eligible only if care performed in the U.S., U.S. territories, or Canada - Any incident outside covered regions excluded |
| Identification and eligibility | - Animal must be residing at main insured address - Coverage may be void if animal no longer resides at listed primary address - Only listed animals are covered |
| Activity exclusions | - Injuries from professional/commercial activities (agility, racing, hunting, guarding, breeding, etc.) excluded |
| Legal and event exclusions | - No coverage for claims caused by or in conjunction with war, declared epidemics/pandemics, nuclear incidents, terrorism, or civil unrest |
- Permanently excludes pre-existing ligament/knee conditions, even if unilateral
- Routine care, preventive food, supplements, herbs, CBD/cannabis, unless part of specific wellness add-on
- Cosmetic/optional treatments: ear cropping, tail docking, declaw, dental orthodontics (e.g., crowns, implants, fillings)
- Elective anal gland procedures without infection
- Non-vet-performed or non-prescribed care (no owner/family care)
- Boarding, reproduction, gestation, lactation excluded
- Illness/accident costs incurred during waiting period
- Any incident outside covered regions excluded
- Coverage may be void if animal no longer resides at listed primary address
- Only listed animals are covered
ASPCA Prices
Overall, ASPCA positions itself at a midrange to slightly above-average price point within the US pet insurance market. The coverage is broad compared to entry-level plans, including accident, illness, behavioral issues, cancer treatment, prescription foods, and alternative therapies, but annual payout limits and strict pre-existing condition exclusions can limit real-world reimbursements. Deductibles and reimbursement percentages are modifiable but do not reach the lowest excess or highest payout levels seen in the most premium competitors. ASPCA’s digital-friendly management helps maintain reasonable costs but does not deliver significant discounts over competitors with similar online models like Embrace or Lemonade. Its pricing is thus in a median band—attractive for those seeking balance, though more comprehensive or less restrictive options are available at a higher cost.
| Accident Only | Complete (Accident & Illness) | |
|---|---|---|
| Young Cat (2-4 years) | $15/mo | $27/mo |
| Older Cat (7-8 years) | $22/mo | $38/mo |
| Small Dog (2-4 years) | $22/mo | $40/mo |
| Large Dog (2-4 years) | $30/mo | $52/mo |
| Senior Dog (7-8 years) | $39/mo | $66/mo |
To ensure you get the best rate for your pet’s needs, always compare several pet insurance providers side by side before choosing.
👉 Compare the best pet insurance for your furry friend for free!Start Your Free Comparison Now!ASPCA promo codes
| ASPCA Promo Codes | Details |
|---|---|
| HelloSafe Promo Code | -5% on your quote |
How much will I be reimbursed with ASPCA?
| Type of Care | Average Price (USD) | ASPCA Accident & Illness Policy(Reimbursement after deductible, up to annual limit, e.g. 80%) |
|---|---|---|
| Vaccinations (annual core) | $80 | Reimbursed $64 Out-of-pocket: $16 (excluding deductible) |
| Neutering/Spaying | $300 | Typically not covered (elective/preventive care is excluded) Out-of-pocket: $300 |
| Emergency visit (accident) | $500 | Reimbursed $400 Out-of-pocket: $100 (excluding deductible) |
| Tumor removal surgery | $1,000 | Reimbursed $800 Out-of-pocket: $200 (excluding deductible) |
| Broken leg (X-ray, splint, care) | $2,000 | Reimbursed $1,600 Out-of-pocket: $400 (excluding deductible) |
(Reimbursement after deductible, up to annual limit, e.g. 80%)
Out-of-pocket: $16 (excluding deductible)
(Reimbursement after deductible, up to annual limit, e.g. 80%)
Out-of-pocket: $300
(Reimbursement after deductible, up to annual limit, e.g. 80%)
Out-of-pocket: $100 (excluding deductible)
(Reimbursement after deductible, up to annual limit, e.g. 80%)
Out-of-pocket: $200 (excluding deductible)
(Reimbursement after deductible, up to annual limit, e.g. 80%)
Out-of-pocket: $400 (excluding deductible)
Notes:
- Example assumes maximum reimbursement rate (commonly 80%) after deductible, based on typical plans and ASPCA’s contract sample.
- Preventive or elective acts (vaccines, neutering) are not covered except when directly related to a covered accident/illness (see contract details).
- "Out-of-pocket" = remainder the pet owner pays after reimbursement, not including the annual deductible and subject to plan limits and exclusions.
- For preventive-only acts (vaccines, spay/neuter), most US pet plans (including ASPCA standard policies) do not reimburse unless wellness/optional routine coverage has been purchased.
