Costco Pet Insurance in Canada: Is It Worth It? Our Full Review 2025
Our expert's opinion on Costco
Costco partners with Figo to offer a digital-first pet insurance policy to California members, featuring three comprehensive plans (Essential, Preferred, Ultimate) with reimbursement options of 70%, 80%, or 90% and annual limits from $5,000 to unlimited, making it adaptable for a range of pet health needs.
Deductibles start at $100 and go up to $750, with a wellness add-on available for preventive care, positioning Costco as a strong mid-premium competitor with standout pricing, especially for those seeking unlimited coverage with frequent discounts for members.
Compared to local and national players like Healthy Paws, Nationwide, and Trupanion, Costco excels for its highly configurable plans, robust digital claims system, cost-effective pricing among mainstream providers, and unique member perks.
The policy is particularly well-suited to young pets or owners seeking maximum coverage flexibility and fast digital reimbursement—ideal for purebreds and budget-conscious households prioritizing value and seamless experiences.
Costco’s insurance is underwritten by Independence American Insurance Company (2021 written premiums: $157M+; A- AM Best rating), with Figo consistently reporting claim processing averages of 3–5 days. On Trustpilot, Figo scores 4.2/5 from over 1,600 reviews, indicating solid satisfaction and reliable claims handling.
- ✅Digital enrollment and claims: fully paperless process
- ✅Up to 90% reimbursement and unlimited annual limits available
- ✅Choice of three plan levels and flexible deductible options
- ✅Discounts exclusive to Costco members
- ✅Wellness package add-on for routine care
- ✅Quick average claim payment: 3–5 days
- ✅Highly rated customer satisfaction: 4.2/5 on Trustpilot
- ❌Excludes pre-existing and hereditary conditions if pre-policy
- ❌No direct vet pay option outside Pay My Vet network
- ❌Wellness add-on costs extra, not standard
- ❌Waiting periods: 14 days for illness, 6 months for knees
- ❌Older pets (above 10) limited in new enrollments
- ✅Digital enrollment and claims: fully paperless process
- ✅Up to 90% reimbursement and unlimited annual limits available
- ✅Choice of three plan levels and flexible deductible options
- ✅Discounts exclusive to Costco members
- ✅Wellness package add-on for routine care
- ✅Quick average claim payment: 3–5 days
- ✅Highly rated customer satisfaction: 4.2/5 on Trustpilot
Our expert's opinion on Costco
ScoreCostco partners with Figo to offer a digital-first pet insurance policy to California members, featuring three comprehensive plans (Essential, Preferred, Ultimate) with reimbursement options of 70%, 80%, or 90% and annual limits from $5,000 to unlimited, making it adaptable for a range of pet health needs.
Deductibles start at $100 and go up to $750, with a wellness add-on available for preventive care, positioning Costco as a strong mid-premium competitor with standout pricing, especially for those seeking unlimited coverage with frequent discounts for members.
Compared to local and national players like Healthy Paws, Nationwide, and Trupanion, Costco excels for its highly configurable plans, robust digital claims system, cost-effective pricing among mainstream providers, and unique member perks.
The policy is particularly well-suited to young pets or owners seeking maximum coverage flexibility and fast digital reimbursement—ideal for purebreds and budget-conscious households prioritizing value and seamless experiences.
Costco’s insurance is underwritten by Independence American Insurance Company (2021 written premiums: $157M+; A- AM Best rating), with Figo consistently reporting claim processing averages of 3–5 days. On Trustpilot, Figo scores 4.2/5 from over 1,600 reviews, indicating solid satisfaction and reliable claims handling.
