Is Petco Pet Insurance Worth It? Our Review 2025
Our expert opinion on Petco
Petco (DVM Insurance Agency) offers a flexible pet insurance contract in the US, built around a core "Percent of Invoice" medical coverage with optional wellness and preventive add-ons. Contract terms allow customization of reimbursement rate (typically 70–90%), annual deductible, and overall coverage limits, which are specified on the individual policy page, making Petco price positioning highly variable and able to suit a range of budgets. Unlike some fixed packages from competitors like Healthy Paws or ASPCA, Petco stands out with modular wellness/prevention options for vaccines, exam fees, and routine care—ideal for owners wanting to bundle illness, accident, and routine checkups under the same plan. Petco's coverage is especially adapted to young or middle-aged cats and dogs with no recent major health issues, and owners seeking annual wellness budgeting or managing chronic conditions with coverage for prescribed food and equipment. However, Petco faces a significant reputational challenge: its Trustpilot score is extremely low at 1.4/5 from over 1,500 reviews, with frequent client complaints centered on product/service delivery, customer support, and processes. The claims process is documentation-intensive, with annual deductible, capped benefits, and strict rules on pre-existing and hereditary issues. No published claims processing times or financial figures for DVM Insurance, but the broader Petco brand is established nationwide.
- Highly customizable coverage with variable reimbursement and deductible
- Optional wellness/preventive care benefits (vaccines, microchip, routine exam)
- Reimbursements for prescribed veterinary food and durable equipment
- Covers chronic conditions if diagnosed after policy start
- Documentation and transparency on included and excluded items
- Claims reviewed per annual deductible, not per incident
- Established national brand offering digital claim submissions
- Very poor Trustpilot rating (1.4/5, 1,500+ reviews)
- Strict exclusions for pre-existing and hereditary conditions
- No coverage for most behavioral or elective treatments
- Annual limit and wellness cap can restrict reimbursements
- Claims process described as demanding and paperwork-heavy
- Petco Guarantees
- Petco exclusions
- Petco prices
- Petco Assistance
- Customer reviews on Petco
- How to contact Petco?
- FAQ
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At HelloSafe, our pet insurance expert reviews the terms and pricing of policies on the US market every year to provide you with reliable and impartial analysis. Thanks to this commitment, hundreds of thousands of users across the US trust us each month to help guide their most important financial decisions.
Petco Guarantees
Petco, via DVM Insurance, offers a flexible "Percent of Invoice" plan with core protection for accidents, illness, and chronic conditions, and an optional wellness add-on for preventive care. The plan is highly customizable: annual deductible and reimbursement rate (typically 80% or 90%) are chosen by the owner, but key financial thresholds (annual benefit cap, deductible amount) are determined individually on the policy documents. Petco distinguishes itself with coverage of prescribed therapeutic foods and a broad wellness/preventive menu (vaccines, microchipping, sterilization, dental, genetic screening) when the option is selected. However, there are notable gaps: pre-existing conditions and certain orthopedic injuries are systematically excluded, alternative therapies are only covered if specifically veterinarian-prescribed for an eligible condition, and exact benefit limits (annual maximum, wellness cap) are not publicly standardized. Petco’s plan is particularly strong on modularity and prevention but should be chosen with care due to its many exclusions and strict claims process.