ASPCA Assistance
ASPCA offers standard assistance with a straightforward claims process that allows online submission and supports direct veterinarian payment upon request, though direct pay at the clinic is not systematically available and most claims remain on a reimbursement basis. There is no mention of an emergency veterinary hotline, telemedicine, or a dedicated clinical partnership network, which leaves policyholders without immediate remote support or preferred pricing in urgent or critical situations. The mobile application exists but does not stand out for user experience and mainly facilitates claims management rather than providing unique digital services or advanced payment solutions. ASPCA covers pets during travel in the US, some territories, and Canada but does not insure animals for relocation or extended stays abroad. Flexible payment is possible but comes with unavoidable administrative fees unless premiums are paid annually.
| Assistance ASPCA | Available? | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Advance payment | ❌ | No advance payment service like Payvet or Carecredit is systematically available. |
| Payment options | ✅ | Monthly payment is offered but incurs non-refundable administrative fees, only annual payment is free of such charges. |
| Mobile app | ✅ | Mobile app exists for claim submission and management. Ratings and user experience are average, no distinctive UX features highlighted. |
| Online claims reimbursement | ✅ | Claims can be submitted online through the app or portal. Electronic document uploads are accepted but the process is sometimes seen as complex. |
| Emergency veterinary hotline/telemedicine | ❌ | No 24/7 emergency veterinary hotline or teleconsultation services included. |
| Network of clinics/veterinarians | ❌ | No dedicated partner network; reimbursement applies regardless of provider, but direct payment to vet is rare and must be specially requested. |
| Overseas coverage | ✅ | Covered in the US (including territories like Puerto Rico, Guam, USVI) and Canada for travel. Not valid for relocation or extended foreign stays. |
Customer Feedback on ASPCA
| Review site | Rating and number of reviews |
|---|---|
| Trustpilot | 3.8/5 (6,229 reviews) |
We have analyzed the reviews from the site listed above. On the positive side, customers who have chosen ASPCA Pet Health Insurance for their pets often mention:
- A fast and fair reimbursement process: some clients report being reimbursed within 2-3 days of claim submission, and praise the system when it works efficiently.
- A coverage that allows pet owners to manage substantial veterinary expenses: several pet owners note that the insurance helped them afford critical treatments or surgeries for their animals.
- An empathetic and supportive customer service: a few policyholders stress the caring approach of customer representatives, who inquire about the pet’s health and provide comfort in difficult times.
- The absence of discrimination by breed or dog size: clients appreciate transparent acceptance practices.
- Peace of mind: the assurance of having support during unforeseen health issues is highly valued.
On the negative side:
- A high number of claim denials due to alleged pre-existing conditions: many reviewers express frustration about claims being refused after ASPCA classified a current illness or symptom as pre-existing, sometimes for minor or unrelated prior events.
- Lack of clarity regarding coverage: policy wording and exclusions make it difficult for customers to know exactly what will be reimbursed, especially around pre-existing conditions and waiting periods.
- A cumbersome or slow claims process: policyholders report having to submit multiple documents, with extended processing times and frequent requests for additional information, making the process frustrating and inefficient.
- Perceived lack of transparency and inconsistent communication: difficulties reaching knowledgeable representatives and experiences where customers are passed between departments without resolution are frequently cited.
- Disappointment in reimbursement amounts: complaints about low payout limits, non-compliance with advertised coverage percentages, and unclear calculations are recurrent.
- Increased premiums over time: some customers indicate significant rate hikes, leading them to cancel.
- Challenges finding veterinarians who bill the insurer directly: most find they must pay up front and be reimbursed, contrary to expectations set by advertisements.
- General dissatisfaction with recent customer experience: many recent reviews mention frustration, disappointment, or the feeling of being wronged by the insurer’s decisions and claim management.
How to contact ASPCA?
| ASPCA 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 a claim online at aspcapetinsurance.com or by emailing [email protected]. Required documents: completed claims form, detailed invoices, description of treatments, proof of payment, and (if requested) your pet's complete medical records. Claims must be filed within 270 days from the treatment date. Average reimbursement time observed: 2–7 days after approval (according to customer reviews; can be longer if extra documents are needed). Reimbursement is by check or direct deposit. You can call customer service: 1-866-204-6764 for claim status. |
| To get a proof of insurance | Contact customer service by phone (1-866-204-6764) or email ([email protected]). Proof is usually sent by email or available through your online customer account. |
| To contact assistance | Phone: 1-866-204-6764 Email: [email protected] Address: 1208 Massillon Rd. Suite G 200, Akron, OH 44306, United States. You can use these contacts for any questions, urgent needs, policy details, or help with claims. |
| To cancel my contract | You can cancel at any time by emailing [email protected], calling 1-866-204-6764, or by sending a request to: ASPCA Pet Health Insurance, 1208 Massillon Rd. Suite G 200, Akron, OH 44306, United States. Include policy number, your contact details, and your cancellation request. Attach any supporting documents (e.g., signature, proof of identity if asked). No notice period; cancellation is effective upon receipt, and a prorated refund is issued for any unused premium. You have a full “money-back guarantee” if you cancel within 30 days of starting the policy—with full refund if no claim has been paid or applied to deductible. |
Required documents: completed claims form, detailed invoices, description of treatments, proof of payment, and (if requested) your pet's complete medical records.
