OVMA Pet Insurance 2025: Expert Review of Plans, Benefits & Drawbacks
Our expert's opinion on OVMA
OVMA Pet Health Insurance, underwritten by Petline Insurance Company and endorsed by Ontario veterinarians, offers three tiers—Comprehensive, Extended, and Unlimited+—with annual reimbursement limits from $2,500 to unlimited, and a standard 80% reimbursement rate, subject to possible reductions for frequent or high claims.
Compared to major competitors, OVMA stands out for broad dental and behavioural coverage, flexible deductible choices, and its unlimited option with wellness care, but its prices, especially on the Unlimited+ plan, trend above average, particularly for older pets or those seeking low-deductible options.
OVMA is best suited to owners of young to middle-aged cats and dogs, especially those seeking high dental reimbursements, optional wellness coverage, and transparency regarding deductibles and claims, or with multi-pet households looking for discounts.
Petline Insurance Company insures more than 1.3 million pets in Canada and is recognized for operational reliability; recent third-party review (Forbes Advisor) scores OVMA 4.1/5 based on expert analysis (2024), with most claims processed after payment to the vet; average reimbursement time is not independently published but generally aligns with other established Canadian insurers.
- ✅Veterinarian-backed, broad illness/injury coverage
- ✅Comprehensive dental benefits without exclusions
- ✅Wellness care included on Unlimited+ plan
- ✅Flexible deductible options by age and plan
- ✅Coverage for behavioral and alternative therapies
- ✅Multipet and loyalty discounts available
- ✅Reimbursement for travel, boarding, lost pet outreach
- ❌No direct-to-vet payment option
- ❌Age-driven deductible increases
- ❌Per-accident/illness limits on basic plans
- ❌No 24/7 vet hotline support
- ❌Reimbursement rate can decrease after frequent claims
Score- ✅Veterinarian-backed, broad illness/injury coverage
- ✅Comprehensive dental benefits without exclusions
- ✅Wellness care included on Unlimited+ plan
- ✅Flexible deductible options by age and plan
- ✅Coverage for behavioral and alternative therapies
- ✅Multipet and loyalty discounts available
- ✅Reimbursement for travel, boarding, lost pet outreach
Our expert's opinion on OVMA
- ✅Veterinarian-backed, broad illness/injury coverage
- ✅Comprehensive dental benefits without exclusions
- ✅Wellness care included on Unlimited+ plan
- ✅Flexible deductible options by age and plan
- ✅Coverage for behavioral and alternative therapies
- ✅Multipet and loyalty discounts available
- ✅Reimbursement for travel, boarding, lost pet outreach
- ❌No direct-to-vet payment option
- ❌Age-driven deductible increases
- ❌Per-accident/illness limits on basic plans
- ❌No 24/7 vet hotline support
- ❌Reimbursement rate can decrease after frequent claims
Score- ✅Veterinarian-backed, broad illness/injury coverage
- ✅Comprehensive dental benefits without exclusions
- ✅Wellness care included on Unlimited+ plan
- ✅Flexible deductible options by age and plan
- ✅Coverage for behavioral and alternative therapies
- ✅Multipet and loyalty discounts available
- ✅Reimbursement for travel, boarding, lost pet outreach
Compared to major competitors, OVMA stands out for broad dental and behavioural coverage, flexible deductible choices, and its unlimited option with wellness care, but its prices, especially on the Unlimited+ plan, trend above average, particularly for older pets or those seeking low-deductible options.
OVMA is best suited to owners of young to middle-aged cats and dogs, especially those seeking high dental reimbursements, optional wellness coverage, and transparency regarding deductibles and claims, or with multi-pet households looking for discounts.
Petline Insurance Company insures more than 1.3 million pets in Canada and is recognized for operational reliability; recent third-party review (Forbes Advisor) scores OVMA 4.1/5 based on expert analysis (2024), with most claims processed after payment to the vet; average reimbursement time is not independently published but generally aligns with other established Canadian insurers.
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At HelloSafe, our pet insurance specialists review the terms and pricing of insurance policies available in Canada every year, ensuring you receive reliable and unbiased analysis. Because of this thorough approach, thousands of Canadians trust us each month to help them make some of their most important financial decisions.
OVMA Guarantees
OVMA offers three main pet insurance plans—Comprehensive, Extended, and Unlimited+—all covering both accidents and illnesses with a straightforward 80% reimbursement rate, broad access to Canadian and U.S. vets, and a deductible scaling with pet age.