| Guarantee Name | "Percent of Invoice" Core Plan | Wellness/Preventive Option (if selected) |
|---|---|---|
| Plan positioning | Customizable accident/illness plan | Optional preventive and routine care package |
| Type of coverage | Accidents, illness, chronic conditions | Vaccines, wellness exams, dental, preventive only |
| Covered animals | Cats and dogs | Cats and dogs |
| Reimbursement rate (%) | 80% or 90% (chosen at enrollment) | Not applicable; capped annual benefit |
| Annual reimbursement limit (vet fees) | Set individually (see policy document) | Separate annual limit set per policy |
| Deductible (annual/per-incident) | Chosen at enrollment, annual application | No deductible (most care capped per year) |
| Min/max enrollment age (cats) | Not communicated | Not communicated |
| Min/max enrollment age (dogs) | Not communicated | Not communicated |
| Health questionnaire required | Not communicated | Not communicated |
| Waiting period for illness | Not communicated | Not applicable |
| Waiting period for accident | Not communicated | Not applicable |
| Lifetime cover once insured? | Not communicated | Not communicated |
| Vet consultations (routine/emergency) | Covered for eligible conditions | Covered if part of annual wellness exam |
| Medications | Covered if prescribed for eligible illness | Not covered unless as part of vaccine/preventive |
| Hospitalization | Covered for eligible conditions | Not covered |
| Ambulance costs | Covered if medically necessary | Not covered |
| Surgery, anesthesia | Covered for eligible conditions | Not covered |
| MRI, CT scans, ultrasound | Covered for eligible conditions | Not covered |
| Lab tests | Covered for eligible conditions | Covered if routine annual panels (blood, urine) |
| Radiation therapy | Covered for eligible conditions | Not covered |
| Dental (therapeutic, non-routine) | Covered if linked to eligible illness | Dental cleaning covered (prevention only) |
| Dental scaling (routine cleaning) | Not covered | Covered; annual cleaning (preventive only) |
| Prevention package (inclusions/amount) | Not included | Includes vaccines, bloodwork, microchipping, deworming, spay/neuter, annual limit applies |
| Alternative medicine (acupuncture, etc.) | Covered only if prescribed for covered illness | Not covered |
| Prescribed diet food | Covered (veterinarian prescription required) | Not covered |
| Countries/travel coverage | Not communicated | Not communicated |
| Death/cremation | Not covered | Not covered |
| Euthanasia | Not covered | Not covered |
| Lost/stolen animal, search costs | Not covered | Not covered |
| Boarding fees | Not covered | Not covered |
Annual benefit limits, deductible, and full list of eligible items found only on each policy's individual Declarations Page.
Good to know
Annual maxima for both illness/accident and wellness/preventive coverage vary by individual contract and are not published in advance. Coverage strictly excludes pre-existing conditions (any diagnosed or symptomatic in the past 12 months or before contract initiation), and certain injuries (notably ligament injuries in the first policy year) are excluded. Strict claims documentation is required, with claims deadlines and detailed vet invoices needed. Therapies for behavioral/training, boarding, transportation, and non-medical costs are never covered.
Petco exclusions
Exclusions under the DVM Insurance Agency contract for Petco are consistent with standard industry practices, excluding pre-existing conditions (any illness or injury present or showing clinical signs in the 12 months prior to policy inception or during the waiting period) and treatments occurring before coverage begins. Notably, injuries to the cruciate ligament or meniscus are specifically excluded during the first 12 months unless the pet is continuously covered, a restriction that can impact dogs especially prone to such issues. The contract systematically refuses costs not directly linked to veterinary medical necessity, such as preventive care (unless wellness is selected), behavioral training by non-veterinarians, boarding, grooming, dietary supplements, and all non-veterinary prescribed articles. Experimental treatments, prohibited substances, and cosmetic procedures are permanent exclusions unless medically necessary and detailed in the contract. Additionally, any costs related to breeding, intentional harm, or regulatory/tax fees, as well as double insurance claims, are firmly excluded, reinforcing a strict scope of insurability.
| Exclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Medical-related exclusions | - Pre-existing conditions and their complications - Conditions diagnosed/treated before coverage start - Certain illnesses specifically excluded on contract - Cruciate/meniscal ligament injuries during first 12 months unless continuously insured - Supplementation, acupuncture, alternative therapy unless prescribed for a covered illness/injury - Experimental treatments and use of illegal substances - Breeding, reproduction and associated complications - Procedures not medically necessary (declawing, ear cropping, tail docking, dental only if not part of covered treatment) - Nutrition/supplements unless prescription food documented by a veterinarian |
| Non-medical exclusions | - Boarding, transportation, grooming, toys, clothing, containers - Fees not related to veterinary act (waste disposal, taxes, certifications, payment commissions) - Club memberships, care plans, veterinary cashback programs - Services not veterinarian-prescribed |
