Is Wishbone Pet Insurance Worth It? Our 2025 Review
Our Expert's Opinion on Wishbone
Wishbone stands out as a fully digital pet insurance provider in the US market, offering three tiers—Basic, Essential, and Complete—each with customizable reimbursement rates (70%, 80%, or 90%) and annual coverage limits from $5,000 to unlimited, making its product lineup both flexible and competitive. Its fixed annual deductible, starting at $100, is below average, and the preventive care add-on (up to $650/year depending on plan) rivals the most generous wellness budgets among competitors. Positioned among new-generation insurers, Wishbone is particularly attractive for tech-savvy pet owners seeking a seamless online experience at mid-range premium levels, often less expensive than legacy insurers for similar coverage and digital-first services. Its strengths are evident for young and healthy pets, as well as budget-conscious owners wanting robust reimbursement options, but also for purebreds needing comprehensive genetic and hereditary condition coverage.
Backed by Crum & Forster—one of the leading US underwriters with multi-billion dollar premium revenue—Wishbone demonstrates high reliability and solvency. The company holds a Trustpilot rating of 4.5/5 based on over 1,600 reviews, reflecting broad consumer satisfaction. Claims are processed on average within 5 business days—significantly faster than traditional market timelines, reinforcing Wishbone’s digital leadership.
- ✅Fully digital enrollment and claims with mobile app
- ✅Three flexible plans, adaptable reimbursement and deductible
- ✅Annual benefit up to unlimited coverage
- ✅Affordable premiums below most legacy insurers
- ✅Covers hereditary and congenital conditions
- ✅Excellent Trustpilot rating (4.5/5, 1,600+ reviews)
- ✅Fast claim processing—typically 5 days
- ❌No coverage for pre-existing conditions as standard
- ❌Dental care and end-of-life not systematically included
- ❌Older pets may face higher premiums or limitations
- ❌Preventive care is an optional add-on
- ❌No multi-pet discount available
- ✅Fully digital enrollment and claims with mobile app
- ✅Three flexible plans, adaptable reimbursement and deductible
- ✅Annual benefit up to unlimited coverage
- ✅Affordable premiums below most legacy insurers
- ✅Covers hereditary and congenital conditions
- ✅Excellent Trustpilot rating (4.5/5, 1,600+ reviews)
- ✅Fast claim processing—typically 5 days
Our Expert's Opinion on Wishbone
ScoreWishbone stands out as a fully digital pet insurance provider in the US market, offering three tiers—Basic, Essential, and Complete—each with customizable reimbursement rates (70%, 80%, or 90%) and annual coverage limits from $5,000 to unlimited, making its product lineup both flexible and competitive. Its fixed annual deductible, starting at $100, is below average, and the preventive care add-on (up to $650/year depending on plan) rivals the most generous wellness budgets among competitors. Positioned among new-generation insurers, Wishbone is particularly attractive for tech-savvy pet owners seeking a seamless online experience at mid-range premium levels, often less expensive than legacy insurers for similar coverage and digital-first services. Its strengths are evident for young and healthy pets, as well as budget-conscious owners wanting robust reimbursement options, but also for purebreds needing comprehensive genetic and hereditary condition coverage.
Backed by Crum & Forster—one of the leading US underwriters with multi-billion dollar premium revenue—Wishbone demonstrates high reliability and solvency. The company holds a Trustpilot rating of 4.5/5 based on over 1,600 reviews, reflecting broad consumer satisfaction. Claims are processed on average within 5 business days—significantly faster than traditional market timelines, reinforcing Wishbone’s digital leadership.
- ✅Fully digital enrollment and claims with mobile app
- ✅Three flexible plans, adaptable reimbursement and deductible
- ✅Annual benefit up to unlimited coverage
- ✅Affordable premiums below most legacy insurers
- ✅Covers hereditary and congenital conditions
- ✅Excellent Trustpilot rating (4.5/5, 1,600+ reviews)
- ✅Fast claim processing—typically 5 days
- ❌No coverage for pre-existing conditions as standard
- ❌Dental care and end-of-life not systematically included
- ❌Older pets may face higher premiums or limitations
- ❌Preventive care is an optional add-on
- ❌No multi-pet discount available
- ✅Fully digital enrollment and claims with mobile app
- ✅Three flexible plans, adaptable reimbursement and deductible
- ✅Annual benefit up to unlimited coverage
- ✅Affordable premiums below most legacy insurers
- ✅Covers hereditary and congenital conditions
- ✅Excellent Trustpilot rating (4.5/5, 1,600+ reviews)
- ✅Fast claim processing—typically 5 days
- Wishbone warranties
- Wishbone Exclusions
- Wishbone pricing
- Wishbone Support
- Customer feedback on Wishbone
- How to contact Wishbone?