Unlimited+ uniquely stands out by including a wellness package for preventive care, higher dental limits, and no annual maximums, while Comprehensive and Extended are more budget-friendly but limit coverage per condition.
All OVMA plans include coverage for chronic conditions, alternative therapies, boarding fees if the owner is hospitalized, dental care for any teeth condition, exam fees, and travel within North America.
A clear strength is the inclusion of wide-ranging dental and alternative therapies, but the lack of direct vet payment, 24/7 pet health line, and the use of per-condition limits (except Unlimited+) are notable weaknesses.
Pre-existing conditions, cosmetic procedures, and routine care (unless on Unlimited+) are consistently excluded from all plans.
| Name of coverage | Comprehensive | Extended | Unlimited+ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plan positioning | Standard, basic annual caps | Higher limits, broader coverage caps | Premium, no annual caps, wellness |
| Type of coverage (accident, illness, both, etc.) | Both accidents and illnesses | Both accidents and illnesses | Both accidents and illnesses |
| Animals covered (dogs, cats, other) | Dogs and cats | Dogs and cats | Dogs and cats |
| Reimbursement rate (%) | 80% | 80% | 80% (may reduce to 70/60/50% on review) |
| Annual reimbursement limit | $2,500 per accident, $2,500 per illness | $5,000 per accident, $5,000 per illness | Unlimited |
| Deductible (annual or per claim) | $100/<5y, $300/5-10y, $500/10+y | $100/<5y, $300/5-10y, $500/10+y | $250/<5y, $400/5-10y, $500/10+y |
| Age limits for enrollment (for dogs and cats) | No official age limit; extra tests 8y+ (dogs), 10y+ (cats) | Same as Comprehensive | Same as Comprehensive |
| Pre-enrollment health questionnaire | Extensive medical records and vet exam required | Same as Comprehensive | Same as Comprehensive |
| Waiting period (illness) | 14 days | 14 days | 14 days |
| Waiting period (accident) | 48 hours | 48 hours | 48 hours |
| Lifetime coverage once subscribed | Yes, renewable annually | Yes, renewable annually | Yes, renewable annually |
| Vet consultations (regular + emergency) | ✅ Exam fees, regular and emergency | ✅ Exam fees, regular and emergency | ✅ Exam fees, regular and emergency |
| Medications | ✅ Up to 6 months per new diagnosis | ✅ Up to 6 months per new diagnosis | ✅ Up to 6 months per new diagnosis |
| Hospitalization | ✅ Covered | ✅ Covered | ✅ Covered |
| Surgery (including anesthesia) | ✅ Covered | ✅ Covered | ✅ Covered |
| Diagnostic tests (X-ray, MRI, ultrasound, lab tests) | ✅ Covered | ✅ Covered | ✅ Covered |
| Dental care (includes scaling and procedures) | ✅ $300/yr, all teeth, illness & accident | ✅ $400/yr, all teeth, illness & accident | ✅ $600/yr, all teeth, illness & accident |
| Preventive care package (vaccines, antiparasitics, spaying/neutering, ID/microchipping) | ❌ Not covered | ❌ Not covered | ✅ $450/yr, select preventive care |
| Alternative medicine (osteopathy, acupuncture, etc.) | ✅ With vet referral | ✅ With vet referral | ✅ With vet referral |
| Travel coverage (countries included, duration) | ✅ Canada & U.S. during travel; no time cap | ✅ Canada & U.S. during travel | ✅ Canada & U.S. during travel |
| Civil liability | ❌ Not covered | ❌ Not covered | ❌ Not covered |
| Euthanasia | ✅ Only if due to covered condition | ✅ Only if due to covered condition | ✅ Only if due to covered condition |
| Death & cremation coverage | ✅ Covered for insured events, incl. urn | ✅ Covered for insured events, incl. urn | ✅ Covered for insured events, incl. urn |
| Theft or loss of pet + search expenses | ✅ Lost pet ad & reward, limits apply | ✅ Lost pet ad & reward, limits apply | ✅ Lost pet ad & reward, limits apply |
| Boarding fees (if owner is hospitalized) | ✅ Up to $25/day if owner hospitalized ≥2 days | ✅ Up to $25/day if owner hospitalized ≥2 days | ✅ Up to $25/day if owner hospitalized ≥2 days |
Good to know: Unlimited+ wellness/preventive care covers annual exam, routine bloodwork, vaccines, and select parasiticides. There is a 6-month waiting period for some dental and orthopedic conditions. Maximum eligible reimbursement may be reduced if frequent/high claims are made. Pre-existing conditions and routine care (outside of Unlimited+) are never reimbursed.
