Is Pawp Pet Insurance Worth It? Full Review 2025
Our Expert's Opinion on Pawp
Pawp proposes a unique emergency fund rather than a classic pet insurance, providing up to $3,000 reimbursement per household for a single life-threatening veterinary emergency per year, after mandatory prior video consultation with a Pawp vet. With a monthly subscription and no long-term commitment, the coverage is accessible even to pets with pre-existing conditions—an uncommon trait in the market. The reimbursement structure is strict (single annual payout, no rollover, only one incident covered, and no deductible), focusing solely on vital emergencies validated in real time. Compared to major competitors like Spot or Dutch, Pawp offers a lower-cost, no-deductible model tailored for owners prioritizing catastrophic event protection over ongoing or routine care. Its price is competitive for households mainly concerned about one-off, high-expense risks, particularly those with older pets or pre-existing health issues typically excluded elsewhere, and those who value easy subscription and minimal exclusions for emergencies. However, customers should note that Pawp is not a traditional insurer and imposes significant requirements (pre-approval by Pawp professionals, strict timing, exclusion of preventative or follow-up care). On Trustpilot, Pawp’s user rating is modest at 2.8/5 (869 reviews), with recurring complaints about service responsiveness and claim denials; however, successful claims are processed within 5–7 business days. The company is established nationwide in the US, but lags behind many direct competitors for customer satisfaction and breadth of coverage.
- Monthly subscription, cancel anytime, no long-term commitment
- Covers both dogs and cats, any age or breed
- No health questionnaire or medical exclusion for emergencies
- Up to $3,000 reimbursed per household/year for validated emergencies
- Pre-existing conditions covered in emergencies
- 24/7 access to licensed veterinary telehealth
- Fast claim processing, average 5–7 business days
- Only one emergency covered per year per household
- Requires video consultation with Pawp vet for validation before care
- Many routine, preventive, or follow-up treatments excluded
- Strict reimbursement deadlines and documentation requirements
- Low customer satisfaction (2.8/5 from 869 reviews on Trustpilot)
- Pawp Guarantees
- Pawp exclusions
- Pawp Pricing
- Pawp Support
- Customer feedback on Pawp
- How to contact Pawp?
- FAQ
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At HelloSafe, our pet insurance expert reviews the terms and rates of policies on the US market every year to provide you with reliable and unbiased analysis. Thanks to this commitment, hundreds of thousands of users across the US trust us each month to help them make their most important financial decisions.
Pawp Guarantees
Pawp is positioned as an emergency fund rather than classic pet insurance, offering a single $3,000 reimbursement per year per household strictly for life-threatening emergencies validated through a prior video consult with a Pawp vet. There is no deductible, no age limit, and coverage applies to both dogs and cats without a health questionnaire, including pre-existing conditions in a true emergency. The fund uniquely covers any licensed veterinarian across the US, does not advance payments, and excludes preventive, routine, or follow-up care. Major advantages include immediate access to 24/7 veterinary teleconsultation, potential coverage for pre-existing emergencies, and no annual contract commitments. However, limitations are significant: coverage is capped at one incident annually, excludes all non-urgent care, and requires strict procedural compliance for payout.
