Paw Protect Pet Insurance 2025: Full Review of Coverage, Pros & Cons
Our expert's opinion on Paw Protect
Paw Protect offers pet insurance for dogs and cats in the US, providing coverage for accidents, illnesses (including hereditary and chronic conditions), surgery, medications, and dental illness (with a $1,000 sub-limit), with short 2-day and 14-day waiting periods for accidents and illnesses respectively, and a 6-month orthopedic waiting period for dogs (reducible with vet exam). Paw Protect does not publish details of multiple plan tiers, exact annual limits, deductibles, or reimbursement rates, making it difficult to directly compare its value proposition to other digital-first providers; its distinguishing feature is broad accident-illness coverage but with an average rating, largely due to claim denials stemming from strict exclusion policies and a lack of wellness budgets. Paw Protect best fits owners of healthy, younger pets who seek fast coverage for accidents and new illnesses and are comfortable with standard exclusions and moderate pricing, but not those needing high reimbursement or frequent wellness services. The insurer is underwritten by Embrace Pet Insurance, a financially stable provider, but as of the latest data, Paw Protect holds a 3.0/5 Trustpilot score from 21 reviews, with feedback highlighting both very rapid and notably delayed or denied claim resolutions. Average claims processing times vary; some are paid instantly, but others can take several weeks, especially amid disputes over exclusions, placing customer experience below some market leaders.
- ✅Broad accident and illness coverage
- ✅Short 2-day accident and 14-day illness waiting period
- ✅Covers hereditary and chronic conditions
- ✅Worldwide coverage for eligible claims
- ✅Emergency ambulance service included
- ✅Behavioral therapy by vets included
- ❌Strict exclusions for pre-existing and bilateral conditions
- ❌No wellness/preventive care coverage
- ❌Dental illness capped at $1,000 annually
- ❌Very limited plan and pricing transparency
- ❌Polarized customer reviews; claim denials common
- ✅Broad accident and illness coverage
- ✅Short 2-day accident and 14-day illness waiting period
- ✅Covers hereditary and chronic conditions
- ✅Worldwide coverage for eligible claims
- ✅Emergency ambulance service included
- ✅Behavioral therapy by vets included
Our expert's opinion on Paw Protect
ScorePaw Protect offers pet insurance for dogs and cats in the US, providing coverage for accidents, illnesses (including hereditary and chronic conditions), surgery, medications, and dental illness (with a $1,000 sub-limit), with short 2-day and 14-day waiting periods for accidents and illnesses respectively, and a 6-month orthopedic waiting period for dogs (reducible with vet exam). Paw Protect does not publish details of multiple plan tiers, exact annual limits, deductibles, or reimbursement rates, making it difficult to directly compare its value proposition to other digital-first providers; its distinguishing feature is broad accident-illness coverage but with an average rating, largely due to claim denials stemming from strict exclusion policies and a lack of wellness budgets. Paw Protect best fits owners of healthy, younger pets who seek fast coverage for accidents and new illnesses and are comfortable with standard exclusions and moderate pricing, but not those needing high reimbursement or frequent wellness services. The insurer is underwritten by Embrace Pet Insurance, a financially stable provider, but as of the latest data, Paw Protect holds a 3.0/5 Trustpilot score from 21 reviews, with feedback highlighting both very rapid and notably delayed or denied claim resolutions. Average claims processing times vary; some are paid instantly, but others can take several weeks, especially amid disputes over exclusions, placing customer experience below some market leaders.
- ✅Broad accident and illness coverage
- ✅Short 2-day accident and 14-day illness waiting period
- ✅Covers hereditary and chronic conditions
- ✅Worldwide coverage for eligible claims
- ✅Emergency ambulance service included
- ✅Behavioral therapy by vets included
- ❌Strict exclusions for pre-existing and bilateral conditions
- ❌No wellness/preventive care coverage
- ❌Dental illness capped at $1,000 annually
- ❌Very limited plan and pricing transparency
- ❌Polarized customer reviews; claim denials common
- ✅Broad accident and illness coverage
- ✅Short 2-day accident and 14-day illness waiting period
- ✅Covers hereditary and chronic conditions
- ✅Worldwide coverage for eligible claims
- ✅Emergency ambulance service included
- ✅Behavioral therapy by vets included
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At HelloSafe, our pet insurance expert reviews the terms and pricing of insurance policies on the market every year to provide you with a reliable and unbiased analysis. Thanks to this rigorous approach, over one million users in the US trust us each month to guide them in their most important financial decisions.