Remember to compare the three OVMA plans carefully to find the most affordable solution for your pet’s needs.
👉 Compare the best pet insurance for your furry friend for free!Start Your Free Comparison Now!OVMA Exclusions
Exclusions in OVMA Pet Health Insurance closely align with industry norms, particularly the exclusion of pre-existing conditions (including any sign or symptom prior to or during the waiting period) and routine or elective care not associated with an insured illness or accident.
Noticeably, OVMA excludes prescription and therapeutic diets, cosmetic or maintenance procedures (e.g., nail trims), spay/neuter, as well as expenses arising from pregnancy, breeding, professional/competitive pet use, and congenital conditions visible before start or during the waiting period.
Dental illness is not excluded (unlike many competitors), but preventive dental cleaning is only covered under the Unlimited+ wellness option.
Special limitations also apply for animal age, bilateral conditions, and pets lacking a recent veterinary exam at enrollment, while coverage excludes events stemming from war, nuclear incident, or natural disaster.
These exclusions, especially regarding broad routine care and strict definitions of pre-existing and bilateral conditions, can be more restrictive than in some competing policies.
| Exclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Medical and coverage |
|
| Age/identification |
|
| Use and activity |
|
| Administrative |
|
| Geographic/force majeure |
|
| Special waiting periods |
|
- Pre-existing conditions (any sign/symptom before/during waiting period)
- Congenital conditions visible before start or during waiting
- Bilateral conditions (opposite side if pre-existing)
- Routine, elective, or maintenance care unless Unlimited+ (annual exams, nail trims, grooming, parasite control, dental cleanings)
- Food, including prescription/therapeutic diets
- Spay/neuter, breeding, pregnancy-related care
- Flea control unless included in Unlimited+
- Any treatment or event during waiting for coverage
- Animals <8 weeks at enrollment
- Lack of recent exam, bloodwork or urinalysis for older pets (≥8 years dogs/≥10 years cats) can result in exclusions from findings during early policy period
- Expenses due to competitive/professional pet use without prior approval
- Treatment for injuries sustained during commercial or professional activity
- Any charges above actual expense or policy annual/incident limits
- Coverage co-exists with other animal accident/illness insurance (prorated/refunded)
- Claims resulting from war, nuclear incident, natural disaster, or intentional acts by the owner
- Specific waiting: 6 months for dental/orthopedic conditions (except deciduous teeth: 14 days with approval)
- Any condition or injury occurring during waiting period is permanently excluded
OVMA Prices
OVMA's pet insurance stands in the mid-range segment, offering a balance of comprehensive coverage and price, with 80% reimbursement and flexible deductible choices that are competitive for the Canadian market.
The Comprehensive and Extended plans feature moderate maximums suitable for most common expenses, while the Unlimited+ plan is notably more expensive but adds extensive limits and wellness benefits that can rival premium providers.
Routine care, dental, and wellness are only included at the top tier, aligning OVMA more with mid-priced competitors unless Unlimited+ is chosen, in which case the cost rises steeply.
Age-based deductible escalation keeps premiums affordable for younger pets, but policy costs increase as pets get older.
Overall, OVMA is best for owners seeking trusted, veterinarian-backed plans at a reasonable cost, especially if wellness benefits are an important factor, but is not the cheapest or most limited offer on the market.
Use the table below to compare OVMA’s plans and discover the best value for your pet’s age and needs.
| Comprehensive | Extended | Unlimited+ | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Young cat (2–4 years) | $34–$42/month | $47–$58/month | $85–$120/month |
| Senior cat (7–8 years) | $54–$70/month | $72–$98/month | $155–$185/month |
| Small breed dog (2–4 years) | $45–$56/month | $67–$78/month | $130–$176/month |
| Large breed dog (2–4 years) | $56–$69/month | $88–$116/month | $171–$233/month |
| Senior dog (7–8 years) | $92–$132/month | $145–$206/month | $289–$364/month |
OVMA Promo Codes
| OVMA 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.
OVMA Reimbursement Information
With OVMA’s Unlimited+ plan, reimbursements are easy: after you pay your annual deductible, you get back 80% of eligible vet bills, even for preventive care, making healthcare costs much more manageable for your pet.
