Is PetPartners Pet Insurance Worth It? Review 2025
Our Expert's Opinion on PetPartners
PetPartners, underwritten by Independence American Insurance Company, is a recognized player on the US pet insurance market, offering highly customizable plans for cats and dogs through its CompanionCare product and a range of à la carte options. The contract stands out for flexibility: pet owners can select accident-only or accident and illness coverage, define deductibles, annual and per-incident limits, and add Wellness, Hereditary, Breeder, Alternative or Exam coverage, as well as end-of-life support. Customizable preventive care (Defender, DefenderPlus) is offered as an add-on, covering annual check-ups, select vaccines, and dental cleaning with annual limits. The reimbursement rates and caps depend on the tailored choices detailed on each Declarations Page. Financially, Independence American Insurance Company backs the policies with steady presence but detailed premium volume is not public; PetPartners itself remains a niche player compared to national leaders. On price, PetPartners positions itself mid-market for basic coverage, rising to the upper range when options are added. According to Trustpilot, PetPartners holds an average 2.9/5 (14 reviews), with praise for knowledgeable customer support and digital management via the TailTrax app, but also recent complaints about tightening of illness coverage for older pets and premium hikes after claims. Reimbursements are described as prompt, often within a week for straightforward claims. PetPartners is most suited to young or middle-aged animals, especially those needing tailored limits and options, and to owners seeking modular digital-first management, but is less suitable for older pets or those requiring illness coverage over age 9.
- ✅Highly customizable coverage and deductible options
- ✅Optional preventive, hereditary, behavioral and breeding coverages
- ✅Covers pre-existing conditions after one year continuous coverage
- ✅Digital account management and handy TailTrax app
- ✅24/7 vet helpline for members
- ✅Fast reimbursement, sometimes within a week
- ✅Select add-ons for dental and wellness
- ❌Illness coverage not available for pets over age 9
- ❌No illness coverage if dog enrolled after age 5
- ❌Premiums can increase after claims
- ❌Numerous exclusions unless specific add-ons purchased
- ❌Below-average Trustpilot rating, few total reviews
- ✅Highly customizable coverage and deductible options
- ✅Optional preventive, hereditary, behavioral and breeding coverages
- ✅Covers pre-existing conditions after one year continuous coverage
- ✅Digital account management and handy TailTrax app
- ✅24/7 vet helpline for members
- ✅Fast reimbursement, sometimes within a week
- ✅Select add-ons for dental and wellness
Our Expert's Opinion on PetPartners
Score- ✅Highly customizable coverage and deductible options
- ✅Optional preventive, hereditary, behavioral and breeding coverages
- ✅Covers pre-existing conditions after one year continuous coverage
- ✅Digital account management and handy TailTrax app
- ✅24/7 vet helpline for members
- ✅Fast reimbursement, sometimes within a week
- ✅Select add-ons for dental and wellness
- ❌Illness coverage not available for pets over age 9
- ❌No illness coverage if dog enrolled after age 5
- ❌Premiums can increase after claims
- ❌Numerous exclusions unless specific add-ons purchased
- ❌Below-average Trustpilot rating, few total reviews
- ✅Highly customizable coverage and deductible options
- ✅Optional preventive, hereditary, behavioral and breeding coverages
- ✅Covers pre-existing conditions after one year continuous coverage
- ✅Digital account management and handy TailTrax app
- ✅24/7 vet helpline for members
- ✅Fast reimbursement, sometimes within a week
- ✅Select add-ons for dental and wellness
- PetPartners Warranties
- PetPartners Exclusions
- PetPartners Rates
- PetPartners Assistance
- Customer feedback on PetPartners
- How can I contact PetPartners?
- FAQ
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PetPartners Warranties
PetPartners offers a modular insurance solution, with CompanionCare as a customizable core policy covering accident and illness (including diagnostics, surgery, hospitalization, medication, and more) for dogs and cats, subject to annual and per-incident limits, deductible, and coinsurance chosen by the subscriber.