Paw Protect Guarantees
Paw Protect offers a single, comprehensive plan for dogs and cats, covering accidents, illnesses, surgery, hospitalization, specialized diagnostics, and prescription medications, with options for annual deductible and reimbursement rates stated on each policy’s Schedule Page.
The plan stands out for its worldwide coverage, inclusion of chronic and genetic conditions, behavioral therapy, emergency ambulance, and a $1,000 annual sub-limit for dental illness, yet excludes preventive/wellness care, routine dental cleaning, and pre-existing conditions.
Notable strengths are fast accident coverage (2-day waiting period), generous inclusion of complex conditions (e.g., cancer, orthopedic), and behavioral care when prescribed by a veterinarian.
However, coverage for orthopedic conditions in dogs requires either a 6-month wait or early vet exam, and numerous service exclusions or sub-limits apply—especially for wellness and recurring or bilateral conditions.
Wellness, liability, boarding, and theft/loss are not covered, and users should review the exclusion list closely before enrolling.
| Name of coverage | Paw Protect Plan |
|---|---|
| Plan positioning | Comprehensive illness and accident reimbursement plan |
| Type of coverage (accident, illness, both, etc.) | Both accidents and illnesses |
| Animals covered (dogs, cats, other) | Dogs and cats (for companionship, not working/commercial) |
| Reimbursement rate (%) | Customizable, check Schedule Page (typ. 70–90%) |
| Annual reimbursement limit | Customizable, shown on Schedule Page |
| Deductible (annual or per claim) | Annual deductible, chosen by policyholder |
| Age limits for enrollment (for dogs and cats) | N.C. |
| Pre-enrollment health questionnaire | N.C. |
| Waiting period (illness) | 14 days |
| Waiting period (accident) | 2 days |
| Lifetime coverage once subscribed | ✅ As long as policy active and terms met |
| Vet consultations (regular + emergency) | ✅ Consults for covered conditions, if included on Schedule |
| Medications | ✅ Prescription meds if shown on Schedule |
| Hospitalization | ✅ If medically necessary |
| Surgery (including anesthesia) | ✅ If medically necessary |
| Diagnostic tests (X-ray, MRI, ultrasound, lab tests) | ✅ Covered for accidents/illness |
| Dental care (includes scaling and procedures) | ✅ Dental illness/procedures (not scaling); $1,000 max/year |
| Preventive care package (vaccines, antiparasitics, spaying/neutering, ID/microchipping) | ❌ Not covered |
| Alternative medicine (osteopathy, acupuncture, etc.) | ✅ Only as Complementary Therapy, when prescribed |
| Travel coverage (countries included, duration) | ✅ Worldwide, per policy terms |
| Civil liability | ❌ Not covered |
| Euthanasia | ✅ If medically required as result of covered condition |
| Death & cremation coverage | ❌ Not covered |
| Theft or loss of pet + search expenses | ❌ Not covered |
| Boarding fees (if owner is hospitalized) | ❌ Not covered |
Paw Protect: Conditions and Exclusions
Paw Protect requires a 6-month waiting period for orthopedic conditions in dogs (can be reduced after vet exam).
Dental illness annual sub-limit is $1,000.
Preventive, wellness, and routine care are always excluded, regardless of chosen options.
Compare Paw Protect with other top plans to find the lowest rate for your pet.
👉 Compare the best pet insurance for your furry friend for free!Start Your Free Comparison Now!Paw Protect Exclusions
Paw Protect’s exclusions encompass a broad range of standard limitations, such as all pre-existing conditions, routine and preventive care (vaccinations, spay/neuter, wellness checks), as well as cosmetic procedures and elective surgeries.