Claims must be filed within 270 days from the treatment date.
Average reimbursement time observed: 2–7 days after approval (according to customer reviews; can be longer if extra documents are needed).
Reimbursement is by check or direct deposit. You can call customer service: 1-866-204-6764 for claim status.
Proof is usually sent by email or available through your online customer account.
Email: [email protected]
Address: 1208 Massillon Rd. Suite G 200, Akron, OH 44306, United States.
You can use these contacts for any questions, urgent needs, policy details, or help with claims.
ASPCA Pet Health Insurance, 1208 Massillon Rd. Suite G 200, Akron, OH 44306, United States.
Include policy number, your contact details, and your cancellation request.
Attach any supporting documents (e.g., signature, proof of identity if asked).
No notice period; cancellation is effective upon receipt, and a prorated refund is issued for any unused premium.
You have a full “money-back guarantee” if you cancel within 30 days of starting the policy—with full refund if no claim has been paid or applied to deductible.
FAQ
Do I have to pay vet expenses upfront with ASPCA pet insurance?
With ASPCA pet insurance, you usually need to pay your vet directly at the time of service and then submit a claim for reimbursement. While ASPCA does offer the possibility of direct payment to vets if specifically requested on the claim form and if your veterinarian agrees, most claims are handled as reimbursements to the policyholder after receiving required documentation.
How do I cancel my ASPCA pet insurance policy?
You can cancel your ASPCA pet insurance contract at any time by contacting customer service by phone or email. There is no mandatory notice period; cancellation takes effect immediately, and you may be eligible for a prorated refund on unused premiums. It’s best to provide your policy number and a written request or completed cancellation form to process your request faster.
What does ASPCA pet insurance cover and not cover?
ASPCA insurance covers dogs and cats for accidents and illnesses, including surgeries, hospitalizations, prescription medications, and more, after a 14-day waiting period. However, it excludes pre-existing conditions, preventive care (unless you add optional wellness coverage), cosmetic or elective procedures, and certain hereditary issues, especially ligament or knee problems present before coverage.
How are pre-existing conditions handled by ASPCA?
ASPCA does not cover any illness or injury that occurred or showed symptoms before your policy started or during the waiting period. However, a curable condition may be covered if your pet shows no symptoms or receives no treatment for 180 days after the initial issue (excluding knee or ligament conditions, which are permanently excluded if pre-existing).
Is there an annual maximum payout or deductible with ASPCA pet insurance?
Yes, your policy will specify an annual limit on how much can be reimbursed each policy year, as well as an annual deductible you must pay before coverage kicks in. Both amounts are chosen when you purchase your policy and appear on your declarations page. Once the annual cap is reached, no further costs are covered until the next coverage period.
Do I have to pay vet expenses upfront with ASPCA pet insurance?
With ASPCA pet insurance, you usually need to pay your vet directly at the time of service and then submit a claim for reimbursement. While ASPCA does offer the possibility of direct payment to vets if specifically requested on the claim form and if your veterinarian agrees, most claims are handled as reimbursements to the policyholder after receiving required documentation.
How do I cancel my ASPCA pet insurance policy?
You can cancel your ASPCA pet insurance contract at any time by contacting customer service by phone or email. There is no mandatory notice period; cancellation takes effect immediately, and you may be eligible for a prorated refund on unused premiums. It’s best to provide your policy number and a written request or completed cancellation form to process your request faster.
What does ASPCA pet insurance cover and not cover?
ASPCA insurance covers dogs and cats for accidents and illnesses, including surgeries, hospitalizations, prescription medications, and more, after a 14-day waiting period. However, it excludes pre-existing conditions, preventive care (unless you add optional wellness coverage), cosmetic or elective procedures, and certain hereditary issues, especially ligament or knee problems present before coverage.
How are pre-existing conditions handled by ASPCA?
ASPCA does not cover any illness or injury that occurred or showed symptoms before your policy started or during the waiting period. However, a curable condition may be covered if your pet shows no symptoms or receives no treatment for 180 days after the initial issue (excluding knee or ligament conditions, which are permanently excluded if pre-existing).
Is there an annual maximum payout or deductible with ASPCA pet insurance?
Yes, your policy will specify an annual limit on how much can be reimbursed each policy year, as well as an annual deductible you must pay before coverage kicks in. Both amounts are chosen when you purchase your policy and appear on your declarations page. Once the annual cap is reached, no further costs are covered until the next coverage period.