| Behavioral and training exclusion | - Obedience training - Behavioral therapy unless veterinarian-prescribed |
| Geographical/timeframe exclusions | - Events happening before policy start or outside policy period - Claims submitted more than 90 days after first incurred expense |
| Identification/administrative | - Costs tied to administrative procedures (regulatory registration, microchip unless part of wellness if selected) - Double insurance (no stacking of benefits if multiple DVM contracts) |
| Exclusions due to owner/fraud | - Acts of intentional harm or neglect by policyholder or household - Fraudulent misrepresentation or omission of material information |
| Force majeure and regulatory | - Claims arising from war, conflict, nuclear/radiation events |
- Conditions diagnosed/treated before coverage start
- Certain illnesses specifically excluded on contract
- Cruciate/meniscal ligament injuries during first 12 months unless continuously insured
- Supplementation, acupuncture, alternative therapy unless prescribed for a covered illness/injury
- Experimental treatments and use of illegal substances
- Breeding, reproduction and associated complications
- Procedures not medically necessary (declawing, ear cropping, tail docking, dental only if not part of covered treatment)
- Nutrition/supplements unless prescription food documented by a veterinarian
- Fees not related to veterinary act (waste disposal, taxes, certifications, payment commissions)
- Club memberships, care plans, veterinary cashback programs
- Services not veterinarian-prescribed
- Behavioral therapy unless veterinarian-prescribed
- Claims submitted more than 90 days after first incurred expense
- Double insurance (no stacking of benefits if multiple DVM contracts)
- Fraudulent misrepresentation or omission of material information
Petco prices
Overall, Petco positions itself with an average price point relative to the US pet insurance market. Its structure, offering a core medical plan with an optional wellness add-on, is flexible but not the most comprehensive, as high benefit limits and ultra-low deductibles are not standard. Included wellness/preventive coverage is only available upon request and subject to its own annual cap, which narrows full-spectrum access compared with top-tier providers. As a hybrid player with both traditional and digital channels, Petco may achieve moderate administrative cost savings but does not fully leverage a cost advantage like pure digital insurers. In summary, Petco’s insurance is in a median position: not the cheapest, not the most exhaustive, but a balanced solution for average coverage and price sensitivity.
| Basic Medical Plan | Medical + Wellness Option | |
|---|---|---|
| Young cat (2–4 yrs) | $27/mo | $36/mo |
| Senior cat (7–8 yrs) | $35/mo | $45/mo |
| Small-breed dog | $34/mo | $46/mo |
| Small-breed dog (2–4 yrs) | $30/mo | $40/mo |
| Large-breed dog (2–4 yrs) | $43/mo | $59/mo |
| Senior dog (7–8 yrs) | $58/mo | $78/mo |
To ensure you get the best value for your pet’s profile, compare multiple providers and coverage options before deciding—savings can be significant depending on your companion’s age and breed.
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| Petco Promo Codes | Details |
|---|---|
| Code promo HelloSafe | -5% on your quote |
Note: Promo codes may change. For the latest promo codes, visit our comparison of the best pet insurance options.
How much will I be reimbursed with Petco?
| Treatment | Average Price (USD) | Coverage "Medical Only" (90% reimbursement, excluding deductible) | Coverage "Wellness Option" (preventive care, capped) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Neutering / Spaying | $300 | Not covered (Prevention only) | Reimbursed $300 (if within wellness cap) Out-of-pocket: $0 (excluding deductible and within annual Wellness limit) |
| Annual vaccinations | $80 | Not covered | Reimbursed $80 (if within wellness cap) Out-of-pocket: $0 (excluding deductible and within annual Wellness limit) |
| Sickness / injury consultation | $120 | Reimbursed $108 Out-of-pocket: $12 (excluding deductible) | Reimbursed $108 Out-of-pocket: $12 (excluding deductible) |
| Dental scaling | $350 | Not covered (Prevention only) | Reimbursed $350 (if within wellness cap) Out-of-pocket: $0 (excluding deductible and within annual Wellness limit) |
| Surgery after accident | $1,500 | Reimbursed $1,350 Out-of-pocket: $150 (excluding deductible) | Reimbursed $1,350 Out-of-pocket: $150 (excluding deductible) |
Out-of-pocket: $0 (excluding deductible and within annual Wellness limit)
Out-of-pocket: $0 (excluding deductible and within annual Wellness limit)
Out-of-pocket: $12 (excluding deductible)
Out-of-pocket: $12 (excluding deductible)
Out-of-pocket: $0 (excluding deductible and within annual Wellness limit)
Out-of-pocket: $150 (excluding deductible)
Out-of-pocket: $150 (excluding deductible)
Petco Assistance
The Petco insurance, underwritten by DVM Insurance Agency, focuses primarily on reimbursing veterinary expenses for illness and injury, with a distinct wellness option available only at enrollment.
There is no advance payment service for vet bills, so policyholders must pay upfront and claim later, which can be restrictive in urgent situations.
Flexible payment options exist, but installment fees apply and must be verified on each contract, which may limit their accessibility versus truly interest-free plans.