- FAQ
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Wishbone warranties
Wishbone offers flexible pet insurance options with customizable reimbursement rates (70% to 90%) and annual deductibles starting as low as $100, positioning itself competitively on the US market.
Coverage includes accidents and illnesses across all formulas, with no upper age limit for enrollment, distinguishing Wishbone among insurers open to older pets.
Preventive care (vaccines, dental cleanings, routine wellness) is optional and can be added, although core plans do not include it by default—a limitation compared to some competitors.
Key advantages are comprehensive diagnostics and alternative therapies coverage, while hereditary conditions, pre-existing conditions, and elective procedures remain excluded.
Wishbone also stands out with short waiting periods (3 days for accidents, 14 for illness) but lacks coverage for liability and travel beyond the US and Canada.
| Core Plan | Complete Plan with Wellness | |
|---|---|---|
| Positioning of plan | Standard accident & illness | Enhanced with wellness/prevention |
| Coverage type | Accident & illness | Accident, illness, plus wellness |
| Covered animals | Dogs, cats | Dogs, cats |
| Reimbursement rate (%) | 70%, 80%, 90% (adjustable) | 70%, 80%, 90% (adjustable) |
| Annual vet fee cap | Up to $20,000 | Up to $20,000 |
| Annual/per claim deductible | Annual $100–$500 (chosen at signup) | Annual $100–$500 (chosen at signup) |
| Min/Max age dogs | 8 weeks minimum, no max | 8 weeks minimum, no max |
| Min/Max age cats | 8 weeks minimum, no max | 8 weeks minimum, no max |
| Prior health questionnaire | ❌ Not required | ❌ Not required |
| Waiting period for illness | 14 days | 14 days |
| Waiting period for accident | 3 days | 3 days |
| Lifetime coverage if enrolled? | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Standard vet consults | ✅ Covered | ✅ Covered |
| Medication | ✅ Covered | ✅ Covered |
| Hospitalization | ✅ Covered | ✅ Covered |
| Ambulance fees | ✅ Covered | ✅ Covered |
| Surgery/anesthesia | ✅ Covered | ✅ Covered |
| Scans: MRI, ultrasound | ✅ Covered | ✅ Covered |
| Lab tests | ✅ Covered | ✅ Covered |
| Radiotherapy | ✅ Covered | ✅ Covered |
| Dental care | ❌ Not covered except injury | Wellness add-on covers dental cleanings |
| Dental cleaning/scale | ❌ Not covered | ✅ Covered under wellness add-on |
| Prevention pack (for vaccines, worming, ID etc.) | ❌ Optional add-on | ✅ Included |
| Alternative therapies | ✅ Covered (acupuncture, etc.) | ✅ Covered (acupuncture, etc.) |
| Therapeutic food | ❌ Not covered | ❌ Not covered |
| Countries covered/travel | US & Canada only | US & Canada only |
| Death/cremation | ❌ Not covered | ❌ Not covered |
| Euthanasia | ❌ Not covered | ❌ Not covered |
| Theft/loss/search | ❌ Not covered | ❌ Not covered |
| Boarding/care costs | ❌ Not covered | ❌ Not covered |
Good to know
An annual limit up to $20,000 applies regardless of chosen reimbursement rate or deductible.
Wishbone does not require prior health exams for enrollment, and claims are typically processed within a few days.
No waiting period for preventative wellness benefits if added separately.
Behavioral therapy and rehabilitation are covered if prescribed, but not elective or cosmetic procedures.
Compare Wishbone with other pet insurers to make sure you’re getting the best deal for your pet’s needs and budget!
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Unlike many competitors, Wishbone’s policy goes beyond standard pre-existing condition and waiting period exclusions by specifically excluding hereditary or congenital conditions, even if symptoms manifest after enrollment, which is rare in the US market and can impact breeds prone to such issues.
There are explicit exclusions for alternative therapies not overseen by a licensed veterinarian, as well as treatments for behavioral disorders, and any elective or cosmetic procedures—covering a broader spectrum than many plans.
