BCAA Pet Insurance 2025: Comprehensive Review, Benefits & Drawbacks
Our expert's opinion on BCAA
BCAA offers pet insurance in BC through a partnership with Pets Plus Us, providing customizable accident-only and accident & illness plans with adjustable deductibles, reimbursement rates, and annual benefit limits. Positioned in the mid-market alongside Trupanion and Petsecure, BCAA stands out by offering substantial 13.5% member discounts, a strong wellness/tele-vet benefits package, and modest premiums ($35/month for dogs, $20/month for cats average) but is weakened by strict pre-existing exclusions and rising prices as pets age. BCAA best fits owners of young pets seeking flexible coverage and digital management, especially those who are BCAA members wanting competitive pricing with strong virtual vet access. PTZ Insurance Services underwrites these policies and manages over $100M in annual premium volume; however, Pets Plus Us has a low Trustpilot score (2.1/5 from 133 reviews), with mixed feedback on claim speed and digital process — some claims are paid quickly, but delays and denials are common, especially for older pets.
- ✅Highly customizable plan structure
- ✅Strong BCAA member discount (up to 13.5%)
- ✅Digital-first: paperless claims and policy management
- ✅24/7 tele-vet and poison helpline included
- ✅Canada/US-wide coverage for travel with pet
- ✅Behavioural and alt-therapy coverage up to $1,000/year
- ✅Annual reimbursement limits selectable
- ❌Strict pre-existing condition rules and bilateral exclusions
- ❌No true wellness coverage in core plans
- ❌Premiums rise steeply as pets age
- ❌Poor customer reviews (2.1/5, 133 on Trustpilot)
- ❌Sub-limits on prescription food and medical devices
Score- ✅Highly customizable plan structure
- ✅Strong BCAA member discount (up to 13.5%)
- ✅Digital-first: paperless claims and policy management
- ✅24/7 tele-vet and poison helpline included
- ✅Canada/US-wide coverage for travel with pet
- ✅Behavioural and alt-therapy coverage up to $1,000/year
- ✅Annual reimbursement limits selectable
Our expert's opinion on BCAA
- ✅Highly customizable plan structure
- ✅Strong BCAA member discount (up to 13.5%)
- ✅Digital-first: paperless claims and policy management
- ✅24/7 tele-vet and poison helpline included
- ✅Canada/US-wide coverage for travel with pet
- ✅Behavioural and alt-therapy coverage up to $1,000/year
- ✅Annual reimbursement limits selectable
- ❌Strict pre-existing condition rules and bilateral exclusions
- ❌No true wellness coverage in core plans
- ❌Premiums rise steeply as pets age
- ❌Poor customer reviews (2.1/5, 133 on Trustpilot)
- ❌Sub-limits on prescription food and medical devices
Score- ✅Highly customizable plan structure
- ✅Strong BCAA member discount (up to 13.5%)
- ✅Digital-first: paperless claims and policy management
- ✅24/7 tele-vet and poison helpline included
- ✅Canada/US-wide coverage for travel with pet
- ✅Behavioural and alt-therapy coverage up to $1,000/year
- ✅Annual reimbursement limits selectable
Why Trust HelloSafe?
At HelloSafe, our pet insurance experts review the terms and pricing of insurance policies available in the Canadian market every year to provide you with reliable and unbiased analysis. Thanks to this thorough approach, over a million Canadians trust us every month to help guide them in their most important financial decisions.
BCAA Coverages
BCAA Pet Insurance, underwritten by Pets Plus Us, allows for customizable coverage with adjustable annual limits, reimbursement rates, and deductible options to fit a variety of pet-owner profiles.
Plans are available for both accident-only and accident & illness, covering a wide range of treatments including vet visits, surgeries, diagnostic tests, behavioural therapy, and alternative medicine—with emergency and tele-vet support as added value.
A key strength is the inclusion of unique assistance features (“Blue Ribbon Benefits”) like 24/7 PetHelpFone™ and poison control, plus flexible travel coverage in Canada and the US.