| Guarantee Name | Pawp Emergency Fund (the only offering) |
|---|---|
| Positioning of the plan | Emergency medical fund, not standard insurance |
| Type of coverage | Life-threatening emergencies only (accident or illness) |
| Covered animals | Dogs and cats, breed agnostic |
| Reimbursement rate (%) | Covers 100% of eligible vet bill up to $3,000 |
| Annual reimbursement cap | $3,000 per household for one single emergency |
| Annual/per-visit deductible | None |
| Min/max age at enrollment (cats) | No age restrictions |
| Min/max age at enrollment (dogs) | No age restrictions |
| Health questionnaire required? | No health questionnaire required |
| Waiting period for illness | 14 days post activation |
| Waiting period for accident | 14 days post activation |
| Lifetime guarantee if enrolled? | Fund eligibility as long as continuous payments |
| Veterinary consultations (routine/ER/specialist) | Covers eligible ER visit after video pre-approval |
| Medications | Meds during covered ER visit, only as part of emergency |
| Hospitalization | Covered if part of eligible emergency |
| Ambulance expenses | NC |
| Surgery, anesthesia | Covered if performed as part of validated emergency |
| CT/MRI/ultrasound | Covered if part of eligible ER treatment |
| Lab analyses | Covered if required for ER treatment |
| Radiotherapy | NC |
| Dentistry | Not covered (neither routine nor emergency dental) |
| Scale & polish (teeth cleaning) | Not covered |
| Preventive care allowance (amount/inclusions) | Not covered - no preventive or routine care |
| Alternative therapies (osteopathy, acupuncture...) | Not covered |
| Prescription diets | Not covered |
| Covered regions / travel | Any licensed vet in the USA |
| Death / cremation | Up to $250 for emergency-related euthanasia/cremation |
| Euthanasia | Covered if part of emergency capped at $250 |
| Theft/loss/search fees | Not covered |
| Boarding costs | Not covered |
Good to know
The $3,000 cap applies to a single emergency per year and does not roll over; you must contact Pawp via app/video and receive pre-approval before visiting any vet, and reimbursement is strictly conditional on this process and documentation within 14 days post-treatment. Preventive care, repeat visits, diagnostics or therapies not directly tied to the covered emergency, breeding/pregnancy-related care, and all non-emergency expenses are excluded—this is not a substitute for traditional pet health insurance.
Pawp exclusions
Pawp Emergency Fund imposes strict exclusions that differentiate it sharply from standard pet insurance: only one life-threatening emergency per year is eligible for reimbursement and must be validated in advance via a live Pawp vet video consult. Any urgent visit performed without this video validation, or more than 8 hours afterward, is automatically excluded, and so are all non-urgent, preventive, scheduled, or follow-up treatments—even dental routine, post-discharge care, or reproduction-related events. Notably, Pawp does not cover any care resulting from owner negligence, lack of recommended vaccinations, or incidents linked to epidemics declared by USDA. Cremation costs above $250 and all elective treatments such as prosthetics, organ transplants, genetic testing, or daycare expenses are strictly outside coverage. Careful compliance with all procedures (timing, upfront vet call, document deadlines, proof of animal ownership) is mandatory, as any lapse voids entitlement to the emergency fund.
| Exclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Medical Exclusions | - Any emergency care delivered before Pawp vet validation or more than 8 hours after approval - All preventive, dental routine, scheduled, or non-urgent care - Post-emergency follow-up, control visits, wound care, or appointments - Prosthetics, organ transplants, genetic testing, vaccinations, deworming - Reproduction-related incidents (pregnancy, lactation, newborns, weaning) - Care due to owner negligence, abuse, or non-compliance with recommended vaccinations - Diseases/accidents linked to official epidemics/pandemics (USDA declared) - Cremation costs above $250 or keepsakes |
| Geographic Exclusions | - Only clinics and veterinarians within the U.S. territory eligible for reimbursement |
| Identification & Procedural Exclusions | - Coverage void if animal ownership cannot be proven (microchip, license, registration) - Emergency fund not transferrable to another animal or member - Any interruption in subscription or incomplete animal profile cancels eligibility - Claims must be submitted within 14 days of discharge; delays result in denial |
| Administrative Exclusions | - Only one reimbursement per year per household, non-renewable or cumulative - Non-respect of deadlines or procedures forfeits all rights to the fund |
- All preventive, dental routine, scheduled, or non-urgent care
- Post-emergency follow-up, control visits, wound care, or appointments
- Prosthetics, organ transplants, genetic testing, vaccinations, deworming
- Reproduction-related incidents (pregnancy, lactation, newborns, weaning)
- Care due to owner negligence, abuse, or non-compliance with recommended vaccinations
- Diseases/accidents linked to official epidemics/pandemics (USDA declared)
- Cremation costs above $250 or keepsakes
- Emergency fund not transferrable to another animal or member
- Any interruption in subscription or incomplete animal profile cancels eligibility
- Claims must be submitted within 14 days of discharge; delays result in denial
- Non-respect of deadlines or procedures forfeits all rights to the fund
Pawp Pricing
Globally, Pawp is positioned as an economical but limited solution in the U.S. pet insurance market. As a pure digital player, Pawp minimizes its fixed costs, which allows it to offer one of the lowest monthly premiums; however, in return, coverage is strictly limited to a single, vet-validated life-threatening emergency per year (up to $3,000), with no routine, preventive, or follow-up care included. This contrasts with traditional insurers offering comprehensive or premium plans that reimburse multiple claims annually and provide coverage for chronic illnesses, ongoing treatments, and prevention—services that justify higher costs. Franchises (deductibles) are absent, but the access process is restrictive (mandatory video consultation before physical vet visit), which may complicate claims. Pawp mainly targets cost-conscious owners seeking affordable, last-resort protection, but it cannot be considered equivalent to full pet health insurance.
