Is Pet plus us Pet Insurance Worth It? Our 2025 Review
Our expert's opinion on Pet plus us
Pets Plus Us Accident & Illness Insurance, underwritten by Northbridge General Insurance Corporation, provides individualized, reimbursement-based coverage for dogs and cats in CA, focusing on new accidents and illnesses after waiting periods, with adjustable annual limits, mandatory coinsurance ('Your Share'), and annual deductibles determined at enrollment, but without routine wellness or preventive care budgets. Pricing places Pets Plus Us below the costliest tier, but notable for annual limits that reset (no lifetime cap), sublimits on devices ($1,000/year) and prescription food ($200/dog, $50/cat/year), and coverage for alternative therapies if vet-prescribed; however, compared with competitors (such as Trupanion, Spot), the policy is constrained by strict exclusions and routine premium and deductible hikes, especially affecting senior pets. The policy best suits pet owners seeking broad coverage for young to middle-aged pets, especially mixed breeds, where pre-existing exclusions and cost progression will be less punitive over time. Northbridge General Insurance Corporation is well-established in Canada, but Pets Plus Us suffers from a low Trustpilot score (2.2/5, 132 reviews), persistent reports of sharp premium increases, restrictive pre-existing exclusions, and mixed claim handling, with reimbursement times ranging from rapid (under a week) to significantly delayed depending on case complexity and customer feedback.
- ✅Adjustable annual limits, no lifetime cap
- ✅Alternative and behavioural therapies included if vet-prescribed
- ✅Coverage includes medical devices and travel emergencies
- ✅Broad benefit range: exams, surgery, diagnostics, hospitalization
- ✅Online portal for claim submissions and policy management
- ✅Direct deposit available for reimbursements
- ✅Simple waiting periods: 48h (accident), 14 days (illness)
- ❌Sharp premium and deductible increases, especially as pets age
- ❌Major exclusions: wellness, preventive and routine dental care
- ❌Strict, often broad pre-existing condition exclusions
- ❌Mixed claim turnaround times; inconsistent customer service reported
- ❌Low customer satisfaction versus leading competitors
- ✅Adjustable annual limits, no lifetime cap
- ✅Alternative and behavioural therapies included if vet-prescribed
- ✅Coverage includes medical devices and travel emergencies
- ✅Broad benefit range: exams, surgery, diagnostics, hospitalization
- ✅Online portal for claim submissions and policy management
- ✅Direct deposit available for reimbursements
- ✅Simple waiting periods: 48h (accident), 14 days (illness)
Our expert's opinion on Pet plus us
Score- ✅Adjustable annual limits, no lifetime cap
- ✅Alternative and behavioural therapies included if vet-prescribed
- ✅Coverage includes medical devices and travel emergencies
- ✅Broad benefit range: exams, surgery, diagnostics, hospitalization
- ✅Online portal for claim submissions and policy management
- ✅Direct deposit available for reimbursements
- ✅Simple waiting periods: 48h (accident), 14 days (illness)
- ❌Sharp premium and deductible increases, especially as pets age
- ❌Major exclusions: wellness, preventive and routine dental care
- ❌Strict, often broad pre-existing condition exclusions
- ❌Mixed claim turnaround times; inconsistent customer service reported
- ❌Low customer satisfaction versus leading competitors
- ✅Adjustable annual limits, no lifetime cap
- ✅Alternative and behavioural therapies included if vet-prescribed
- ✅Coverage includes medical devices and travel emergencies
- ✅Broad benefit range: exams, surgery, diagnostics, hospitalization
- ✅Online portal for claim submissions and policy management
- ✅Direct deposit available for reimbursements
- ✅Simple waiting periods: 48h (accident), 14 days (illness)
- Pet insurance coverage
- Good to know
- Exclusions of Pet Plus US
- Pet plus us Prices
- Pet Plus Us Assistance
- Customer feedback on Pet plus us
- How to contact Pet Plus Us?
- FAQ
Why trust HelloSafe?
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, more than one million Canadians trust us each month to guide them in their most important financial decisions.
Pet insurance coverage
Pets Plus Us offers a customizable Accident & Illness plan for dogs and cats, providing coverage for sudden, new medical issues (after a 2-day waiting period for accidents and 14 days for illnesses), with annual reimbursement limits and no lifetime cap; deductible and reimbursement rate (coinsurance) are chosen at enrollment and recalculated at renewal.
Comprehensive coverage includes vet exams, diagnostics, surgery, hospitalization, prescription medications, some alternative therapies, behavioral therapy, medical devices (with sublimits), emergency boarding, travel in Canada/USA, and end-of-life expenses for covered events.