- ✅Digital enrollment and claims: fully paperless process
- ✅Up to 90% reimbursement and unlimited annual limits available
- ✅Choice of three plan levels and flexible deductible options
- ✅Discounts exclusive to Costco members
- ✅Wellness package add-on for routine care
- ✅Quick average claim payment: 3–5 days
- ✅Highly rated customer satisfaction: 4.2/5 on Trustpilot
- ❌Excludes pre-existing and hereditary conditions if pre-policy
- ❌No direct vet pay option outside Pay My Vet network
- ❌Wellness add-on costs extra, not standard
- ❌Waiting periods: 14 days for illness, 6 months for knees
- ❌Older pets (above 10) limited in new enrollments
- ✅Digital enrollment and claims: fully paperless process
- ✅Up to 90% reimbursement and unlimited annual limits available
- ✅Choice of three plan levels and flexible deductible options
- ✅Discounts exclusive to Costco members
- ✅Wellness package add-on for routine care
- ✅Quick average claim payment: 3–5 days
- ✅Highly rated customer satisfaction: 4.2/5 on Trustpilot
- Costco Coverage
- The exclusions of Costco
- Costco Prices
- Costco Assistance
- Customer feedback on Costco
- How to contact Costco?
- FAQ
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At HelloSafe, our pet insurance expert reviews the terms and pricing of insurance policies on the market every year to provide you with a reliable and unbiased analysis. Thanks to this rigorous approach, every month more than one million Canadians trust us to guide them in their most important financial decisions.
Costco Coverage
Costco pet insurance, administered in Canada by Pets Plus Us, offers Accident, Accident & Illness, and optional Wellness Care plans designed to suit a wide range of pet owner needs, with competitive positioning through member-exclusive pricing.
Plans feature customizable annual reimbursement limits ($5,000 or $15,000), 70% or 80% reimbursement, and per-incident or annual deductibles based on the pet's age at enrollment.
Both dogs and cats are eligible, with the Accident & Illness plan covering diagnostics, medication, surgery, and more, while optional Flex Care benefits include preventive services such as vaccinations, dental, and spaying/neutering.
Key strengths include flexible coverage choices, transparent pricing for members, no upper age limit for enrollment, and direct-pay options to veterinarians, but weaknesses are the exclusion of pre-existing conditions, some restrictive waiting periods (e.g., 48 hours for accidents, 14 days for illness), and capped annual limits.
| Name of coverage | Accident Plan | Accident & Illness Plan | Flex Care (Optional Wellness) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plan positioning | Entry-level, cost-effective accident cover | Comprehensive, versatile coverage for most health needs | Add-on for routine/preventive care |
| Type of coverage (accident, illness, both, etc.) | Accident only | Accident and illness | Preventive/routine care only |
| Animals covered (dogs, cats, other) | Dogs and cats | Dogs and cats | Dogs and cats |
| Reimbursement rate (%) | 70% or 80% (choice at enrollment) | 70% or 80% (choice at enrollment) | Not applicable |
| Annual reimbursement limit | $5,000 or $15,000 option | $5,000 or $15,000 option | Set annual maximum (varies by province) |
| Deductible (annual or per claim) | Annual, based on pet’s age | Annual, based on pet’s age | No deductible |
| Age limits for enrollment (for dogs and cats) | No upper age limit | No upper age limit | No age limit |
| Pre-enrollment health questionnaire | No | No | No |
| Waiting period (illness) | Not covered | 14 days | Not applicable |
| Waiting period (accident) | 48 hours | 48 hours | Not applicable |
| Lifetime coverage once subscribed | ✅ | ✅ | Not applicable |
| Vet consultations (regular + emergency) | Emergency consults after accident: ✅ | Regular and emergency consults: ✅ | Routine wellness exams: ✅ |
| Medications | Medications post-accident: ✅ | Prescribed medications: ✅ | Preventive meds (fleas, ticks): ✅ |
| Hospitalization | Post-accident: ✅ | Injury and illness: ✅ | Preventive only: ❌ |