| Pawp Emergency Fund | |
|---|---|
| Young cat (2 - 4 years) | $24/mo |
| Senior cat (7 - 8 years) | $24/mo |
| Small breed dog (2 - 4 years) | $24/mo |
| Large breed dog (2 - 4 years) | $24/mo |
| Senior dog (7 - 8 years) | $24/mo |
Compare carefully to get the best possible rate for your pet’s real needs.
👉 Compare the best pet insurance for your furry friend for free!Start Your Free Comparison Now!Pawp promo codes
| Codes promos Pawp | Détails |
|---|---|
| Code promo HelloSafe | -5% sur votre devis |
Note: Promo codes are subject to change. To get the latest promo codes, visit our comparison of the best pet insurance.
How much will I be reimbursed with Pawp?
| Veterinary care | Average price (US$) | Pawp Emergency Fund (up to $3,000, one emergency/year, excluding preventive or scheduled care) |
|---|---|---|
| Emergency consultation | $200 | Reimbursed $200 Out-of-pocket: $0 (excluding deductible) If the emergency is life-threatening and validated. |
| Spaying / neutering | $400 | Not reimbursed Out-of-pocket: $400 |
| Annual vaccines | $100 | Not reimbursed Out-of-pocket: $100 |
| Fracture requiring surgery | $2,500 | Reimbursed $2,500 Out-of-pocket: $0 (excluding deductible) If the emergency is life-threatening and validated. |
| Hospitalization for poisoning | $1,500 | Reimbursed $1,500 Out-of-pocket: $0 (excluding deductible) If the emergency is life-threatening and validated. |
Out-of-pocket: $0 (excluding deductible)
If the emergency is life-threatening and validated.
Out-of-pocket: $400
Out-of-pocket: $100
Out-of-pocket: $0 (excluding deductible)
If the emergency is life-threatening and validated.
Out-of-pocket: $0 (excluding deductible)
If the emergency is life-threatening and validated.
Pawp Support
Pawp stands out by offering 24/7 access to a team of licensed veterinarians via its mobile app, ensuring immediate support and triage in case of emergencies or routine questions. The Emergency Fund provides coverage for a single, veterinarian-validated life-threatening event annually, up to $3,000, but requires strict adherence to pre-approval and documentation protocols, and no funds are advanced at the clinic. There is no network of partner clinics, and no direct payment to providers—clients must pay upfront and seek reimbursement, with documentation submitted within 14 days and subject to approval. No payment flexibility or installment plans are offered, and routine care, follow-ups, or preventive services are excluded, which limits the overall scope of financial assistance. User reviews highlight the application's ease of use but frequently raise concerns about delays, communication quality, and exclusions, suggesting practical assistance may be inconsistent in stressful situations.