A distinct strength is the broad scope of medical expense coverage (including alternative and behavioral therapies) and clear travel/boarding protection, but the plan is notably restrictive regarding pre-existing conditions, routine/wellness care (vaccines, preventive dental, parasite control, spay/neuter), and only covers dental injuries from eligible accidents.
Major weaknesses include strict exclusions for wellness and preventative care, reproductive procedures, experimental treatments, and broad pre-existing condition clauses—especially for bilateral or breed-predisposed issues.
| Name of coverage | Pets Plus Us Accident & Illness (customizable) |
|---|---|
| Plan positioning | Customizable plan for comprehensive accident/illness |
| Type of coverage (accident, illness, both, etc.) | Both accident and illness (after waiting periods) |
| Animals covered (dogs, cats, other) | Dogs and cats only |
| Reimbursement rate (%) | Customizable (coinsurance; selected at enrollment) |
| Annual reimbursement limit | Customizable (annual max specified in coverage summary) |
| Deductible (annual or per claim) | Annual deductible, chosen at enrollment |
| Age limits for enrollment (for dogs and cats) | Not before 7 weeks; special requirements 8+ years (dogs/cats); giant breeds 6+ years |
| Pre-enrollment health questionnaire | Medical records required; recent vet exam for some ages |
| Waiting period (illness) | 14 days |
| Waiting period (accident) | 2 days (coverage starts on day 3) |
| Lifetime coverage once subscribed | Annual limits reset; no lifetime cap as long as renewed |
| Vet consultations (regular + emergency) | ✅ Covered after deductible/coinsurance |
| Medications | ✅ Prescribed drugs only, with restrictions |
| Hospitalization | ✅ Covered |
| Surgery (including anesthesia) | ✅ Covered |
| Diagnostic tests (X-ray, MRI, ultrasound, lab tests) | ✅ Covered |
| Dental care (includes scaling and procedures) | ❌ Only accidental, healthy tooth extraction with strict criteria |
| Preventive care package (vaccines, antiparasitics, spaying/neutering, ID/microchipping) | ❌ Not covered |
| Alternative medicine (osteopathy, acupuncture, etc.) | ✅ If prescribed, for covered conditions only |
| Travel coverage (countries included, duration) | ✅ Eligible vet care in Canada & USA only |
| Euthanasia | ✅ If due to covered accident/illness; up to $1,000 |
| Death & cremation coverage | ✅ If due to covered accident/illness; up to $1,000 |
| Theft or loss of pet + search expenses | ✅ Up to $1,000 per incident (advertising + reward) |
| Boarding fees (if owner is hospitalized) | ✅ Up to $1,000 per incident ($30/day, owner hospitalized ≥48h) |
Good to know
- No coverage for routine, wellness, or preventive care (vaccines, spay/neuter, parasite control, dental cleaning).
- Strict exclusions for pre-existing conditions (including symptoms before the end of waiting periods).
- Medical record submission required and additional steps/requirements for pets aged 8+ (dogs/cats) or giant breed dogs 6+.
- Most medical devices covered up to $1,000/year; prescription food supply covered with sublimits if prescribed for a covered condition.
- No coverage for elective/cosmetic procedures, experimental treatments, or non-vet prescribed meds/supplements.
Compare all options and adjust coverage to find the most affordable rate for your pet’s needs.
👉 Compare the best pet insurance for your furry friend for free!Start Your Free Comparison Now!Exclusions of Pet Plus US
Exclusions in the Pets Plus Us policy are comprehensive and aligned with Canadian market standards, most notably excluding pre-existing conditions, bilateral conditions if one side was present pre-policy, reproductive care (including spay/neuter and related complications), and all wellness or routine care such as vaccinations, dental cleaning, and checkups.
Elective, cosmetic, and non-medical procedures (like tail docking, ear cropping, and grooming devices) are always excluded, as are experimental or non-veterinary treatments.
Dental coverage is especially restrictive, only allowing accidental extraction of a healthy tooth due to a specific, witnessed accident – all other dental, orthodontic, and gum disease care is not covered.
Claims arising from negligence, preventable incidents, or repeated preventable accidents (such as multiple foreign body ingestions) are excluded, as are any claims related to unlicensed medication, war, terrorism, or other insurance policies.
Notably, senior pets face additional scrutiny on enrollment (exam, bloodwork) and certain critical illnesses (e.g., FIP, FIV, FLV) are categorically excluded if present within the initial 14-day waiting period, making some exclusions more rigorously applied than with some competitors.