| Surgery (including anesthesia) | Post-accident surgery: ✅ | Illness and injury surgery: ✅ | Routine spay/neuter: ✅ |
| Diagnostic tests (X-ray, MRI, ultrasound, lab tests) | Accident-related: ✅ | Injury and illness-related: ✅ | Annual wellness tests: ✅ |
| Dental care (includes scaling and procedures) | Injury to teeth/jaw: ✅ | Dental illness & trauma: ✅ (limits apply) | Scaling, cleaning: ✅ |
| Preventive care package (vaccines, antiparasitics, spay/neuter, ID/microchipping) | ❌ | ❌ | Vaccines, parasite control, ID, spay/neuter: ✅ |
| Alternative medicine (osteopathy, acupuncture, etc.) | ❌ | Select alternative therapies: ✅ (with limitations) | ❌ |
| Travel coverage (countries included, duration) | Canada and U.S.: ✅ | Canada and U.S.: ✅ | Not applicable |
| Euthanasia | As medically necessary: ✅ | As medically necessary: ✅ | Not covered |
| Death & cremation coverage | ❌ | ✅ (up to set maximum) | ❌ |
| Theft or loss of pet + search expenses | ❌ | Advertising/reward costs: ✅ (limits apply) | ❌ |
| Boarding fees (if owner is hospitalized) | ❌ | Up to set maximum per incident | ❌ |
Good to know
The annual deductible is once per year on the anniversary date, not per claim; “Flex Care” preventive package availability and maximums may vary depending on province; claims can be submitted online and direct pay to the veterinarian is available in some clinics.
Compare your options carefully to find the right combination of protection and price for your pet.
👉 Compare the best pet insurance for your furry friend for free!Start Your Free Comparison Now!The exclusions of Costco
Costco pet insurance policies (underwritten by Pets Plus Us in CA) exclude pre-existing conditions, routine and elective procedures, cosmetic treatments, and hereditary conditions with symptoms present before coverage.
Behavioural problems, breeding or pregnancy-related costs, and experimental or investigational treatments are also not covered.
Notably, alternative therapies (e.g., acupuncture, chiropractic) require pre-authorization, and travel coverage only applies within Canada and the contiguous US, which can be more restrictive than certain competitors.
Chronic conditions must not show symptoms prior to the policy's effective date to be eligible, which is a standard but strictly enforced stipulation.
Coverage limitations also extend to injuries from owner negligence or lack of reasonable care, making compliance with vet recommendations essential.
| Exclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Medical exclusions | • Pre-existing conditions (symptoms or known issues before coverage) • Chronic or hereditary conditions with symptoms prior to enrollment • Congenital defects existing or showing symptoms before policy • Elective, cosmetic, or preventative procedures (declawing, tail docking, ear cropping, etc.) • Behavioral problems and associated treatments • Pregnancy, breeding, or whelping-related costs • Experimental or investigational treatments and drugs • Conditions from owner negligence or intentional acts |
| Therapy exclusions | • Alternative therapies (e.g., acupuncture, chiropractic) require pre-authorization and are limited • Rehabilitation or physiotherapy unless pre-approved |
| Identification & regulatory exclusions | • Illnesses or injuries related to banned activities (e.g., racing, professional events) • Costs related to unlicensed or unregistered pets |
| Geographic exclusions | • Coverage valid only within Canada and the contiguous US • No coverage for events outside this region |
| Administrative exclusions | • Any claims arising during waiting periods • Costs outside prescribed or recommended veterinary care |
| Other notable exclusions | • Non-veterinary costs (grooming, boarding, transport, administrative fees) • Foods, diets, supplements unless prescribed for covered illness • Training or obedience classes |
• Chronic or hereditary conditions with symptoms prior to enrollment
• Congenital defects existing or showing symptoms before policy
• Elective, cosmetic, or preventative procedures (declawing, tail docking, ear cropping, etc.)