| Assistance Pawp | Disponible ? | Détails |
|---|---|---|
| Advance payment | ❌ | No advance payment at the clinic. User must pay all fees upfront, then seek reimbursement once event is validated by Pawp. |
| Payment facilities | ❌ | No installment plans or split payment options are available. Payment is monthly by subscription, no flexibility offered. |
| Mobile application | ✅ | Available on iOS and Android. Average user rating is around 3/5 (Trustpilot: 2.8/5). App enables 24/7 chat/video with vets, access to personalized care plans, basic claims management. Usability is appreciated by some, but issues are reported regarding responsiveness and difficulty reaching human support. |
| Digital reimbursement management | ✅ | Claims are submitted online through the client portal. All documentation (invoice, records) must be uploaded within 14 days. Processing takes 5–7 business days if complete. |
| Veterinary emergency | ✅ | 24/7 telemedicine with licensed vets is standard; an emergency fund is accessible for one critical incident per year, only after case validation via video call. |
| Partner clinic/veterinary network | ❌ | No preferred or partner clinic network. Valid at any licensed veterinarian in the U.S., but no negotiated rates or fast-track services. |
| International coverage | ❌ | Coverage is strictly limited to the United States. No protection during travel abroad or for non-U.S. residents. |
Customer feedback on Pawp
| Review Site | Rating and Number of Reviews |
|---|---|
| Trustpilot | 2.8/5 (869 reviews) |
We have analyzed the reviews from the site listed above. On the positive side, pet owners who have enrolled with Pawp commonly mention:
- A 24/7 emergency support service: the possibility to get immediate advice from veterinary professionals at any time is greatly appreciated.
- Occasional prompt and effective assistance: some customers highlight professional advice, a user-friendly app, and, in rare cases, quick claim processing (with reimbursement for emergency care within 5 days).
- Peace of mind with emergency coverage: a few clients express satisfaction at having the emergency fund available during a true crisis and praise the ability to cancel at any time.
On the negative side:
- A customer service considered difficult to reach: many customers report frustrating interactions with bots instead of real people, significant response delays (sometimes days), and difficulty finding human assistance.
- Significant issues with reimbursements: customers often complain that claims are denied for unclear or arbitrary reasons, requirements are complex or perceived as excessive (such as tight deadlines to submit documentation), and the process is not as transparent as expected.
- Confusing communication and lack of transparency: several reviews cite confusion regarding eligibility, changes in policies without notice, unclear limits on prescriptions, and insufficient information on what is genuinely covered.
- Perception of limited benefit: a number of users feel the advice merely defaults to “see a physical vet,” making the service seem redundant or unhelpful, and some refer to the emergency fund as a “scam.”
- Operational frustrations: long wait times to contact an advisor, issues with billing and difficulty canceling subscriptions, as well as frustrations over business model changes (from upfront payment to reimbursement only), all contribute to a negative experience for many clients.
How to contact Pawp?
| Pawp customer service | Details |
|---|---|
| To get a quote or subscribe online | You can use the HelloSafe pet insurance comparison tool, choose the formula that suits you and click to get a quote. You can also subscribe directly on the website www.pawp.com. No direct contact needed to get a quote or subscribe: everything is done online, quickly, without commitment. |
| To request and track a reimbursement | The request is made via the Pawp client portal. Procedure: - Log in to your personal area. - After emergency validation by Pawp videoconference: go to “Claims”. - Provide the final invoice, the animal's medical file and the clinic's contact details. - Deadline: 14 days to submit your file after leaving the clinic. - Processing time: 5 to 7 working days if complete file. - Payment method: ACH transfer or postal check. For assistance: [email protected] |
| To obtain an insurance certificate | Send your request by email to: [email protected] Or request it via the online client portal. Specify the required information (identity, animal concerned). No particular document required, but having an up-to-date profile will help with issuance. |
| To contact assistance | Assistance available 24/7 via: - Pawp app (chat, videoconference, message) - Email: [email protected] No phone number available: please use the portal or email. For any emergency or medical question, use the app or website to start a conversation with a veterinary health professional. |
| To cancel my contract | Cancellation is completely free, without notice: log in to your Pawp area and follow the cancellation process. You can also send a request to [email protected] with your name, email address linked to your account and the name/identity of your pet. No supporting document required; the cancellation takes effect at the end of the already paid subscription period. |
You can also subscribe directly on the website www.pawp.com.