Pet plus us Prices
Pets Plus Us positions itself in the mid-range of the Canadian pet insurance market, offering accident and illness coverage with a reasonable balance between cost and benefits.
While the coverage is fairly comprehensive—featuring accident, illness, some alternative therapies, and a selection of incident-based add-ons—the overall annual and sublimits are typical, and deductibles can rise notably as pets age.
Pricing is relatively competitive for younger pets, but premiums and deductibles may increase steeply for older animals, making it potentially less affordable for senior pets compared to some peers.
Unlike some digital-first providers, Pets Plus Us maintains a traditional structure, which may limit the cost efficiencies sometimes seen in pure online players.
Overall, its plans are suitable for pet owners seeking a solid standard of coverage at a market-average cost, but the value proposition can decrease with advancing pet age or if extensive lifelong benefits are a priority.
Compare plans below to find the best match and price for your pet’s needs.
| Accident Plan | Accident & Illness Plan | Accident, Illness & Wellness Add-on | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Young cat (2–4 years) | $18/month | $33/month | $41/month |
| Senior cat (7–8 years) | $23/month | $46/month | $55/month |
| Small breed dog (2–4 years) | $22/month | $49/month | $58/month |
| Large breed dog (2–4 years) | $29/month | $62/month | $73/month |
| Senior dog (7–8 years) | $41/month | $111/month | $127/month |
Promo codes Pet Plus US
| Pet plus us Promo Codes | Details |
|---|---|
| HelloSafe Promo Code | -5% on your quote |
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 Pet Plus Us?
With Pets Plus Us, you pay your veterinarian directly for your pet’s care, then submit your claim. Once your annual deductible is met, the plan reimburses a set percentage of your eligible costs (up to your annual coverage maximum). Here are examples based on the Accident & Illness plan’s highest tier (e.g., $15,000 annual limit, 80% reimbursement rate, $200 annual deductible).
Example 1: Cruciate Ligament Surgery for a Dog
- Total vet costs: $4,000 (consultation, x-rays, surgery, hospitalization, medications)
- Annual deductible to subtract: $200 (this is your first claim of the year)
- Eligible amount after deductible: $4,000 – $200 = $3,800
- Reimbursement at 80%: $3,800 × 80% = $3,040
- You receive a reimbursement of $3,040.
- Your out-of-pocket: $960
ℹ️ The deductible only applies once per policy year. For future claims that year, as long as your coverage limit isn’t reached, only the 20% co-insurance applies.
Example 2: Allergic Dermatitis (Skin Allergy) Workup and Treatment for a Cat
- Total vet costs: $600 (exam, diagnostics, allergy management medication)
- Annual deductible applies: $200 (not yet met this policy year)
- Eligible amount after deductible: $600 – $200 = $400
- Reimbursement at 80%: $400 × 80% = $320
- You receive a reimbursement of $320.
- Your out-of-pocket: $280
ℹ️ If you’ve already met your deductible earlier in the year, you would be reimbursed $480 (80% of $600), and your out-of-pocket would be $120.
Example 3: Hospitalization and IV Fluids After Accidental Ingestion (Emergency)
- Total vet costs: $2,500 (emergency exam, hospitalization, IV fluids, supportive care)
- Annual deductible already used earlier in policy year
- Reimbursement at 80%: $2,500 × 80% = $2,000
- You receive $2,000.
- Your out-of-pocket: $500
ℹ️ Because the deductible has already been satisfied for the year, all subsequent claims are reimbursed at 80% until you reach your annual limit of $15,000.
Note: Preventive and routine care (like annual checkups, vaccines, and spay/neuter) are not covered under Pets Plus Us Accident & Illness plans. Only new accidents and illnesses after the waiting period are eligible.
Pet Plus Us Assistance
Pets Plus Us does not offer advance payment to veterinarians, meaning policyholders must pay out of pocket and submit claims for reimbursement, a process managed via an online portal or email but not enabled through a mobile app.
There are no specific payment facilities such as interest-free instalments; premiums are payable monthly by direct debit or credit card.
A member portal allows policy management and claim submission, but the lack of a mobile app may be limiting for users seeking more flexible, app-based options.
Support services such as a 24/7 veterinary advice line or teleconsultation, and a partner veterinary network, are notably absent.