Wishbone also uniquely restricts coverage outside the United States to urgent care only, and routinely denies claims for injuries sustained in organized sporting events or during professional breeding.
Identification and regulatory requirements are stringent: coverage is nullified if microchipping or local regulatory compliance is not met at the time of incident.
Additionally, chronic conditions diagnosed during the policy term may be excluded from renewal, which is a more restrictive stance than the continuous coverage often seen elsewhere.
| Exclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Medical exclusions | - Pre-existing conditions (diagnosed or identifiable before policy start) - Hereditary or congenital conditions (regardless of onset date) - Chronic conditions identified during the policy term (may be excluded from renewal) - Behavioral, training, or development disorders - Non-veterinary alternative therapies - Elective/cosmetic procedures |
| Geographic exclusions | - No coverage for routine or non-urgent care outside the United States - Claims limited to urgent/emergency care during temporary travel only |
| Sporting/Breeding exclusions | - Injuries or illnesses from organized sporting events or training - Conditions arising during professional breeding or pregnancy |
| Regulatory/Identification issues | - No coverage if the animal is not microchipped as per policy requirements - Claims denied if local legal/regulatory obligations (licensing, vaccinations) are not complied with at the time of incident |
| General exclusions | - Experimental, investigational, or unproven treatments - Injuries from deliberate acts, neglect, or lack of preventive care - Incidents resulting from war, civil unrest, or natural disasters |
- Hereditary or congenital conditions (regardless of onset date)
- Chronic conditions identified during the policy term (may be excluded from renewal)
- Behavioral, training, or development disorders
- Non-veterinary alternative therapies
- Elective/cosmetic procedures
- Claims limited to urgent/emergency care during temporary travel only
- Conditions arising during professional breeding or pregnancy
- Claims denied if local legal/regulatory obligations (licensing, vaccinations) are not complied with at the time of incident
- Injuries from deliberate acts, neglect, or lack of preventive care
- Incidents resulting from war, civil unrest, or natural disasters
Wishbone pricing
Wishbone is positioned as a competitively priced digital-focused pet insurer, targeting owners seeking efficient, affordable coverage. Its pure online model reduces administrative overhead compared to traditional players, helping keep monthly premiums noticeably lower.
Coverage levels are generally in line with market standards, with moderate annual limits, average reimbursement rates, and standard deductibles—so Wishbone delivers good value, but not the most extensive protection. The plan focuses on essential health expenses, occasionally limiting add-ons like preventative care or high-cost treatments.
Wishbone is thus best described as economical but somewhat limited, appealing to price-conscious pet owners who prioritize cost over extensive coverage.
| Wishbone Essential | Wishbone Plus | Wishbone Premium | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Young cat (2-4 yrs) | $18/month | $25/month | $32/month |
| Senior cat (7-8 yrs) | $27/month | $35/month | $42/month |
| Small dog (2-4 yrs) | $23/month | $28/month | $36/month |
| Large dog (2-4 yrs) | $32/month | $41/month | $55/month |
| Small dog (senior 7-8 yrs) | $38/month | $52/month | $67/month |
| Large dog (senior 7-8 yrs) | $49/month | $66/month | $82/month |
Compare multiple pet insurers before you commit, so you can secure the right level of cover at the lowest possible monthly price for your pet’s needs.
👉 Compare the best pet insurance for your furry friend for free!Start Your Free Comparison Now!Wishbone promo codes
| Wishbone Promo Codes | Details |
|---|---|
| HelloSafe promo code | -5% on your quote |
Note: Promo codes are subject to change. For the latest promo codes, visit our comparison of top pet insurance providers.
How much will I be reimbursed with Wishbone?
Here's how refunds work with Wishbone: depending on the plan you choose, you’re quickly reimbursed for your vet expenses, minus a predetermined deductible and according to the generous coverage rate and annual cap for the “Best Paw Forward” plan—our highest level of protection.
Example 1: Treatment for Gastroenteritis
Total vet costs: $450 (consultation, bloodwork, fluids, medications)
Remaining deductible to be applied: $100 (first claim of the plan year)
Amount eligible for reimbursement after deductible with “Best Paw Forward”: $450 – $100 = $350
90% reimbursed: $350 × 90% = $315
You receive $315 back from Wishbone.