Notably, PetPartners allows flexible add-ons: wellness (Defender, DefenderPlus), hereditary/congenital disease (HereditaryPlus), alternative therapies/behavioral care (AlternativePlus), breeder-specific risks, exam fee coverage (ExamPlus), and end-of-life expenses (SupportPlus), with detailed per-item caps on preventive benefits.
The policy stands out for its rare openness to cover pre-existing conditions after 12 months of continuous insurance, full reimbursement for select hereditary risks (with add-on), and clear options for preventive care—enabling tailored protection.
However, important limitations exist: illness coverage is restricted or denied for pets enrolled after a certain age (especially dogs after age 5 and all pets from age 9+), and base plans strictly exclude wellness, dental, and exam fees unless an option is added—plus coverage for dental and hereditary risks is limited unless specific riders are purchased.
Overall, PetPartners excels in flexibility and prevention customization, but clients must carefully select add-ons for full coverage and be aware of age and exclusion rules that may apply depending on the pet's entry age and medical history.
| Guarantee Name | CompanionCare (Base) / All Add-Ons via Options |
|---|---|
| Positioning of plan | ''À la carte'' core (Accident & Illness) + customizable add-ons |
| Type of Coverage | Accident & illness basic; accident-only available; add-ons for wellness/hereditary/behavioral/exam/end-of-life |
| Animals covered | Dogs and cats individually named on policy |
| Reimbursement rate (%) | Chosen by policyholder (typically 70%, 80%, or 90%) |
| Annual reimbursement limit for vet fees | Selected by customer ($2,500 to unlimited); add-ons have own annual caps |
| Deductible (annual / per incident) | Chosen by customer; deductible applies annually unless stated otherwise |
| Min & max age to enroll – Dogs | Minimum: NC; Illness exclusion if enrolled after age 5; no illness coverage after 9 |
| Min & max age to enroll – Cats | Minimum: NC; max age 9, illness coverage likely restricted for late entry |
| Prerequisite health questionnaire? | NC (often required at signup for pre-existing risk assessment) |
| Waiting period for illness | 14 days (except IVDD/hereditary: 30–180 days); see full policy |
| Waiting period for accident | 2 days (excluding cruciate ligament: 180 days) |
| Lifetime coverage if enrolled? | ✅ If continuous; coverage may end on ownership change |
| Vet consultations (standard, ER, specialist) | ❌ Base; ✅ with ExamPlus add-on |
| Medication | ✅ Covered prescription medications |
| Hospitalization | ✅ Included in basic coverage |
| Ambulance fees | ✅ Emergency terrestrial ambulance only |
| Surgery, anesthesia | ✅ Included in base |
| Imaging: scans, MRI, ultrasound | ✅ Covered within annual/incident limit |
| Laboratory testing | ✅ Covered |
| Radiotherapy | ✅ If medically indicated |
| Dental treatment | ❌ Except tooth extraction post-accident (base); cleaning $150 with DefenderPlus |
| Dental scaling/descaling | ❌ Except with DefenderPlus add-on ($150/year) |
| Prevention benefit (amount & scope) | ❌ Base; Defender: up to $255/yr, DefenderPlus: up to $415/yr (vaccines, wormers, exam, chip, limited dental/sterylization) |
| Alternative medicine/rehab (osteopathy, acupuncture, etc.) | ❌ Base; ✅ with AlternativePlus (after 30 days; $1,000/y for behavioral) |
| Medical food | ❌ Unless prescribed & sole therapy, then ✅ |
| Territories covered / travel | U.S., U.S. territories, possessions, and Canada |
| Death/cremation expenses | ❌ Base; ✅ with SupportPlus (up to $300/animal/event) |
| Euthanasia | ✅ Medically necessary euthanasia included |
| Theft/loss/search costs | ❌ Not covered |
| Boarding fees | ❌ Not covered |
Good to know
- No coverage of illness risks if a dog is enrolled after age 5, or if any pet is enrolled from age 9+; pre-existing conditions may be covered only after 12 months of continuous insurance.
- Most preventive and dental treatments, behavioral/alternative therapies, hereditary/congenital risks, and exam fees are strictly excluded unless the relevant add-on is selected.
- For each option (wellness, hereditary, breeder, etc.), specific itemized maximums per year apply and are not pooled; unused annual budget does not carry over to the next year.