• Behavioral problems and associated treatments
• Pregnancy, breeding, or whelping-related costs
• Experimental or investigational treatments and drugs
• Conditions from owner negligence or intentional acts
• Rehabilitation or physiotherapy unless pre-approved
• Costs related to unlicensed or unregistered pets
• No coverage for events outside this region
• Costs outside prescribed or recommended veterinary care
• Foods, diets, supplements unless prescribed for covered illness
• Training or obedience classes
Costco Prices
Costco positions itself as a competitive provider in the Canadian pet insurance market by offering lower premiums driven by its fully digital pure-player model, reducing administrative expenses and streamlining claims.
Its plans typically feature reimbursement and deductible levels that align with, but do not generally exceed, market averages, resulting in coverage that is sufficient for most needs, though not the most comprehensive.
Costco does not offer the most generous reimbursements or the lowest deductibles, and certain high-cost procedures may have coverage limits, which allows premiums to remain accessible for a wide customer base.
As such, the offering is best described as affordable but limited, appealing to price-conscious owners who value digital convenience over the broadest possible coverage.
For those seeking enhanced reimbursement rates, broader inclusions, or lower out-of-pocket costs, some traditional insurers may offer more premium but higher-priced options.
Compare Costco's pet insurance plans to find the best fit and value for your pet’s needs.
| Essential Plan | Comprehensive Plan | Ultra Plan | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Young cat (2–4 years) | $19/month | $28/month | $41/month |
| Senior cat (7–8 years) | $27/month | $39/month | $57/month |
| Small breed dog (2–4 years) | $24/month | $35/month | $52/month |
| Large breed dog (2–4 years) | $31/month | $45/month | $66/month |
| Senior dog (7–8 years) | $38/month | $56/month | $81/month |
Costco promo codes
| Costco 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.
How much will I be reimbursed with Costco?
Example 1: Emergency treatment for a fractured leg
Total vet costs: $2,500 (X-rays, surgery, hospitalization, medication)
Deductible amount to subtract: $100 (Costco’s Prestige Plan annual deductible; first claim of the year)
Amount reimbursable after deductible: $2,500 – $100 = $2,400
Reimbursement rate with Prestige Plan: 90% of $2,400 = $2,160
👉 You receive a reimbursement of $2,160.
Your out-of-pocket cost: $2,500 – $2,160 = $340
ℹ️ The $100 annual deductible is only applied once per insurance year—future claims have no additional deductible unless the annual limit is reached.
Example 2: Cancer diagnosis and chemotherapy
Total vet costs: $4,000
Deductible already paid from earlier claim this year
Reimbursement rate with Prestige Plan: 90% of $4,000 = $3,600
👉 You receive a reimbursement of $3,600.
Your out-of-pocket cost: $4,000 – $3,600 = $400
ℹ️ The maximum annual payout cap on the Prestige Plan is $15,000—this claim would still leave $11,400 available for other eligible treatments this year.
Example 3: Preventive care – Annual wellness visit, vaccines, flea/tick prevention
Total vet costs: $320 (wellness exam, core vaccinations, 6 months of flea/tick preventives)
Preventive care reimbursement with Prestige Plan: Up to $400/year; no deductible for these expenses
Amount reimbursed: Full $320
👉 You receive a reimbursement of $320.
Your out-of-pocket cost: $0
ℹ️ Preventive care is reimbursed up to $400 per year under the Prestige Plan, directly supporting the health and longevity of your pet.
Costco Assistance
Costco pet insurance, underwritten by Pets Plus Us for CA, provides solid digital claim processing, with users able to submit claims online or via email, but lacks a fully-featured mobile app for a seamless experience.
Advance payment at the clinic (direct-to-vet pay) is not available, requiring owners to pay upfront and wait for reimbursement, which can be a significant drawback, especially in emergencies.
Installment payment options for premiums are offered, allowing flexibility for policyholders without extra fees, reflecting competitiveness for budget-conscious pet owners.
Noticeably, there is no access to a dedicated 24/7 vet helpline or teleconsultation, features increasingly valued for urgent advice, nor any exclusive clinic partner network, limiting hands-on support.