Notably strict are the exclusions for bilateral conditions—if a problem is found on one side of the body prior to coverage, both sides are excluded—and a detailed list of non-covered complementary therapies not commonly specified by competitors.
Excluded also are costs linked to persistent neglect, deliberate acts, or use of the pet for occupational, professional, or commercial activities, plus care not following veterinary advice (including refusal of vaccines against recommendation).
Certain conditions may be reconsidered for coverage only if symptom-free for 12 months, but dermatological and gastrointestinal issues have heightened scrutiny with a full-year exclusion-free period required before eligibility returns.
Compared to broader US market standards, the specificity around alternative therapies and the handling of bilateral and repeated conditions make Paw Protect’s approach particularly comprehensive in exclusions.
| Exclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Medical exclusions |
|
| Behavioral and alternative care |
|
| Owner/responsibility exclusions |
|
| Provider/execution exclusions |
|
| Procedural and scope exclusions |
|
| Geographic/external exclusions |
|
| Temporary/conditional exclusions |
|
- Pre-existing conditions (illnesses/injuries or signs before policy/waiting period ends)Bilateral conditions if previously symptomatic on one sidePreventive and routine care (vaccinations, wellness exams, parasite control, spay/neuter)Cosmetic/elective procedures (tail docking, ear cropping, declawing, etc.)
- Chronic/recurring conditions as defined in T&Cs
- Behavioral problems predating policyComplementary/alternative therapies (unless directly linked to covered treatment)
- Excluded therapies: Reiki, magnet therapy, prolotherapy, ozone therapy, hyperbaric oxygen, electroacupuncture, orthopedic manipulation, massage, bicom, TENS, shock wave therapy, nutritional counseling
- Injury/illness caused deliberately or by persistent neglectOccupational, commercial, or professional use (unless approved)Refusal to follow veterinarian advice (including vaccinations)Treatments diverging from recommendation (unless specifically authorized)
- Services by owner if a veterinary professional to own petVeterinary administration/prescription/disposal feesMedical boarding, non-treatment boardingTreatment provided outside of veterinary recommendation or authorization
- Organ transplants, genetic or chromosomal testing (unless for immediate diagnosis)Treatment for breeding, pregnancy, whelping, queeningMore than one anesthetic removal of foreign body per termGenealogical procedures
- Pandemic/epidemic outbreaks as declared by USDA; government-mandated slaughter
- Excluded events from war, civil unrest, nuclear/radiological/chemical/biological/electromagnetic incidentsCoverage limitations in such events as per policy language
- Temporary condition exclusion lifted after 12 months symptom- and treatment-free (excl. GI/dermatological conditions, which require symptom-free period before regaining eligibility)Miscellaneous: specific food, natural supplements, all foods (except Hill’s y/d for feline hyperthyroidism)
Paw Protect Prices
Paw Protect positions itself as a competitive option in the US pet insurance market, offering coverage that includes accidents, illnesses, surgery, hospitalization, and some specialty care, with reimbursement rates and limits generally in line with mainstream providers.
While its coverage is fairly comprehensive, notable exclusions—such as routine care, preventive services, and strict pre-existing condition clauses—place it among insurers with moderate, not premium, monthly costs.
Paw Protect provides a fully digital experience for policy and claims management, which helps keep administrative overhead and thus premiums lower than more traditional competitors.
This approach, along with the flexible setup for annual deductibles and coverage limits, makes it attractive for pet owners seeking reliable protection without premium pricing.
Overall, Paw Protect can be considered mid-range—offering solid value, broad core coverage, and competitive pricing compared to both budget and premium options.
| Paw Protect Plan | |
|---|---|
| Young cat (2–4 years) | $22/month |
| Senior cat (7–8 years) | $32/month |
| Small breed dog | $28/month |
| Small breed dog (2–4 years) | $26/month |
| Large breed dog (2–4 years) | $39/month |
| Senior dog (7–8 years) | $48/month |
Compare Paw Protect plans below and 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!Paw Protect Promo Codes
| Paw Protect Promo Codes | Details |
|---|---|
| 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.
