What is the ASPCA?

ASPCA Pet Health Insurance is an animal insurance program for your pet from a partner of the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). Plans are underwritten and managed by PTZ Insurance Agency, Ltd., an insurer with over 20 years of experience and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB).

The ASPCA receives a royalty through this relationship, so choosing this insurer supports the ASPCA financially, even though policies are managed and operated through a third-party insurer. Coverage is available for dogs, cat, and horses, with flexible cost and benefit options to optimize your budget and needs.

ASPCA pet insurance products

ASPCA Pet Health Insurance features plans for most dogs and cats. You can quickly get rates for your pet after entering basic information, notably the breed, gender, and age of your pet, plus your email address and ZIP code.

When choosing a plan, you can pick an annual plan limit, reimbursement rate, and annual deductible. The ASPCA Pet Health Insurance Complete Coverage plan includes accidents, dental disease, illness, behavioral issues, hereditary conditions, and other specifically covered situations and care. Pre-existing conditions, breeding costs, cosmetic procedures, and preventative care are all excluded from coverage.

Key features of ASPCA pet insurance

For many pet parents, an unexpected illness or major accident can be an expensive problem. While giving your furry friend the best possible care is essential, pet medical treatments often cost hundreds or thousands of dollars. That can make getting your pet the best medical care a major financial decision.

Coverage

Illnesses and accidents are generally covered unless related to a pre-existing condition. Most other medically necessary care is covered, excluding preventative care. ASPCA pet insurance does not cover healthy pet exams, vaccines, and other health screenings.

Customizable rates and limits

You can customize your plan limits and features to find a cost that suits your budget. Annual limits range from $3,000 to $10,000, reimbursement rates range from 70% to 90%, and deductible options are $100, $250, or $500. Accident-only coverage is also available at a lower cost, with the same options for limits and deductibles.

Online reputation

With over 4,000 reviews on Trustpilot, the insurance carrier earns a 4.2-star average rating. Positive reviews discuss quick claim payments and easy-to-understand policies. Unhappy customers complain about claim denials and poor customer service interactions.

ASPCA pros and cons

ASPCA Pet Health Insurance is generally well-rated. However, it may not be a good fit for all pet parents. Here are some benefits and drawbacks to know about.

Pros

• Flexible plans: Choose your own limit, reimbursement rate, and deductible to find a rate that works for you.
• Multiple pet discount: Get 10% off for multiple pets, offering major savings for large pet families.
• Up to 90% reimbursement rate: Get up to 90% of eligible pet costs reimbursed with the highest-level policy.

Cons

• Preventative care not covered: Unlike human health insurance through a marketplace or large employer, preventative care, annual healthy pet checkups, and vaccines are not covered. Additional preventative care costs around $10 or $25 per month, depending on your chosen benefit package.
• Pre-existing conditions exclusion: Pre-existing conditions are specifically excluded. A condition must be considered cured and symptom-free for 180 days. Knee and ligament issues are excluded for life if they occur before the end of a waiting period for a new plan.
• Can be expensive: While the lower coverage levels make ASPCA pet insurance very affordable, higher coverage limits can be expensive.

Who Is ASPCA pet insurance best for?

ASPCA pet insurance is best for pet parents looking to protect themselves from unexpected pet medical care costs. No pet insurance plan is perfect for everyone, and some people with enough savings may choose to go without pet insurance coverage.

While exclusions won’t cover care you reasonably know your pet will need, insurance coverage lessens the financial burden of healthcare surprises. Primary coverage categories include:

• Accidents: Examples include injuries, bite wounds, broken bones, lodged foreign objects, and toxic ingestions.
• Illnesses: When your dog or cat is sick, most illnesses, including cancer, arthritis, allergies, hypothyroidism, digestive problems, and urinary tract infections, are covered.
• Hereditary conditions: This coverage includes birth defects and congenital problems such as heart disease, eye disorders, and hip dysplasia.
• Behavioral issues: This coverage includes vet visits for anxiety-related problems, compulsive behaviors, and destructive behaviors at home.

How to get an ASPCA pet insurance policy

Signing up for pet insurance from ASPCA Pet Health Insurance is a quick and easy online process. Here’s what you need to do to get started:

1. Start a free quote: Enter your email address, ZIP code, and your pet’s basic information.
2. Choose your coverage limits: Pick your annual limit, reimbursement level, and annual deductible to find your monthly insurance cost per pet.
3. Pay for your plan: Complete the payment form to begin your waiting period before coverage begins.

If you want coverage for preventative care, it’s an additional cost of around $10 to $25 per month, depending on which plan you choose. The $9.95 per month Basic package includes up to $250 in annual benefits for dental cleanings, wellness exams, deworming, vaccines, and heartworm tests. The $24.95 Prime plan includes up to $450 in annual coverage and additional preventive care needs.

Nationwide Pet Insurance vs. ASPCA

Nationwide Pet Insurance is a pet coverage product from the mega insurer Nationwide. Nationwide Pet Insurance plans start at $35, depending on the age, breed, and other details. Dog and cat owners are eligible for a 5% multi-pet discount.

Nationwide Pet plans are less flexible and come with a set deductible, limits, and benefits per condition. Pet owners can choose between a Major Medical plan and a Major Medical with Wellness plan. As a top insurer with strong financial strength ratings and a good overall reputation, it’s worth comparing your rates at the two companies to find the best for your unique needs.