✅ Example 1: Hospitalisation + surgery
- Total veterinary cost: $2,700 (consultation, X-rays, surgery, hospitalization, meds)
- Deductible to subtract: $400 (first claim of the year for a dog over 5)
- Reimbursable amount: $2,700 – $400 = $2,300
- 80% of that amount reimbursed: $2,300 × 80% = $1,840
- 👉 You receive a reimbursement of $1,840.
- ℹ️ The annual deductible applies once per policy year. Future claims will be reimbursed at 80% until your annual limit is reached (unlimited for this plan).
✅ Example 2: Full dental cleaning and extractions (cat, age 11)
- Total veterinary cost: $900 (dental exam, cleaning, tooth extraction, anesthesia)
- Deductible already paid this policy year
- Reimbursed at 80%: $900 × 80% = $720
- 👉 You receive $720.
- ℹ️ The Unlimited+ plan covers up to $600 of dental costs per year; the excess ($120) will be your remaining out-of-pocket cost.
✅ Example 3: Preventive care and vaccination
- Total veterinary cost: $280 (wellness exam, core vaccinations, routine bloodwork)
- Deductible does not apply to covered preventive care (Unlimited+ only)
- 80% reimbursed: $280 × 80% = $224
- 👉 You receive $224.
- ℹ️ Preventive and wellness services are covered up to $450 per year under Unlimited+, with no deductible required for these claims.
OVMA Assistance
OVMA assistance offers robust claims support and coverage flexibility through its online claim portal and clear communication channels, but lacks features such as advance payment services that would limit owners’ upfront expenses.
No dedicated mobile app or installment payment options for premiums are available, so most management and reimbursement tasks are conducted online via forms or by email.
There is no 24/7 emergency veterinary teleconsultation or hotline, a gap that may concern owners needing urgent after-hours support.
OVMA does not operate a preferred network of clinics—policyholders can consult any licensed veterinarian in Canada or the USA, giving excellent freedom of provider choice but no negotiated rate benefits.
Global travel coverage is limited to Canada and the USA for temporary stays, which is suitable for most pet owners’ needs but excludes more extended overseas coverage or support.
| Assistance OVMA | Available? | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Advance payment | ❌ | Owners pay vet upfront; no Payvet or similar advance payment arrangement is provided. |
| Payment facilities | ❌ | No mention of premium installment plans or flexible payment schedules (N.C.). |
| Mobile app | ❌ | No dedicated mobile app; claim submission and management via online portal or email only. |
| Paperless claims process | ✅ | Claims are submitted through an online portal or by email; digital supporting documents accepted. |
| Emergency vet service | ❌ | No 24/7 emergency vet line or teleconsultation available to members. |
| Vet/clinic partner network | ❌ | No official network; freedom to consult any licensed veterinarian in Canada or the USA. |
| Coverage abroad | ✅ | Covered in Canada and for trips/vacation travel in the USA; pet must reside in CA ≥6 months/year. |
Customer Reviews of OVMA
| Review platform | Rating and number of reviews |
|---|---|
| Forbes Advisor | 4.1 out of 5 (N.C.) |
We analyzed reviews from the sites listed above.
On the positive side, customers who subscribed to OVMA for their pets often mention:
- An assurance of strict veterinary oversight, as all plans are designed and monitored by Ontario veterinarians.
- A comprehensive dental illness coverage with no exclusions, which provides security for owners concerned about dental issues.
- Flexible deductible options and a clear explanation of coverage amounts are valued by many policyholders.
- The wellness option in the Unlimited+ plan, which stands out for those seeking preventative care reimbursement.
- A transparent claim reimbursement process is appreciated, with most users highlighting straightforward communication.
On the negative side:
- A noticeable increase in deductibles and premiums as pets age is commonly cited as a drawback.
- A strict exclusion of pre-existing conditions, including some conditions identified during required initial exams, disappoints a number of policyholders.
- A lack of direct payment to veterinarians obliges owners to pay upfront, which is seen as inconvenient for emergency expenses.
- No access to a 24/7 veterinary health advice hotline is considered a limitation compared to some competitors.
- Annual and per-incident reimbursement ceilings on entry-level plans can lead to out-of-pocket costs in cases of expensive treatments.