- Annual deductible, reimbursement percentage, and limits are all chosen by the client at signup, creating highly variable out-of-pocket exposure.
Start by comparing offers to ensure you select the best priced plan and customizations for your needs.
👉 Compare the best pet insurance for your furry friend for free!Start Your Free Comparison Now!PetPartners Exclusions
PetPartners features classic medical exclusions such as pre-existing conditions, elective procedures, and non-prescribed treatments, but a few critical differences set it apart from major competitors. Notably, bilateral conditions—like cruciate ligament rupture on one side—exclude coverage for the same issue on the opposite limb, even if symptoms arise much later. Coverage is automatically terminated when pet ownership changes, which is more restrictive than most US pet insurers.
Congenital and hereditary diseases (e.g., dysplasia, luxation, diabetes) are categorically excluded unless you purchase the HereditaryPlus rider, and end-of-life costs are only covered with SupportPlus. Preventive care (vaccines, parasite control, spaying/neutering, dental cleanings) is not included in standard coverage and often requires separate optional riders.
| Exclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Medical exclusions | - Pre-existing conditions (including if symptoms show during the waiting period) - Bilateral conditions: if one side is affected before or during waiting periods, the other side is excluded - Experimental treatments, prosthetics, organ transplantation - Complications from excluded conditions - Elective or aesthetic procedures (cosmetic surgery, grooming, nail trims) - Non-prescribed medications or non-veterinary diets - Obesity treatment unless secondary to a covered disease |
| Dental exclusions | - Dental illnesses or injuries (except extraction of permanent tooth broken in an accident) - Routine dental cleanings and care unless DefenderPlus is selected |
| Preventive care exclusions | - Vaccinations, routine testing, parasite control, wellness exams—all only available with Defender/DefenderPlus |
| Hereditary/congenital | - All congenital/hereditary diseases (e.g., hip/elbow dysplasia, luxation, OCD, diabetes) excluded unless HereditaryPlus rider is added - Even with this option, conditions showing symptoms during waiting periods remain excluded |
| Reproductive exclusions | - All breeding, pregnancy, whelping, and related complications excluded unless Breeder Coverage is selected - Elective C-sections, artificial insemination, non-urgent or preventive reproductive procedures always excluded |
| Behavioral/alternative therapy exclusions | - Behavioral issues, alternative or complementary therapies excluded unless AlternativePlus is added (and then with a 30-day waiting period and annual cap) |
| End-of-life costs | - Euthanasia covered only if medically indicated; necropsy, cremation, urn, and related costs always excluded unless SupportPlus is selected |
| Administrative/financial | - Administrative fees, medical waste disposal, postage, taxes - Prepaid, scheduled, or unrealized treatments |
| Geographical | - Only services provided within the USA, US territories, possessions, and Canada are eligible - No coverage for events outside these regions |
| Identification/ownership | - Coverage ceases permanently if the animal changes ownership (non-transferable) |
| Legal/natural disaster | - Death, injury, or illness caused by war, riots, nuclear incidents, major catastrophes, or participation in professional/competition risk activities are excluded |
| Other | - Treatment for conditions resulting from owner’s neglect or preventable events - Claims for conditions recurring from high-risk activities already resulting in an insured event are excluded |
- Bilateral conditions: if one side is affected before or during waiting periods, the other side is excluded
- Experimental treatments, prosthetics, organ transplantation
- Complications from excluded conditions
- Elective or aesthetic procedures (cosmetic surgery, grooming, nail trims)
- Non-prescribed medications or non-veterinary diets
- Obesity treatment unless secondary to a covered disease
- Routine dental cleanings and care unless DefenderPlus is selected
- Even with this option, conditions showing symptoms during waiting periods remain excluded
- Elective C-sections, artificial insemination, non-urgent or preventive reproductive procedures always excluded
- Prepaid, scheduled, or unrealized treatments
- No coverage for events outside these regions
- Claims for conditions recurring from high-risk activities already resulting in an insured event are excluded
PetPartners Rates
PetPartners adopts a position in the middle of the US pet insurance market spectrum, offering flexible options and a modular approach with add-ons for hereditary, wellness, alternative therapies, and end-of-life expenses. Their digital-first management (online claims, app, 24/7 vet helpline) helps control administrative costs, which is reflected in pricing generally competitive with large, traditional players—especially for young pets and basic accident/illness formulas.