Coverage for eligible veterinary care extends throughout Canada and the USA for temporary trips, but does not provide support for veterinary care outside of these countries or for long-term international stays.
| Assistance Pet plus us | Available? | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Advance payment | ❌ | No advance payment to vets; all treatment must be paid by the owner at the clinic. |
| Payment facilities | ❌ | No interest-free instalments or flexible payment plans; premiums are paid monthly. |
| Mobile app | ❌ | No mobile app available for claims or account management; online member portal only. |
| Paperless claims process | ✅ | Claims submitted via online portal or email; paperless, direct deposit is available. |
| Emergency vet service | ❌ | No 24/7 veterinary helpline or teleconsultation included for policyholders. |
| Vet/clinic partner network | ❌ | No preferred clinic or veterinary partner network; any registered vet may be used. |
| Coverage abroad | ✅ | Eligible for vet treatment in Canada and USA; not valid beyond these regions. |
Customer feedback on Pet plus us
| Review platform | Rating and number of reviews |
|---|---|
| Trustpilot | 2.2/5 (132 reviews) |
We analyzed reviews from the site listed above. On the positive side, customers who subscribed to Pets Plus Us for their pets often mention:
- An efficient claim processing system, with reimbursements sometimes delivered in under a week.
- A comprehensive coverage for some pet owners, especially for allergy treatments and chronic conditions, when claims are approved.
- A polite and supportive customer service experience for those who had positive interactions.
- A sense of peace of mind stemming from coverage for unexpected, high veterinary bills.
- A small subset of users who express they would highly recommend Pets Plus Us based on their own claim outcomes.
On the negative side:
- A rapid and steep increase in monthly premiums, with some policyholders reporting their rates more than doubled from one year to another.
- An increase in the annual deductible, sometimes coinciding with premium hikes, making the coverage less cost-effective, particularly as pets age.
- A broad application of pre-existing condition exclusions, including cases where policyholders believed illnesses or accidents should be covered, leading to denied claims.
- A downgrade or cancellation of older or legacy policies, often with less generous coverage limits and higher costs, causing discontent among long-time customers.
- A perception that the company attempts to limit or avoid payouts, sometimes by reclassifying claims as related to pre-existing conditions or by denying based on breed predispositions.
- A significant number of complaints about slow, ineffective, or contradictory customer service, including delayed responses and technical issues with the online portal.
- A lack of transparency and poor communication regarding policy changes, cancellations, or marketing emails, sometimes contrary to client preferences.
- Delays in receiving refunds after policy cancellation, with some customers waiting several weeks without resolution.
How to contact Pet Plus Us?
| Pet plus us Customer Service (en) | 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 | You can submit and track your claim: - Via the online member portal (portal.petsplusus.com) - By email: [email protected] - By mail: PTZ Insurance Services Ltd., 710 Dorval Drive, Suite 400, Oakville, ON L6K 3V7 Required documents: paid invoice(s), examination notes, and a full medical history (for new policies, within the first 30 days). Submit within 180 days of treatment. Reimbursements are made by direct deposit or cheque. Average processing time may be less than one week after receipt of all documents. For questions, call 1-800-364-8422. |
| To obtain a certificate of insurance | Contact customer service by: - Phone: 1-800-364-8422 - Email: [email protected] - Mail: PTZ Insurance Services Ltd., 710 Dorval Drive, Suite 400, Oakville, ON L6K 3V7 Provide your policy details and request a certificate of insurance. |
| To contact assistance | For any support, claim, or policy inquiry: - Phone: 1-800-364-8422 - Email: [email protected] - Member portal: portal.petsplusus.com - Mail: PTZ Insurance Services Ltd., 710 Dorval Drive, Suite 400, Oakville, ON L6K 3V7 |
| To cancel my policy | You can cancel your policy at any time by calling 1-800-364-8422. If cancelled within the first 30 days and no claims have been reimbursed, a full refund is provided. After 30 days, unused premiums will be refunded. You may also send a cancellation request by email ([email protected]) or mail (PTZ Insurance Services Ltd., 710 Dorval Drive, Suite 400, Oakville, ON L6K 3V7). Have your policy details ready. No specific documents are required to cancel, but for expedited processing, include your full policy number and the desired cancellation date. Claims for eligible treatments prior to cancellation may be submitted within 60 days. |
- Via the online member portal (portal.petsplusus.com)
- By email: [email protected]
- By mail: PTZ Insurance Services Ltd., 710 Dorval Drive, Suite 400, Oakville, ON L6K 3V7
Required documents: paid invoice(s), examination notes, and a full medical history (for new policies, within the first 30 days). Submit within 180 days of treatment.
Reimbursements are made by direct deposit or cheque. Average processing time may be less than one week after receipt of all documents. For questions, call 1-800-364-8422.
- Phone: 1-800-364-8422
- Email: [email protected]
- Mail: PTZ Insurance Services Ltd., 710 Dorval Drive, Suite 400, Oakville, ON L6K 3V7
Provide your policy details and request a certificate of insurance.