How Paw Protect Reimbursement Works
With Paw Protect’s top-tier pet insurance plan, you pay just your chosen annual deductible, then Paw Protect reimburses a high percentage of eligible veterinary bills up to your annual limit. Here’s how it works in practice:
✅ Example 1: Consultation and treatment for a urinary tract infection
Total vet costs: $350 (consultation, diagnostics, prescription medication)
Deductible amount to subtract: $100 (first claim of the year)
Amount eligible after deductible: $350 – $100 = $250 90% reimbursed: $250 × 90% = $225
👉 You receive a reimbursement of $225.
ℹ️ Only the first covered claim each policy year applies toward your $100 deductible. After that, claim payouts increase.
✅ Example 2: Cruciate ligament surgery (orthopedic injury)
Total vet costs: $3,200 (surgery, hospitalization, meds, follow-up)
Deductible already met earlier in the year Amount reimbursable: $3,200 × 90% = $2,880
👉 You receive $2,880, covered up to the annual maximum for orthopedic conditions.
ℹ️ If you’ve already paid your deductible for the year, you only pay your share of each new bill.
✅ Example 3: Dental illness treatment (extractions for severe gingivitis)
Total vet costs: $1,200 (exam, dental cleaning, extractions, anesthesia)
Deductible already paid for the current policy year
Subtotal eligible for dental illness: Up to $1,000 per year 90% reimbursed: $1,000 × 90% = $900 👉 You receive $900, the maximum allowed each year for dental illness claims.
ℹ️ Any remaining cost over the $1,000 dental limit is your responsibility, even on the top plan.
Paw Protect Assistance
| Assistance Paw Protect | Available? | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Advance payment | ❌ | No advance payment or line of credit service is currently available. Policyholders must pay the vet directly first. |
| Payment facilities | N.C. | N.C. |
| Mobile app | N.C. | N.C. |
| Paperless claims process | ✅ | Claims can be filed online through a portal or by email for faster handling. |
| Emergency vet service | ❌ | No 24/7 emergency helpline or teleconsultation service reported in official materials. |
| Vet/clinic partner network | ❌ | No designated partner vet or clinic network is mentioned; you may visit any licensed veterinarian in the US. |
| Coverage abroad | ✅ | International cover is included for eligible accidents and illnesses, with worldwide coverage per policy terms. |
Customer Reviews on Paw Protect
| Review platform | Rating and number of reviews |
|---|---|
| Trustpilot | 3.0 / 5 (21 reviews) |
We analyzed reviews from the sites listed above.
On the positive side, customers who subscribed to Paw Protect for their pets often mention:
- A fast claims process for some users, with reports of claims approved in real-time over the phone.
- An emergency payment to veterinarians for urgent surgery, which some policyholders found decisive in critical moments.
- A courteous and helpful customer support experience in several cases.
- Clear communication and satisfactory claims outcomes for some long-term customers, with reimbursement typically processed within a couple of weeks.
On the negative side:
- A high rate of claim denials, most frequently attributed to “pre-existing condition” exclusions, even for what policyholders consider new or unrelated health issues.
- A perception among some customers that the company uses loopholes or technicalities to avoid payment, including exclusions for injuries on one side if the other was previously affected.
- A discontinued $5,000 line of credit feature, which several describe as “bait and switch” after initial advertising.
- Extended delays in some claims, requiring repeated follow-up and communication gaps between customers, veterinarians, and the insurer.
- A noticeable drop in user satisfaction following the removal of unique features and increased premium rates for some policyholders.
Contact Paw Protect
| Paw Protect 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 | Submit your completed claim form, veterinary invoice, and any required supporting documents through the customer portal (pawprotect-dev.embracepetinsurance.com), email [email protected], fax (800) 238-1042, or mail to Embrace Pet Insurance Claims Department, P.O. Box 22188, Beachwood, OH 44122-0188. Reimbursements are issued to your chosen payment method; most claims are processed in 10-15 business days. |
| To obtain a certificate of insurance | Call Paw Protect at (888) 812-6704 or email [email protected] requesting your certificate; provide your policy number and pet’s details for faster processing. |
| To contact assistance | For customer support or questions, call (888) 812-6704 or email [email protected]. For urgent medical questions, consult your veterinarian directly, as there is no dedicated emergency helpline documented. |
| To cancel my policy | Call (888) 812-6704 or email [email protected] stating your intent to cancel. Include your policy number, pet’s details, and requested cancellation date. Written notice is recommended. No specific notice period or forms required, but cancellations are effective upon notice and you may be eligible for a pro-rata refund in accordance with your policy terms. |
FAQ
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with Paw Protect?