However, the base coverage's per-incident and annual caps, plus significant exclusions for senior pets (notably illness coverage restrictions beyond age 5 or 9), make the protection less comprehensive than some premium, high-limit, low-deductible rivals. Add-on options allow some users to tailor coverage closer to more robust plans, but the final price then aligns with or can slightly exceed the market average for comparable protections.
In summary, PetPartners is best described as holding a balanced, mid-range position: economical (especially digitally), but with limits that should be weighed carefully for older pets or those with hereditary risks.
Compare quotes to ensure you secure the most affordable rate for your pet's age and needs.
| CompanionCare (Base) | CompanionCare + Defender | CompanionCare + DefenderPlus | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Young cat (2–4 years) | $21/month | $28/month | $37/month |
| Older cat (7–8 years) | $32/month | $40/month | $51/month |
| Small dog (2–4 years) | $27/month | $34/month | $44/month |
| Large dog (2–4 years) | $37/month | $45/month | $57/month |
| Senior dog (7–8 years)* | $54/month | $62/month | $78/month |
Informations importantes
*Note: For dogs insured after age 5, illness coverage is not available; pricing reflects accident-only formulas for seniors.
PetPartners promo codes
| PetPartners promo codes | Details |
|---|---|
| HelloSafe promo code | -5% on your quote |
Note: Promo codes are subject to change. For the latest promo codes, please visit our comparison of the best pet insurance plans.
How much will I be reimbursed with PetPartners?
With PetPartners, your eligible vet bills are reimbursed according to the formula and options selected: after you pay your annual deductible, PetPartners covers a high percentage (for example, 90%) of reasonable veterinary costs until you reach your annual limit, drastically lowering your out-of-pocket expenses.
Example 1: Surgery for a Torn ACL Ligament (Dog)
Total vet costs: $2,800 (surgery, hospitalization, medications)
Deductible remaining: $250 (first claim of the year)
Amount eligible for reimbursement after deductible: $2,800 – $250 = $2,550
With the top-tier formula: 90% of $2,550 is reimbursed
$2,550 × 90% = $2,295
You get $2,295 back—your remaining out-of-pocket cost is only $505 instead of $2,800.
The deductible is only paid once per policy year. For subsequent claims that year, the full reimbursement rate applies, up to your annual limit (e.g., $10,000).
Example 2: Hospital Stay for Severe Gastroenteritis (Cat)
Total vet costs: $900 (ER visit, IV fluids, diagnostics, medication)
Deductible remaining: $0 (already paid on a prior claim this year)
Eligible for reimbursement: $900 × 90% = $810
You are reimbursed $810. Your remaining bill is just $90.
Reimbursement applies after your policy annual deductible is met, and is subject to the selected annual maximum. PetPartners pays the covered percentage, you pay the rest.
Example 3: Annual Wellness Package with DefenderPlus Option (Dog)
Wellness care provided: Dental cleaning and core vaccines at annual checkup
- Dental cleaning: $200
- Annual vaccines: $60
- Total: $260
Reimbursement (DefenderPlus wellness option, no deductible/co-pay):
- Dental cleaning: up to $150 reimbursed
- Vaccines: up to $15 per rabies vaccine + $40 per other vaccine (as per schedule)
Result:
Dental: $150 (max under plan)
Vaccines: $55 reimbursed
Total reimbursement: $205
You get $205 back, so your final cost for routine care is only $55.
Wellness reimbursements under DefenderPlus are not subject to deductible or coinsurance. Use your entire annual wellness benefit for routine care—one of the simplest ways to lower annual vet costs!