However, routine and preventive care, dental disease, and spaying/neutering are excluded from base coverage unless a wellness add-on is purchased, and there are strict exclusions for pre-existing or bilateral conditions.
The plan stands out for its flexibility and digital claim process, although wellness coverage is not standard and hereditary, elective, or preventive expenses remain uncovered without an upgrade.
| Name of coverage | Customizable BCAA Pet Insurance Plan via Pets Plus Us |
|---|---|
| Plan positioning | Customizable: accident-only or accident & illness |
| Type of coverage | Accident-only or Accident & Illness |
| Animals covered | Dogs and cats only |
| Reimbursement rate (%) | 70%, 80%, or 90% (chosen at enrollment) |
| Annual reimbursement limit | $5,000 to Unlimited, selected by policyholder |
| Deductible (annual or per claim) | Annual: $100, $200, $300, $400, $500 (chosen at start) |
| Age limits for enrollment | Dogs and cats: N.C. |
| Pre-enrollment health questionnaire | N.C. |
| Waiting period (illness) | 15 days |
| Waiting period (accident) | 3 days |
| Lifetime coverage once subscribed | ✅ Policy can be renewed for life if terms are respected |
| Vet consultations (regular + emergency) | ✅ |
| Medications | ✅ Prescription drugs for covered conditions |
| Hospitalization | ✅ |
| Surgery (including anesthesia) | ✅ |
| Diagnostic tests (X-ray, MRI, etc.) | ✅ All standard diagnostic imaging & labwork |
| Dental care (scaling/procedures) | ❌ Except accidental dental fracture, not disease |
| Preventive care package | ❌ Optional wellness add-on (FlexCare), not standard |
| Alternative medicine | ✅ Vet-prescribed acupuncture, chiro, physio, laser |
| Travel coverage | ✅ Canada & USA, all licensed vets |
| Civil liability | ❌ |
| Euthanasia | ✅ Up to $1,000 if vet-recommended (covered accident/illness) |
| Death & cremation coverage | ✅ Up to $1,000 for covered event |
| Theft or loss of pet + search expenses | ✅ Up to $1,000 for lost pet ads and reward |
| Boarding fees (if owner hospitalized) | ✅ Up to $1,000/incident (owner stays >48h) |
Important Information Regarding Policy Benefits and Exclusions
Certain benefits such as alternative therapies, behavioural therapy, and tele-vet consults have sub-limits (typically $1,000 per year). Pre-existing conditions, bilateral issues, pregnancy, elective/cosmetic procedures, and routine prevention remain strictly excluded. Tele-vet and poison control lines are available 24/7 for all plans. Discounts are available for BCAA members.
Before enrolling, compare all plan options to find the coverage and rate that best fit your needs and budget.
👉 Compare the best pet insurance for your furry friend for free!Start Your Free Comparison Now!BCAA Exclusions
The BCAA Pet Insurance policy excludes most pre-existing conditions and their symptoms, as well as any bilateral condition where one side was affected prior to coverage, making these exclusions broader than some competitors.
Preventive, routine, and elective care are not covered (unless added via optional wellness plans), so standard exclusions apply to vaccinations, spaying/neutering, parasite prevention, diet food, grooming, and training.
Notably, dental care for disease or maintenance is excluded—only extractions due to accidental fracture of healthy teeth are eligible, a stricter stance than many peer insurers which may cover some disease-related dental. Experimental treatments, non-licensed drugs or procedures, and reproduction or pregnancy-related costs are also excluded, along with issues resulting from risky or professional animal activities.
Owner negligence, not following veterinarian advice, or claims for illnesses contracted outside Canada/USA are systematically excluded, and sub-limits apply to specific categories such as behavioral therapy, medical devices, and prescription foods.
| Exclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Medical exclusions | • Pre-existing conditions and associated/bilateral issues • Diseases or symptoms occurring before enrollment or during waiting • Preventive, routine, and maintenance dental care except accidental tooth fracture • Disease/illness contracted outside Canada/USA • Prescription diet over limits, non-vet prescribed food, obesity/weight loss treatments • Pregnancy, breeding, nursing, and all reproductive care • Cosmetic/elective procedures (tail/ear docking, declaw, sterilization, etc.) |
| Geographic/activity exclusions | • Illnesses contracted outside Canada/USA • Injuries/illnesses from commercial guarding, professional racing, fighting, etc. • Owner negligence, maltreatment, or failure to follow veterinarian advice • Illegal/unlicensed drugs or experimental treatments • Non-therapeutic supplies |
| Coverage/process limitations | • Behavior modification, training, or obedience classes/devices not related to a diagnosed issue • Boarding when not related to owner hospitalization (>48h) • Travel/vacation cancellation unless related to an emergency covered condition • Administrative fees, over-the-limit medications, unlicensed provider costs |
| Benefit sub-limits & conditional | • Behavior therapy, medical devices, and prescription food covered only up to fixed annual limits • Coverage per policy for a single pet only (multiple animals require separate policies) • Digital claims, telehealth, and certain concierge services have annual caps or service restrictions |
• Diseases or symptoms occurring before enrollment or during waiting
• Preventive, routine, and maintenance dental care except accidental tooth fracture
• Disease/illness contracted outside Canada/USA
• Prescription diet over limits, non-vet prescribed food, obesity/weight loss treatments
• Pregnancy, breeding, nursing, and all reproductive care
• Cosmetic/elective procedures (tail/ear docking, declaw, sterilization, etc.)
• Injuries/illnesses from commercial guarding, professional racing, fighting, etc.
• Owner negligence, maltreatment, or failure to follow veterinarian advice
• Illegal/unlicensed drugs or experimental treatments
• Non-therapeutic supplies
• Boarding when not related to owner hospitalization (>48h)
• Travel/vacation cancellation unless related to an emergency covered condition
• Administrative fees, over-the-limit medications, unlicensed provider costs
• Coverage per policy for a single pet only (multiple animals require separate policies)
• Digital claims, telehealth, and certain concierge services have annual caps or service restrictions
BCAA Prices
BCAA sits in the mid-range segment of the Canadian pet insurance market, offering a balance between coverage comprehensiveness and affordability.
Accident & Illness plans include a fairly robust set of benefits, including some alternative and behavioural therapies, with limits and deductibles typical for the sector, while wellness options must be added at extra cost.
BCAA is neither a pure digital player nor a premium insurer, so it maintains moderate administrative costs and leverages member discounts (13.5% off) to remain attractive, especially for BCAA members.
Compared to comprehensive providers with high reimbursement rates and low deductibles, BCAA is more affordable but does not match the top-tier generosity for high-cost or chronic conditions.
This makes BCAA particularly suited to pet owners seeking solid baseline protection without the price tag of the most premium plans.
| Accident Only | Accident & Illness (Base) | Accident & Illness (Enhanced) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Young cat (2–4 years) | $14/month | $22/month | $26/month |
| Senior cat (7–8 years) | $19/month | $28/month | $32/month |
| Small breed dog | $20/month | $35/month | $41/month |
| Small breed dog (2–4 years) | $20/month | $35/month | $41/month |
| Large breed dog (2–4 years) | $28/month | $47/month | $56/month |
| Senior dog (7–8 years) | $42/month | $63/month | $74/month |
Start by comparing estimated monthly premiums for your pet's age and breed to make the best choice.
👉 Compare the best pet insurance for your furry friend for free!Start Your Free Comparison Now!BCAA Promo Codes
| BCAA Promo Codes | Details |
|---|---|
| HelloSafe Promo Code | -5% on your quote |
Note: Promo codes are subject to change. For the latest offers, check our comparison of the best pet insurance providers.
BCAA Reimbursement Amounts
BCAA reimburses a large portion of your eligible vet bills after your deductible is paid, so you pay less out-of-pocket—making premium protection simple and reassuring.
✅ Example 1: Cruciate ligament surgery (dog)
Total vet costs: $2,800 (consultation, surgery, hospitalization, medications)
Annual deductible to subtract: $100 (already met previously this policy year)
80% reimbursement after deductible with the highest-tier Accident & Illness plan: $2,800 × 80% = $2,240
👉 You receive a reimbursement of $2,240.