The claims process is entirely document-based and requires strict adherence to deadlines, but there is no dedicated mobile app for real-time claim management, digital reimbursement, or teleconsultation, leaving digital support limited.
The plan does not provide any emergency vet hotline or access to a partner clinic network, nor does it offer structured international coverage, which can be a disadvantage for pet owners who travel or need rapid assistance.
| Assistance Petco | Disponible ? | Détails |
|---|---|---|
| Advance payment of vet bills | No service like Payvet or direct payment to clinics. Policyholders pay bills upfront and file for reimbursement afterward. | |
| Payment facilities | Payment in installments is possible. However, additional installment fees apply. Details and eligibility depend on the individual contract (Declarations Page). | |
| Mobile app | No dedicated mobile application for insurance management. No App Store/Google Play rating. All claims handled via classic document uploads and mail. | |
| Digital claim processing | Claims must be submitted by sending documentation, not through an online client space or app. All information provided by policyholder by mail or email. | |
| Emergency veterinarian service | No 24/7 hotline, telemedicine, or integrated emergency assistance. Emergency and preventive visits reimbursed only if included and within policy limits. | |
| Vet clinic partner network | No access to a specific partner network. Clients use the vet of their choice but do not benefit from negotiated rates or streamlined procedures. | |
| Overseas coverage | No explicit coverage for veterinary expenses abroad. Contract is US-centric, without mention of temporary or portable coverage abroad. |
Policyholders pay bills upfront and file for reimbursement afterward.
However, additional installment fees apply.
Details and eligibility depend on the individual contract (Declarations Page).
No App Store/Google Play rating.
All claims handled via classic document uploads and mail.
All information provided by policyholder by mail or email.
Emergency and preventive visits reimbursed only if included and within policy limits.
Clients use the vet of their choice but do not benefit from negotiated rates or streamlined procedures.
Contract is US-centric, without mention of temporary or portable coverage abroad.
Customer reviews on Petco
| Review site | Rating and number of reviews |
|---|---|
| Trustpilot | 1.4/5 (1,537 reviews) |
We have analyzed reviews from the site cited above. On the positive side, Petco policyholders mention:
- The wide range of pet-related products and services: a variety of food, medications, grooming, and wellness services offered under one roof is appreciated by a minority of clients.
On the negative side:
- A very low level of customer service: repeated complaints about unhelpful, unresponsive, and inflexible staff and support channels, with difficulties reaching a supervisor or getting a satisfactory follow-up.
- Delivery and order management issues: same-day delivery promises are often not honored, late or missing deliveries, unfulfilled in-store pickup advantages, and poor communication regarding order status.
- Product quality and hygiene concerns: items reportedly arrive damaged or expired, and the cleanliness of self-service bathing facilities and grooming stations is described as inadequate or even a risk for pets.
- Unsatisfactory grooming and veterinary experiences: lack of respect for grooming instructions, reports of harmful or traumatic incidents involving pets during services, arbitrary cancellation of appointments, and no solution provided in case of dissatisfaction.
- Strict and rigid return and refund policies: returns are only allowed within 60 days regardless of circumstances, even in exceptional cases such as the pet's death, and refunds are often refused.
- Problems with subscription and billing management: complaints about unauthorized charges, missing order tracking, and alleged instances of fraud leading to official disputes.
- Serious animal welfare concerns: accusations of mistreatment during grooming services and allegations regarding suppliers involved in animal testing.
- General preference for competitors: customers recommend alternative pet supply and insurance providers as more reliable and accommodating than Petco.
How to contact Petco?
| Petco customer service | Details |
|---|---|
| To get a quote or subscribe online | You can use the HelloSafe best pet insurance comparator, choose the plan that suits you, and click to get a quote. |
| To request and track a reimbursement |
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| To obtain an insurance certificate |
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| To contact assistance |
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| To cancel my contract |
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- Submit a reimbursement claim within 90 days after the first treatment.
- Prepare and attach the required documents: detailed receipts, payment proofs, veterinary file.
- Send your file:
• By mail: DVM Insurance Agency – 1800 E. Imperial Highway, Suite 145, Brea, CA 92821
• By phone: 1-800-540-2016 or 1-714-989-0555 - The reimbursement will be made by the method agreed in the contract, average time: a few weeks after processing.
- Request your certificate by phone from Petco/DVM Insurance Agency customer service at 1-800-540-2016 or 1-714-989-0555.