PetPartners Assistance
PetPartners assistance stands out for offering a 24/7 Vet Helpline, which provides insured pet owners with constant access to licensed veterinary professionals—a vital service for urgent questions. The insurer supports fully digital claim management via the TailTrax mobile app, enabling customers to submit claims and manage documents easily, though user ratings and ergonomics are not market leaders. Unlike some US insurers, PetPartners does not propose advance-of-fees (direct payment to veterinary clinics at time of care); reimbursement is made after claim approval. No owned network of partner veterinary clinics is available, but pets are covered for care with any licensed vet throughout the US, its territories, and Canada. Finally, short-term international coverage outside North America is lacking—a consideration for frequently traveling pet owners.
| Assistance PetPartners | Disponible ? | Détails |
|---|---|---|
| Advance of fees | ❌ | No direct payment system such as Payvet or CareCredit. Owners pay providers up front and are reimbursed after claim approval. |
| Payment facilities | ❌ | No publicly available 0% installment or multi-payment options are offered. Premiums are typically charged monthly or annually. |
| Mobile app | ✅ | TailTrax app available for iOS and Android. Enables claim submission and management of pet health records. User experience average; no sector-leading ratings. |
| Digital reimbursement management | ✅ | Claims can be filed via the app or client portal. Supporting documents uploaded digitally. All reimbursement handled online, no paperwork required. |
| Veterinary emergency service | ✅ | 24/7 Vet Helpline gives round-the-clock access by chat/phone to licensed veterinary staff for urgent advice, but does not cover physical emergency care. |
| Vet/clinic network | ❌ | No preferred or partner veterinarian/clinic network. Policyholders may choose any licensed vet in the US, territories, or Canada. |
| International coverage | ❌ | Animals are insured in the US, its territories, and Canada only. No coverage outside these regions for temporary trips or extended stays. |
Customer feedback on PetPartners
| Review site | Rating and number of reviews |
|---|---|
| Trustpilot | 2.9/5 (14 reviews) |
We have analyzed the reviews from the site listed above. On the positive side, customers who have insured their pets with PetPartners frequently mention:
- An attentive and friendly customer service: the professionalism, patience, and dedication of the support team are often highlighted, with several agents praised by name for their outstanding help.
- Fast and efficient claims processing: reimbursements are commonly described as "pain-free," with some policyholders receiving payouts within a week of filing a claim.
- Useful digital tools and support: the availability of 24/7 veterinary helpline and digital management via the TailTrax app are appreciated for convenience.
- Customizable coverage options: policyholders value being able to tailor their deductible, annual limit, and coverage types to fit their needs.
On the negative side:
- The lack of illness coverage for older pets: PetPartners does not cover illness for dogs enrolled after age 5, and no illness coverage is available for pets 9 years or older, which has disappointed many customers.
- Recent negative changes to policy coverage: stricter terms, inability to increase coverage after the initial sign-up, and reduced flexibility are frequently cited as sources of dissatisfaction.
- Premium increases after claims: some users report that their premiums rose significantly after making use of the insurance.
- Denial of claims for pre-existing conditions and confusion over waiting periods: several negative reviews mention denied claims related to policy start dates and conditions deemed pre-existing.
- Occasional confusion between insurance and unrelated grooming or bathing services: some negative feedback appears to be about experiences not related to PetPartners insurance, reflecting possible misunderstanding of the services offered.
How can I contact PetPartners?
| PetPartners customer service | Details |
|---|---|
| To get a quote or subscribe online | You can use the HelloSafe best pet insurance comparison tool, choose the plan that suits you, and click to get a quote. |
| To request and track a reimbursement | Declare your claim within 180 days of the incident via the online claim form or by mail. Attach all detailed invoices and veterinary documents. You can request direct payment to the veterinarian. Track your case by email at [email protected] or phone at 1-866-774-1113. Reimbursement times are generally within a week after approval. Payment is made to your account or by check, according to your initial choice. Postal address: PetPartners, Inc., PO Box 2150, Buffalo, NY 14240-2150. |
| To obtain a certificate of insurance | Request your proof of insurance directly by email at [email protected] or by phone at 1-866-774-1113. You can print it via your customer area or the TailTrax app if you use it. Mailing address for written requests: PetPartners, Inc., PO Box 2150, Buffalo, NY 14240-2150. |
| To contact assistance | Customer service available by phone at 1-866-774-1113 Monday to Friday (check hours), or by email at [email protected]. A Vet Helpline is available 24/7 by phone or chat for advice on your pet's health. |
| To cancel my contract | Cancellation is possible at any time without justification with a pro-rata refund for the remaining period. Before the first anniversary, a 30-day withdrawal period allows for a full refund if no compensation has been paid. Send your cancellation request by email ([email protected]), by phone (1-866-774-1113), or by mail to PetPartners, Inc., PO Box 2150, Buffalo, NY 14240-2150. Be sure to include: contract number, contact details, a copy of your ID, and a signed request. If cancelling by mail, use registered letter. Processing time is immediate; refund within a few days. |
FAQ
Do I have to pay veterinary fees upfront with PetPartners?