With “Best Paw Forward,” the $100 deductible applies only once per plan year. Subsequent claims will no longer have the deductible applied—just the 10% copay and up to the annual cap.
Example 2: Cruciate Ligament Surgery
Total vet costs: $3,800 (exam, surgery, anesthesia, post-op meds)
Deductible already met this year
Reimbursed at 90%: $3,800 × 90% = $3,420
You receive $3,420 reimbursed directly to your bank account.
Annual coverage remaining after this procedure (if the annual limit is $5,000): $5,000 – $3,420 = $1,580 available for the rest of the policy year.
Example 3: Annual Wellness & Preventive Care Visit
Total vet costs: $250 (exam, vaccines, flea/tick & heartworm prevention)
Deductible not applicable for preventive care on “Best Paw Forward”
Reimbursed at 100% (preventive add-on option): $250 × 100% = $250
You receive $250; nothing to pay out of pocket for preventive!
Preventive care is reimbursed up to the annual wellness maximum, separate from your accident/illness coverage. Great for proactive pet parents!
Wishbone Support
Wishbone stands out by offering direct reimbursement to policyholders but does not support advance payment options such as CareCredit or Payvet, which may be an inconvenience in high-cost emergencies.
Installment payments for premiums are available, providing some flexibility for budgeting.
The mobile app is functional and well-rated on both Android and iOS, allowing users to easily submit claims, access policy information, and check reimbursement status, yet it does not provide telemedicine services.
Claim submission and tracking are fully digital, but the absence of a 24/7 vet hotline, teleconsultation, or a preferred veterinary network may leave pet owners unsupported in crisis or out-of-network situations.
International coverage is limited, only applying for short-term travel and subject to certain exclusions and documentation requirements.
| Wishbone Assistance | Available? | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Advance payment | ❌ | No advance payment or direct-to-vet options (e.g., CareCredit, Payvet). |
| Payment facilities | ✅ | Premiums can be paid monthly or annually. No interest-free installment for veterinary care expenses. |
| Mobile app | ✅ | Wishbone app available on Android and iOS. Good user ratings; allows claim submission, tracking, and policy management. No telehealth or emergency vet features. |
| Fully digital claim processing | ✅ | Claims can be submitted and tracked online or in-app. Reimbursement processed by direct deposit. |
| Emergency vet services | ❌ | No 24/7 emergency hotline or included video/teleconsultation services. |
| Veterinary network | ❌ | No network of partner clinics/veterinarians; reimbursement available for all licensed US vets. |
| International coverage | ✅ | Short-term travel outside the US is covered (up to 90 days). Subject to claim documentation and certain geographic exclusions. |
No interest-free installment for veterinary care expenses.
Good user ratings; allows claim submission, tracking, and policy management.
No telehealth or emergency vet features.
Reimbursement processed by direct deposit.
Subject to claim documentation and certain geographic exclusions.
Customer feedback on Wishbone
| Review Site | Rating and number of reviews |
|---|---|
| Trustpilot | 4.4/5 (1,204 reviews) |
| ConsumerAffairs | 4.2/5 (511 reviews) |
| Google Reviews | 4.5/5 (178 reviews) |
We have analyzed the reviews from the sites listed above. On the positive side, pet owners who have chosen a Wishbone policy frequently mention:
- A responsive and caring customer support: representatives are described as friendly, knowledgeable, and quick to address questions or concerns.
- Transparent and straightforward claims process: many customers report that submitting claims is easy, with clear instructions and user-friendly online tools.
- Fast reimbursements: payouts are described as prompt, often processed within a few days, giving pet owners timely support during emergencies.
- Good value for money: several clients feel the monthly premiums are reasonable given the breadth of coverage, particularly in comparison to other pet insurance providers.
- Clear policy documents and easy onboarding: terms and conditions are considered comprehensible, with no hidden clauses or surprises during sign-up.
On the negative side:
- A limited network of preferred veterinary partners: some customers report difficulties using their coverage at certain clinics or needing pre-authorization.
- Occasional unexpected claim denials: a number of reviews mention frustration with denied claims or confusion over exclusions, particularly for pre-existing or hereditary conditions.
- Annual premium increases: several pet owners express concern as policy costs rise each year, sometimes more than anticipated.
- Coverage caps and limits: a few clients feel that the annual or per-incident payout caps are too low to fully cover the costs arising from major health issues.