- Indicate your contract number and the insured pet's identity.
- The certificate will be sent by email or mail according to your choice.
- Assistance available by phone at 1-800-540-2016 or 1-714-989-0555.
- Mailing address: DVM Insurance Agency, 1800 E. Imperial Highway, Suite 145, Brea, CA 92821.
- Check if a specific address or email should be used depending on the nature of your request.
- Cancellation possible at any time by written notice to DVM Insurance Agency (letter or email recommended).
- Mailing address: 1800 E. Imperial Highway, Suite 145, Brea, CA 92821.
- Indicate your contract number, insured's identity, and desired cancellation date.
- Attach a copy of ID if requested.
- Notice: written notification (recommended: at least 30 days).
- Pro-rata refund of amounts paid if cancellation occurs early.
FAQ
Do I have to pay the vet upfront with Petco insurance?
With Petco's pet insurance (administered by DVM Insurance), there is no upfront payment system or direct vet pay feature like Payvet. As a pet owner, you must pay all veterinary bills at the clinic first. Afterward, you submit your claim with detailed receipts and necessary documents to Petco/DVM for reimbursement under your policy terms.
How do I cancel my Petco pet insurance policy?
To cancel your Petco pet insurance, you must send a written cancellation request (email or mail) to the insurer. There is no specific notice period mentioned, but cancellations are processed upon notification, with a prorated refund for unused premiums if cancelled early. No special documents are usually required beyond your written instruction and policy details.
What does Petco pet insurance cover and not cover?
Petco’s policy covers necessary veterinary costs for illnesses, accidents, chronic conditions, prescribed medications, and medical supplies, subject to annual limits, deductible, and your coinsurance. Preventive care (like vaccines, wellness exams, dental cleanings, etc.) is only covered if you added the optional "Wellness" package at enrollment. Pre-existing conditions, elective and cosmetic procedures, grooming, boarding, and non-prescribed treatments are excluded.
Are pre-existing conditions covered under Petco pet insurance?
No, Petco does not cover any pre-existing conditions—these are illnesses or injuries that occurred or showed symptoms in the 12 months before your policy starts or during any policy waiting period. Any such medical issues, including their complications, will not be reimbursed throughout the life of the policy. Check your contract's Declarations Page for specific additional exclusions.
How do I file a claim and what documents are needed?
You must file your claim within 90 days after the first treatment. Required documents include detailed veterinary invoices, payment receipts, and medical records relating to the treated condition. Submit these through Petco/DVM’s claim portal or per their instructions. Ensure all information is accurate and complete to avoid delays or rejection of your reimbursement.
Do I have to pay the vet upfront with Petco insurance?
With Petco's pet insurance (administered by DVM Insurance), there is no upfront payment system or direct vet pay feature like Payvet. As a pet owner, you must pay all veterinary bills at the clinic first. Afterward, you submit your claim with detailed receipts and necessary documents to Petco/DVM for reimbursement under your policy terms.
How do I cancel my Petco pet insurance policy?
To cancel your Petco pet insurance, you must send a written cancellation request (email or mail) to the insurer. There is no specific notice period mentioned, but cancellations are processed upon notification, with a prorated refund for unused premiums if cancelled early. No special documents are usually required beyond your written instruction and policy details.
What does Petco pet insurance cover and not cover?
Petco’s policy covers necessary veterinary costs for illnesses, accidents, chronic conditions, prescribed medications, and medical supplies, subject to annual limits, deductible, and your coinsurance. Preventive care (like vaccines, wellness exams, dental cleanings, etc.) is only covered if you added the optional "Wellness" package at enrollment. Pre-existing conditions, elective and cosmetic procedures, grooming, boarding, and non-prescribed treatments are excluded.
Are pre-existing conditions covered under Petco pet insurance?
No, Petco does not cover any pre-existing conditions—these are illnesses or injuries that occurred or showed symptoms in the 12 months before your policy starts or during any policy waiting period. Any such medical issues, including their complications, will not be reimbursed throughout the life of the policy. Check your contract's Declarations Page for specific additional exclusions.
How do I file a claim and what documents are needed?
You must file your claim within 90 days after the first treatment. Required documents include detailed veterinary invoices, payment receipts, and medical records relating to the treated condition. Submit these through Petco/DVM’s claim portal or per their instructions. Ensure all information is accurate and complete to avoid delays or rejection of your reimbursement.