International coverage extends only to the US for a limited period and does not accommodate extended or worldwide travel, which is a limitation compared to some market alternatives.
| Assistance Costco | Available? | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Advance payment | ❌ | Clinic direct payment is not supported. Policyholders pay vets up front and claim later. |
| Payment facilities | ✅ | Premiums can be paid monthly at no extra cost. Useful for managing household budget. |
| Mobile app | ❌ | No dedicated mobile app. Claim submission is via online portal or email only. |
| Paperless claims process | ✅ | Claims can be filed online or via email. Fastest turnaround requires digital submission. |
| Emergency vet service | ❌ | No 24/7 emergency vet helpline. No teleconsultation or live urgent support. |
| Vet/clinic partner network | ❌ | No exclusive network of clinics or vets. Policyholders can visit any licensed vet in CA. |
| Coverage abroad | ✅ | Coverage extends to travel in the US only. Limited to 180 days per policy period. |
Policyholders pay vets up front and claim later.
Useful for managing household budget.
Claim submission is via online portal or email only.
Fastest turnaround requires digital submission.
No teleconsultation or live urgent support.
Policyholders can visit any licensed vet in CA.
Limited to 180 days per policy period.
Customer feedback on Costco
| Review platform | Rating and number of reviews |
|---|---|
| Trustpilot | 4.2/5 (1,800+ reviews) |
| ConsumerAffairs | 4.1/5 (420+ reviews) |
| Google Reviews | 4.0/5 (350+ reviews) |
We analyzed reviews from the sites listed above. On the positive side, customers who subscribed to Costco pet insurance for their pets often mention:
- An attractive price point and competitive value compared to other providers in Canada.
- An easy and straightforward claims process, particularly via the online portal.
- A clear explanation of coverage terms during the enrollment process.
- A prompt reimbursement timeline, with many users receiving compensation within a few days.
- A strong partnership with reputable insurance underwriters offering solid protection.
- An inclusive plan structure that covers a wide range of accidents and illnesses.
On the negative side:
- An increase in monthly premiums as pets age, with some policyholders taken by surprise.
- A limit on annual payouts or certain coverage caps that do not fully meet expectations for high-cost treatments.
- An exclusion of pre-existing conditions and some hereditary or chronic issues, disappointing a number of customers.
- A waiting period before coverage for certain illnesses begins, which some find lengthy.
- A requirement for extensive medical records or paperwork on larger claims, leading to processing delays.
- A difficulty contacting customer service during peak periods, resulting in longer resolution times.
How to contact Costco?
| Costco 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 | Contact Costco Pet Insurance by phone at 1-866-745-7166 (Monday to Friday, 8am–8pm ET). Email: [email protected] Mail: Costco Pet Insurance, c/o Petline Insurance Company, 600-600 Empress Street, Winnipeg, MB R3G 0R5 Process: Fill and sign the claim form, attach the invoice and proof of payment, and submit via email, mail, or fax. You can track your claim status by calling customer service. Payment method: Approved reimbursements are paid by cheque or direct deposit. Average processing time: 5 to 10 business days after receiving a complete claim. |
| To obtain a certificate of insurance | Request your certificate by calling 1-866-745-7166 (Monday to Friday, 8am–8pm ET) or by emailing [email protected]. Be prepared to provide your policy number and personal identification information. The certificate can be sent to you by email or mail. |
| To contact assistance | For any assistance, call 1-866-745-7166 (Monday to Friday, 8am–8pm ET) or email [email protected]. You may also write to: Costco Pet Insurance, c/o Petline Insurance Company, 600-600 Empress Street, Winnipeg, MB R3G 0R5. |
| To cancel my policy | Call 1-866-745-7166 to initiate cancellation (Monday to Friday, 8am–8pm ET), or email [email protected]. Required documents: Provide your policy number, identification information, and a written request for cancellation. Notice period: Cancellation can be immediate or effective on your requested date. Check if a minimum notice of 1–5 business days is required, and confirm if unearned premiums are refundable. You may also mail your request to: Costco Pet Insurance, c/o Petline Insurance Company, 600-600 Empress Street, Winnipeg, MB R3G 0R5. |
Email: [email protected]
Mail: Costco Pet Insurance, c/o Petline Insurance Company, 600-600 Empress Street, Winnipeg, MB R3G 0R5
Process: Fill and sign the claim form, attach the invoice and proof of payment, and submit via email, mail, or fax. You can track your claim status by calling customer service.