ℹ️ Only the deductible is subtracted once per policy year; all eligible expenses after that are reimbursed at 80% until the annual benefit limit.
✅ Example 2: Emergency treatment for accidental poisoning (cat)
Total vet costs: $950 (emergency exam, diagnostics, hospitalization, treatment)
Deductible not yet used this year: $100
Eligible reimbursement: $950 – $100 = $850
$850 × 80% = $680 reimbursed
👉 You receive a reimbursement of $680.
ℹ️ The deductible applies only once annually, so future claims in the same year for this pet will not have the deductible deducted again.
✅ Example 3: Dental extraction after accidental tooth fracture (dog)
Total vet costs: $650 (exam, x-rays, extraction, anesthesia, meds)
Deductible already paid earlier in the year
Eligible reimbursement: $650 × 80% = $520
👉 You receive a reimbursement of $520.
ℹ️ Accidental dental fractures are covered with no additional deductible if it’s already been met that policy year. Annual caps for dental care may apply depending on your plan limit.
BCAA Assistance
BCAA stands out for offering a 24/7 tele-vet service (PetHelpFone™) and Pet Poison Helpline®, which provide direct and immediate access to qualified advice in emergencies—a significant advantage over many competitors.
Online and paperless claims management is included through a digital portal, streamlining reimbursements and reducing processing delays for policyholders.
No advance payment solution is provided, so pet owners must pay the full vet bill upfront before seeking reimbursement.
The absence of a dedicated mobile app and partner veterinary network may limit convenience for those accustomed to app-based interactions or seeking preferred clinic pricing.
Coverage extends to both Canada and the US at any licensed veterinarian, supporting flexible travel, but longer stays or overseas trips are not covered.
| Assistance BCAA | Available? | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Advance payment | ❌ | No advance payment solution; full vet invoice must be paid by the owner before reimbursement. |
| Payment facilities | ❌ | No monthly installment facility for claim settlement. Premiums are paid monthly; claims paid out by reimbursement only. |
| Mobile app | ❌ | No dedicated mobile app available for BCAA Pet Insurance; policy management through web portal only. Rating: N.C. |
| Paperless claims process | ✅ | Claims can be submitted and tracked online via the digital portal. Upload documents, check status, and receive communications digitally. |
| Emergency vet service | ✅ | 24/7 tele-vet support (PetHelpFone™) and Pet Poison Helpline® included at no extra cost. |
| Vet/clinic partner network | ❌ | No preferred vet or clinic partner network; you may visit any licensed provider in Canada or the US. |
| Coverage abroad | ✅ | Insured for all eligible conditions with any licensed vet in Canada or the US; not valid beyond North America. |
Customer Reviews of BCAAs
| Review platform | Rating and number of reviews |
|---|---|
| Trustpilot (Pets Plus Us) | 2.1/5 (133 reviews) |
We analyzed reviews from the sites listed above.
On the positive side, customers who subscribed to BCAA Pet Insurance often mention:
- A prompt claim payment process when claims are approved.
- A comprehensive baseline coverage that includes key accident and illness benefits.
- An occasional encounter with helpful, knowledgeable customer representatives.
- An included feature set, such as tele-vet access, is viewed as good value for some users.
On the negative side:
- A noticeable increase in premiums as pets age, sometimes described as excessive.
- A frequent denial of claims for “pre-existing” conditions, even in cases where vets disagreed.
- A slow or inconsistent claims process, with reports of delays or difficult user experience on the portal.
- A lack of clarity or communication issues from customer service when addressing claims or policy changes.
- A dissatisfaction with policy modifications and the cancellation process, with some feeling the offering becomes less favorable over time.