No direct contact needed to get a quote or subscribe: everything is done online, quickly, without commitment.
Procedure:
- Log in to your personal area.
- After emergency validation by Pawp videoconference: go to “Claims”.
- Provide the final invoice, the animal's medical file and the clinic's contact details.
- Deadline: 14 days to submit your file after leaving the clinic.
- Processing time: 5 to 7 working days if complete file.
- Payment method: ACH transfer or postal check.
For assistance: [email protected]
Or request it via the online client portal.
Specify the required information (identity, animal concerned).
No particular document required, but having an up-to-date profile will help with issuance.
- Pawp app (chat, videoconference, message)
- Email: [email protected]
No phone number available: please use the portal or email.
For any emergency or medical question, use the app or website to start a conversation with a veterinary health professional.
You can also send a request to [email protected] with your name, email address linked to your account and the name/identity of your pet.
No supporting document required; the cancellation takes effect at the end of the already paid subscription period.
FAQ
Do I have to pay the vet bills upfront with Pawp?
With Pawp, you must pay your veterinary bill upfront. Pawp does not offer direct payment or advance-on-bill services to clinics (no pet direct pay/third-party pay like Payvet). After your claim is validated, you submit your invoice for reimbursement up to $3,000 once per year, covering a single, life-threatening emergency.
How can I cancel my Pawp pet insurance contract?
You can cancel your Pawp membership at any time directly from your account dashboard—no notice period is required. Simply log in, go to your settings, and follow the cancellation process. There’s no need to provide documentation, but coverage ends at the conclusion of your paid period and unused funds are lost.
What emergencies are covered by Pawp’s Emergency Fund?
Pawp covers one eligible, life-threatening emergency per year, such as toxic ingestion, choking, or severe blockages. Coverage is only granted if the Pawp vet validates the emergency via video consult before you visit your vet. Routine care, pre-planned surgeries, and non-emergencies are not covered.
Does Pawp cover pre-existing conditions?
Yes, Pawp may cover an emergency related to a pre-existing condition, provided it is deemed a genuine, life-threatening emergency by a Pawp veterinarian during your video consultation. However, routine or preventive treatment related to such conditions is not included.
Are there waiting periods or restrictions before coverage begins?
Yes, there is a mandatory 14-day waiting period after you start or reactivate your membership before you can use the Emergency Fund. Emergencies that occur during this waiting period are not covered. Additionally, only cats and dogs can be covered, and you must maintain continuous payments for eligibility.
Do I have to pay the vet bills upfront with Pawp?
With Pawp, you must pay your veterinary bill upfront. Pawp does not offer direct payment or advance-on-bill services to clinics (no pet direct pay/third-party pay like Payvet). After your claim is validated, you submit your invoice for reimbursement up to $3,000 once per year, covering a single, life-threatening emergency.
How can I cancel my Pawp pet insurance contract?
You can cancel your Pawp membership at any time directly from your account dashboard—no notice period is required. Simply log in, go to your settings, and follow the cancellation process. There’s no need to provide documentation, but coverage ends at the conclusion of your paid period and unused funds are lost.
What emergencies are covered by Pawp’s Emergency Fund?
Pawp covers one eligible, life-threatening emergency per year, such as toxic ingestion, choking, or severe blockages. Coverage is only granted if the Pawp vet validates the emergency via video consult before you visit your vet. Routine care, pre-planned surgeries, and non-emergencies are not covered.
Does Pawp cover pre-existing conditions?
Yes, Pawp may cover an emergency related to a pre-existing condition, provided it is deemed a genuine, life-threatening emergency by a Pawp veterinarian during your video consultation. However, routine or preventive treatment related to such conditions is not included.
Are there waiting periods or restrictions before coverage begins?
Yes, there is a mandatory 14-day waiting period after you start or reactivate your membership before you can use the Emergency Fund. Emergencies that occur during this waiting period are not covered. Additionally, only cats and dogs can be covered, and you must maintain continuous payments for eligibility.