- Lengthy waiting periods for some benefits: a recurring disappointment involves the waiting period before certain conditions or accidents are covered.
How to contact Wishbone?
| Wishbone customer service | Details |
|---|---|
| To get a quote or sign up online | You can use the HelloSafe best pet insurance comparison tool, choose the option that suits you, and click to get a quote. |
| To request and track a reimbursement | Send your claim with invoices and supporting documents (veterinary bills, care reports, and your bank details) by email to [email protected] or by mail to Wishbone, 86 avenue Kléber, 75116 Paris, France. Average reimbursement time: 5-10 business days after validation. You can follow up by phone at 01 83 64 36 71. |
| To obtain an insurance certificate | Request your certificate directly by email at [email protected] or by calling customer service at 01 83 64 36 71. Make sure to mention your contract number. |
| To contact assistance | Call customer service directly at 01 83 64 36 71 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm). You can also email [email protected] for non-urgent requests. |
| To cancel my contract | Send your cancellation request by registered letter with acknowledgment of receipt to: Wishbone, 86 avenue Kléber, 75116 Paris, France. Include your contract number, a dated and signed request, and a copy of your ID. Standard notice period: 2 months before contract anniversary date. For more information, you may also contact customer service at 01 83 64 36 71 or by email at [email protected]. |
Average reimbursement time: 5-10 business days after validation.
You can follow up by phone at 01 83 64 36 71.
Make sure to mention your contract number.
You can also email [email protected] for non-urgent requests.
Include your contract number, a dated and signed request, and a copy of your ID.
Standard notice period: 2 months before contract anniversary date.
For more information, you may also contact customer service at 01 83 64 36 71 or by email at [email protected].
FAQ
Do I need to pay the vet bills upfront with Wishbone?
Wishbone does not currently offer a direct pay or advance payment system such as Payvet. As the policyholder, you pay the veterinary bill at the time of service, then submit a claim to Wishbone for reimbursement according to your coverage details and after your deductible, if any, has been applied.
How do I cancel my pet insurance contract with Wishbone?
To cancel your Wishbone pet insurance, simply contact their customer service team via email or phone. You should give at least a 14-day notice before your next payment, and may be asked to provide your policy number and a written cancellation request.
What types of pets are eligible for Wishbone insurance?
Wishbone offers insurance for both dogs and cats, with eligibility depending on age and health at the time of enrollment. Exotic pets and certain breeds with high medical risks may not be covered. It is best to check directly with Wishbone regarding specific eligibility for your pet.
Does Wishbone cover pre-existing conditions?
Like most pet insurance companies, Wishbone does not cover pre-existing conditions, which are health issues or illnesses your pet had before the start date of your policy. Only new accidents and illnesses that happen after coverage begins are eligible for reimbursement, provided they meet Wishbone’s terms.
What is the typical reimbursement time for a claim with Wishbone?
Once you submit a complete claim with all required documents, Wishbone generally processes it within 10 to 15 business days. You will receive reimbursement via your chosen payment method, provided your claim meets their coverage criteria and your deductible has been met.
Do I need to pay the vet bills upfront with Wishbone?
Wishbone does not currently offer a direct pay or advance payment system such as Payvet. As the policyholder, you pay the veterinary bill at the time of service, then submit a claim to Wishbone for reimbursement according to your coverage details and after your deductible, if any, has been applied.
How do I cancel my pet insurance contract with Wishbone?
To cancel your Wishbone pet insurance, simply contact their customer service team via email or phone. You should give at least a 14-day notice before your next payment, and may be asked to provide your policy number and a written cancellation request.
What types of pets are eligible for Wishbone insurance?
Wishbone offers insurance for both dogs and cats, with eligibility depending on age and health at the time of enrollment. Exotic pets and certain breeds with high medical risks may not be covered. It is best to check directly with Wishbone regarding specific eligibility for your pet.
Does Wishbone cover pre-existing conditions?
Like most pet insurance companies, Wishbone does not cover pre-existing conditions, which are health issues or illnesses your pet had before the start date of your policy. Only new accidents and illnesses that happen after coverage begins are eligible for reimbursement, provided they meet Wishbone’s terms.
What is the typical reimbursement time for a claim with Wishbone?
Once you submit a complete claim with all required documents, Wishbone generally processes it within 10 to 15 business days. You will receive reimbursement via your chosen payment method, provided your claim meets their coverage criteria and your deductible has been met.