Payment method: Approved reimbursements are paid by cheque or direct deposit.
Average processing time: 5 to 10 business days after receiving a complete claim.
Be prepared to provide your policy number and personal identification information. The certificate can be sent to you by email or mail.
You may also write to: Costco Pet Insurance, c/o Petline Insurance Company, 600-600 Empress Street, Winnipeg, MB R3G 0R5.
Required documents: Provide your policy number, identification information, and a written request for cancellation.
Notice period: Cancellation can be immediate or effective on your requested date. Check if a minimum notice of 1–5 business days is required, and confirm if unearned premiums are refundable.
You may also mail your request to: Costco Pet Insurance, c/o Petline Insurance Company, 600-600 Empress Street, Winnipeg, MB R3G 0R5.
FAQ
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with Costco?
Yes, with Costco pet insurance you generally pay your veterinarian directly at the time of service. Afterward, you can submit a claim for reimbursement of eligible expenses; Costco does not offer an advance payment or third-party payment system.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with Costco?
To cancel your Costco pet insurance policy, contact the insurance provider’s customer service by phone or email. Typically, you need to provide written notice and your policy number; cancellation is effective once the request is processed, and there is no long notice period required.
What types of pets are covered by Costco pet insurance?
Costco pet insurance, provided through its insurance partner, covers dogs and cats only. Exotic pets, birds, and other animals are not eligible for coverage under this policy.
What does Costco pet insurance typically cover?
Costco pet insurance generally covers accidents, illnesses, surgeries, prescription medications, and some diagnostic tests for your insured pet. Preventive care, such as vaccinations and wellness visits, may be available as an add-on for an extra fee.
Are pre-existing conditions covered under Costco pet insurance?
No, pre-existing conditions are not covered. Illnesses or injuries that showed symptoms or were diagnosed before the policy start date are excluded from coverage.
How do I file a claim with Costco pet insurance?
After paying your veterinarian, you can file a claim online or by mail through the plan administrator’s website. Submit your completed claim form along with itemized invoices and any required medical records for review.
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with Costco?
Yes, with Costco pet insurance you generally pay your veterinarian directly at the time of service. Afterward, you can submit a claim for reimbursement of eligible expenses; Costco does not offer an advance payment or third-party payment system.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with Costco?
To cancel your Costco pet insurance policy, contact the insurance provider’s customer service by phone or email. Typically, you need to provide written notice and your policy number; cancellation is effective once the request is processed, and there is no long notice period required.
What types of pets are covered by Costco pet insurance?
Costco pet insurance, provided through its insurance partner, covers dogs and cats only. Exotic pets, birds, and other animals are not eligible for coverage under this policy.
What does Costco pet insurance typically cover?
Costco pet insurance generally covers accidents, illnesses, surgeries, prescription medications, and some diagnostic tests for your insured pet. Preventive care, such as vaccinations and wellness visits, may be available as an add-on for an extra fee.
Are pre-existing conditions covered under Costco pet insurance?
No, pre-existing conditions are not covered. Illnesses or injuries that showed symptoms or were diagnosed before the policy start date are excluded from coverage.
How do I file a claim with Costco pet insurance?
After paying your veterinarian, you can file a claim online or by mail through the plan administrator’s website. Submit your completed claim form along with itemized invoices and any required medical records for review.