- Phone: 1-800-364-8422
- Email: [email protected]
- Member portal: portal.petsplusus.com
- Mail: PTZ Insurance Services Ltd., 710 Dorval Drive, Suite 400, Oakville, ON L6K 3V7
If cancelled within the first 30 days and no claims have been reimbursed, a full refund is provided.
After 30 days, unused premiums will be refunded.
You may also send a cancellation request by email ([email protected]) or mail (PTZ Insurance Services Ltd., 710 Dorval Drive, Suite 400, Oakville, ON L6K 3V7).
Have your policy details ready. No specific documents are required to cancel, but for expedited processing, include your full policy number and the desired cancellation date.
Claims for eligible treatments prior to cancellation may be submitted within 60 days.
FAQ
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with Pet plus us?
Yes, with Pets Plus Us, you must pay your veterinarian directly at the time of treatment. The policy operates on a reimbursement basis: after you pay your vet, you submit a claim (with required documents), and if eligible, Pets Plus Us reimburses you according to your coverage terms. There is currently no direct, advance, or third-party payment system.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with Pet plus us?
You can cancel your Pets Plus Us policy at any time by calling their customer service. There is no required notice period, but you should provide your policy number and identification; cancellation by phone is the most direct method. If you cancel within the first 30 days and have not made any claims, you’ll get a full refund.
What does Pets Plus Us pet insurance cover and exclude?
Pets Plus Us covers eligible costs of new accidents and illnesses that arise after waiting periods, including diagnostics, surgery, hospitalization, prescribed medications, and some alternative therapies. It does NOT cover pre-existing conditions, routine/wellness care, elective/cosmetic procedures, or most dental work except accidental tooth extractions due to a covered accident.
How do annual and sublimits work on my policy?
Your policy features an annual maximum—the most Pets Plus Us will reimburse in a policy year—which resets on renewal. There are also sublimits for certain benefits, such as medical devices, prescription food, or trip cancellation. Be sure to review your Summary of Coverage for specific annual and per-incident limits.
Are there any waiting periods before coverage begins?
Yes. Coverage for accidents starts on the third day after your policy begins (48-hour wait), while coverage for illnesses starts on day 15 (14-day wait). Any accident or illness occurring before these waiting periods ends, or any related symptoms, will be considered pre-existing and not covered.
How are pre-existing conditions determined?
Any health issue, sign, symptom, or treatment your pet has before or during the waiting periods is considered pre-existing, whether or not formally diagnosed. Such conditions, plus certain bilateral conditions found on one side of your pet’s body, are permanently excluded from coverage. It’s important to submit thorough medical records when enrolling.
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with Pet plus us?
Yes, with Pets Plus Us, you must pay your veterinarian directly at the time of treatment. The policy operates on a reimbursement basis: after you pay your vet, you submit a claim (with required documents), and if eligible, Pets Plus Us reimburses you according to your coverage terms. There is currently no direct, advance, or third-party payment system.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with Pet plus us?
You can cancel your Pets Plus Us policy at any time by calling their customer service. There is no required notice period, but you should provide your policy number and identification; cancellation by phone is the most direct method. If you cancel within the first 30 days and have not made any claims, you’ll get a full refund.
What does Pets Plus Us pet insurance cover and exclude?
Pets Plus Us covers eligible costs of new accidents and illnesses that arise after waiting periods, including diagnostics, surgery, hospitalization, prescribed medications, and some alternative therapies. It does NOT cover pre-existing conditions, routine/wellness care, elective/cosmetic procedures, or most dental work except accidental tooth extractions due to a covered accident.
How do annual and sublimits work on my policy?
Your policy features an annual maximum—the most Pets Plus Us will reimburse in a policy year—which resets on renewal. There are also sublimits for certain benefits, such as medical devices, prescription food, or trip cancellation. Be sure to review your Summary of Coverage for specific annual and per-incident limits.
Are there any waiting periods before coverage begins?
Yes. Coverage for accidents starts on the third day after your policy begins (48-hour wait), while coverage for illnesses starts on day 15 (14-day wait). Any accident or illness occurring before these waiting periods ends, or any related symptoms, will be considered pre-existing and not covered.
How are pre-existing conditions determined?
Any health issue, sign, symptom, or treatment your pet has before or during the waiting periods is considered pre-existing, whether or not formally diagnosed. Such conditions, plus certain bilateral conditions found on one side of your pet’s body, are permanently excluded from coverage. It’s important to submit thorough medical records when enrolling.