Contact BCAA
| BCAA Customer Service | Details |
|---|---|
| To get a quote or subscribe online | You can use the HelloSafe pet insurance comparison tool, choose the plan that suits you, and click to get a quote. |
| To request and track a reimbursement | Submit your claim online via the Pets Plus Us portal, by email to submissions@petsplusus.com, or by mail to PTZ Insurance Services Ltd., 710 Dorval Drive, Suite 400, Oakville, ON L6K 3V7. Attach the itemized invoice and paid receipts. Reimbursement via direct deposit or cheque, typically within 5-10 business days. |
| To obtain a certificate of insurance | Request via email (info@petsplusus.com), phone (1-800-364-8422), or portal. Provide policy details and your identity. |
| To contact assistance | Access 24/7 via PetHelpFone™ or call 1-800-364-8422 for urgent advice; for poison emergencies, use the Pet Poison Helpline®. Both are included with all BCAA/Pets Plus Us plans. |
| To cancel my policy | Contact 1-800-364-8422, email info@petsplusus.com, or send written notice to PTZ Insurance Services Ltd., 710 Dorval Drive, Suite 400, Oakville, ON L6K 3V7. Provide your policy number and reason for cancellation; a 30-day notice and written request may be required. |
FAQ
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with BCAA?
Yes, you must pay your veterinarian upfront for eligible veterinary services. After payment, you can submit a claim to BCAA (via Pets Plus Us) for reimbursement. Claims require itemized invoices and medical records as needed. Reimbursement is via direct deposit or cheque, typically processed within 5–10 business days.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with BCAA?
To cancel, contact BCAA (Pets Plus Us) by phone, email, or post. Provide your policy number, your pet’s name, and written notice of cancellation. A 30-day notice is generally required. Any unused premium for the period after cancellation will be refunded.
What does BCAA pet insurance cover?
BCAA offers two plans: Accident Only and Accident & Illness. The Accident & Illness plan covers vet consultations, treatments, medications, surgeries, diagnostics, hospitalization, alternative and behavioural therapy, and emergency boarding. Optional wellness (preventive) coverage is available for an extra premium.
Are pre-existing conditions covered?
No, BCAA pet insurance does not cover any pre-existing conditions. This includes any illness or injury that showed symptoms or was diagnosed before your coverage started or during the required waiting periods. Bilateral conditions and related symptoms prior to enrollment are also excluded.
How do I file and track a claim?
You can file a claim online through the Pets Plus Us portal, by email, or by mail. Provide the completed claim form, itemized paid invoice, and your pet’s full medical records if requested. You can track the status online, and reimbursement is typically made within 5–10 business days.
What discounts are available with BCAA pet insurance?
BCAA offers a 13.5% discount for BCAA members and a 9% discount for non-members. There is also a potential multi-pet discount if you insure more than one animal. Discounts are applied automatically during the sign-up process based on your eligibility.
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with BCAA?
Yes, you must pay your veterinarian upfront for eligible veterinary services. After payment, you can submit a claim to BCAA (via Pets Plus Us) for reimbursement. Claims require itemized invoices and medical records as needed. Reimbursement is via direct deposit or cheque, typically processed within 5–10 business days.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with BCAA?
To cancel, contact BCAA (Pets Plus Us) by phone, email, or post. Provide your policy number, your pet’s name, and written notice of cancellation. A 30-day notice is generally required. Any unused premium for the period after cancellation will be refunded.
What does BCAA pet insurance cover?
BCAA offers two plans: Accident Only and Accident & Illness. The Accident & Illness plan covers vet consultations, treatments, medications, surgeries, diagnostics, hospitalization, alternative and behavioural therapy, and emergency boarding. Optional wellness (preventive) coverage is available for an extra premium.
Are pre-existing conditions covered?
No, BCAA pet insurance does not cover any pre-existing conditions. This includes any illness or injury that showed symptoms or was diagnosed before your coverage started or during the required waiting periods. Bilateral conditions and related symptoms prior to enrollment are also excluded.
How do I file and track a claim?
You can file a claim online through the Pets Plus Us portal, by email, or by mail. Provide the completed claim form, itemized paid invoice, and your pet’s full medical records if requested. You can track the status online, and reimbursement is typically made within 5–10 business days.
What discounts are available with BCAA pet insurance?
BCAA offers a 13.5% discount for BCAA members and a 9% discount for non-members. There is also a potential multi-pet discount if you insure more than one animal. Discounts are applied automatically during the sign-up process based on your eligibility.
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