Contact the OVMA
| OVMA 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 OVMA by phone at 1-844-744-6862 or by email at info@ovmapetinsurance.com. Submit a completed claim form with detailed signed veterinary invoices, receipts, and other required documentation within 6 months of treatment. Reimbursement is usually issued by cheque or direct deposit after approval; check claim status by phone or email. |
| To obtain a certificate of insurance | Call 1-844-744-6862 or email info@ovmapetinsurance.com with your policy number and pet details. The certificate is sent by email or mail upon request and can serve as proof of insurance for travel or other administrative purposes. |
| To contact assistance | Phone: 1-844-744-6862 Email: info@ovmapetinsurance.com Mail: OVMA Pet Health Insurance, 301-600 Empress Street, Winnipeg, MB, R3G 0R5. Customer service can assist with general inquiries, claims, contract, and plan details. |
| To cancel my policy | Contact OVMA at 1-844-744-6862 or info@ovmapetinsurance.com. Provide a written request with your policy number and pet details. No specific notice period; cancellation is processed immediately with any unused premium refunded pro rata. |
Submit a completed claim form with detailed signed veterinary invoices, receipts, and other required documentation within 6 months of treatment.
Reimbursement is usually issued by cheque or direct deposit after approval; check claim status by phone or email.
The certificate is sent by email or mail upon request and can serve as proof of insurance for travel or other administrative purposes.
Email: info@ovmapetinsurance.com
Mail: OVMA Pet Health Insurance, 301-600 Empress Street, Winnipeg, MB, R3G 0R5.
Customer service can assist with general inquiries, claims, contract, and plan details.
Provide a written request with your policy number and pet details.
No specific notice period; cancellation is processed immediately with any unused premium refunded pro rata.
FAQ
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with OVMA?
Yes, with OVMA pet insurance you pay the veterinarian directly at the time of treatment. OVMA does not offer an advance payment or third-party payment system; you must then submit a claim to be reimbursed according to your policy.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with OVMA?
You can cancel your OVMA policy at any time by contacting customer service by phone or email. Simply provide written notice and your policy number; cancellation is effective upon receipt, and any unused premium will be refunded on a prorated basis.
What does OVMA pet insurance cover?
OVMA plans cover unexpected accidents and illnesses, hospitalization, surgery, diagnostics, prescribed medications, dental care for teeth and gums, alternative and behavioral therapies, medical devices (with pre-approval), and more. The Unlimited+ plan also includes wellness care such as annual checkups, vaccinations, and routine bloodwork.
Are there any waiting periods before coverage begins?
Yes, there is a 48-hour waiting period for accidents and a 14-day waiting period for illnesses and behavioral therapy. Dental and some orthopedic conditions have a 6-month waiting period. There is no waiting period for preventive care on the Unlimited+ plan.
Are pre-existing conditions covered by OVMA?
No, any condition or symptoms present before your policy begins or during the waiting periods are considered pre-existing and are excluded from coverage. OVMA will review your pet’s medical history at enrollment to determine any applicable exclusions.
How do I file a claim with OVMA pet insurance?
To make a claim, pay your vet and then submit a completed claim form along with detailed invoices and relevant medical records. Claims can be submitted online, by email, or by mail, and must be filed within six months of treatment. Reimbursements are issued by cheque or direct deposit after approval.
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with OVMA?
Yes, with OVMA pet insurance you pay the veterinarian directly at the time of treatment. OVMA does not offer an advance payment or third-party payment system; you must then submit a claim to be reimbursed according to your policy.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with OVMA?
You can cancel your OVMA policy at any time by contacting customer service by phone or email. Simply provide written notice and your policy number; cancellation is effective upon receipt, and any unused premium will be refunded on a prorated basis.
What does OVMA pet insurance cover?
OVMA plans cover unexpected accidents and illnesses, hospitalization, surgery, diagnostics, prescribed medications, dental care for teeth and gums, alternative and behavioral therapies, medical devices (with pre-approval), and more. The Unlimited+ plan also includes wellness care such as annual checkups, vaccinations, and routine bloodwork.
Are there any waiting periods before coverage begins?
Yes, there is a 48-hour waiting period for accidents and a 14-day waiting period for illnesses and behavioral therapy. Dental and some orthopedic conditions have a 6-month waiting period. There is no waiting period for preventive care on the Unlimited+ plan.
Are pre-existing conditions covered by OVMA?
No, any condition or symptoms present before your policy begins or during the waiting periods are considered pre-existing and are excluded from coverage. OVMA will review your pet’s medical history at enrollment to determine any applicable exclusions.
How do I file a claim with OVMA pet insurance?
To make a claim, pay your vet and then submit a completed claim form along with detailed invoices and relevant medical records. Claims can be submitted online, by email, or by mail, and must be filed within six months of treatment. Reimbursements are issued by cheque or direct deposit after approval.
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