Paw Protect generally requires you to pay your veterinarian upfront for services. Afterward, you can submit a claim with all required documentation to request reimbursement. There is currently no advance payment or third-party payment feature available for veterinary providers, except in certain emergency cases arranged directly with customer service.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with Paw Protect?
You can cancel your Paw Protect policy at any time by calling customer service or sending a written request by email. There is no minimum notice period, but it is best to include your policy number, pet’s details, and your requested cancellation date for prompt processing.
What is covered by the Paw Protect pet insurance policy?
Paw Protect covers accidents and most illnesses for cats and dogs, including hereditary, chronic, orthopedic, and cancer conditions, subject to waiting periods and policy terms. Dental illness coverage is included up to a sub-limit, and additional therapies or behavioral treatments may be covered if medically necessary. Preventive care and most routine wellness services are not included.
Are pre-existing conditions covered under Paw Protect?
Pre-existing conditions and symptoms that existed before your policy or during the waiting period are not covered by Paw Protect. This also includes any bilateral conditions if symptoms appeared on either side before enrollment. Some temporary exclusions may be lifted if your pet remains symptom- and treatment-free for 12 months.
How do I file and track a claim with Paw Protect?
To make a claim, submit the claim form along with itemized veterinary invoices and medical records via the customer portal, by email, fax, or mail. Most claims are reviewed and processed within 10 to 15 business days. You’ll receive reimbursement by your chosen payment method or check, and you can track claim status through your online account or by phone.
What isn’t covered by Paw Protect insurance?
The policy excludes pre-existing conditions, preventive care, cosmetic or elective procedures, boarding, breeding, and alternative treatments unless expressly covered. Certain therapies and supplements, diseases preventable by vaccination, complications from non-covered conditions, and events such as war or pandemics are also excluded. Always check your policy for the full list of exclusions.
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with Paw Protect?
Paw Protect generally requires you to pay your veterinarian upfront for services. Afterward, you can submit a claim with all required documentation to request reimbursement. There is currently no advance payment or third-party payment feature available for veterinary providers, except in certain emergency cases arranged directly with customer service.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with Paw Protect?
You can cancel your Paw Protect policy at any time by calling customer service or sending a written request by email. There is no minimum notice period, but it is best to include your policy number, pet’s details, and your requested cancellation date for prompt processing.
What is covered by the Paw Protect pet insurance policy?
Paw Protect covers accidents and most illnesses for cats and dogs, including hereditary, chronic, orthopedic, and cancer conditions, subject to waiting periods and policy terms. Dental illness coverage is included up to a sub-limit, and additional therapies or behavioral treatments may be covered if medically necessary. Preventive care and most routine wellness services are not included.
Are pre-existing conditions covered under Paw Protect?
Pre-existing conditions and symptoms that existed before your policy or during the waiting period are not covered by Paw Protect. This also includes any bilateral conditions if symptoms appeared on either side before enrollment. Some temporary exclusions may be lifted if your pet remains symptom- and treatment-free for 12 months.
How do I file and track a claim with Paw Protect?
To make a claim, submit the claim form along with itemized veterinary invoices and medical records via the customer portal, by email, fax, or mail. Most claims are reviewed and processed within 10 to 15 business days. You’ll receive reimbursement by your chosen payment method or check, and you can track claim status through your online account or by phone.
What isn’t covered by Paw Protect insurance?
The policy excludes pre-existing conditions, preventive care, cosmetic or elective procedures, boarding, breeding, and alternative treatments unless expressly covered. Certain therapies and supplements, diseases preventable by vaccination, complications from non-covered conditions, and events such as war or pandemics are also excluded. Always check your policy for the full list of exclusions.