With PetPartners, you generally need to pay your veterinary bills upfront at the clinic. Afterward, you can submit a claim to PetPartners for reimbursement, subject to your chosen deductible, coinsurance, and annual/per-incident limits. In some cases, direct payment to the vet may be possible, but this is not the standard process and should be confirmed in advance with both your vet and the insurer.
How do I cancel my PetPartners pet insurance policy?
You can cancel your PetPartners policy at any time by contacting their customer service by phone, mail, or email. No advance notice period is required; cancellation is effective immediately, and any unused premium is refunded on a pro-rata basis if there has been no claim payment. It’s recommended to provide your policy number and a written cancellation request for fastest processing.
What types of coverage and add-ons does PetPartners offer?
PetPartners provides Accident & Illness and Accident Only plans, with options to add wellness care, hereditary condition coverage, alternative therapies, exam fee coverage, and end-of-life expenses. Each add-on or plan comes with its own limits, waiting periods, and eligibility criteria, so check your Declarations Page or ask for policy details to tailor coverage to your needs.
Are there age restrictions for enrolling my pet or getting illness coverage?
Yes, PetPartners enforces age limits. Illness coverage is generally not available for pets enrolled after age 9, and for dogs insured after age 5, illness coverage may be excluded. If you have an older pet, confirm eligibility and potential limitations before applying to avoid gaps in coverage.
Are pre-existing conditions covered by PetPartners?
Pre-existing conditions are not covered until your pet has been insured for 12 continuous months without interruption. After this period, certain pre-existing illnesses or injuries may become eligible for coverage if symptoms have not reappeared. Always review your policy for specifics and waiting periods applied to pre-existing conditions.
Do I have to pay veterinary fees upfront with PetPartners?
With PetPartners, you generally need to pay your veterinary bills upfront at the clinic. Afterward, you can submit a claim to PetPartners for reimbursement, subject to your chosen deductible, coinsurance, and annual/per-incident limits. In some cases, direct payment to the vet may be possible, but this is not the standard process and should be confirmed in advance with both your vet and the insurer.
How do I cancel my PetPartners pet insurance policy?
You can cancel your PetPartners policy at any time by contacting their customer service by phone, mail, or email. No advance notice period is required; cancellation is effective immediately, and any unused premium is refunded on a pro-rata basis if there has been no claim payment. It’s recommended to provide your policy number and a written cancellation request for fastest processing.
What types of coverage and add-ons does PetPartners offer?
PetPartners provides Accident & Illness and Accident Only plans, with options to add wellness care, hereditary condition coverage, alternative therapies, exam fee coverage, and end-of-life expenses. Each add-on or plan comes with its own limits, waiting periods, and eligibility criteria, so check your Declarations Page or ask for policy details to tailor coverage to your needs.
Are there age restrictions for enrolling my pet or getting illness coverage?
Yes, PetPartners enforces age limits. Illness coverage is generally not available for pets enrolled after age 9, and for dogs insured after age 5, illness coverage may be excluded. If you have an older pet, confirm eligibility and potential limitations before applying to avoid gaps in coverage.
Are pre-existing conditions covered by PetPartners?
Pre-existing conditions are not covered until your pet has been insured for 12 continuous months without interruption. After this period, certain pre-existing illnesses or injuries may become eligible for coverage if symptoms have not reappeared. Always review your policy for specifics and waiting periods applied to pre-existing conditions.
