PHI Direct Pet Insurance 2025: Complete Canadian Review & Coverage Analysis
Our expert's opinion on PHI Direct
PHI Direct stands out in Canada's pet insurance market with two straightforward plans—Direct 5 ($5,000/year) and Direct 10 ($10,000/year)—focusing on new condition coverage for both cats and dogs at an accessible annual deductible of $200 and consistent 80% reimbursement rate. PHI’s unique model offers each new illness or accident up to 12 months of coverage per policy year, after which those conditions are excluded, setting it apart for budget-conscious owners but limiting long-term chronic care. With premiums approximately 45–50% lower than most competitors, PHI Direct delivers one of the strongest price-value ratios, especially appealing to those willing to accept condition-specific limits for substantial savings. The absence of upper age caps and broad eligibility (including hereditary and congenital conditions, if not pre-existing) make PHI Direct ideal for young or healthy pets, first-time insurants, and families managing tight finances where ongoing chronic coverage is less critical. PHI Direct is backed by a solid financial operational base, with a Reviews.io score of 4.8/5 from 120 reviews, 96% customer recommendation, and rapid, hassle-free digital claims typically reimbursed within days.
- ✅Lowest-cost plans among Canadian pet insurers
- ✅No upper age limit for enrollment
- ✅Covers hereditary and congenital conditions (if not pre-existing)
- ✅Fast, fully digital claims process
- ✅Broad range of alternative and behavioral therapies included
- ✅Simple $200 annual deductible
- ✅All plans include 24/7 telehealth support
- ❌Only 12-month coverage per new condition, then exclusion
- ❌No lifetime coverage for chronic illnesses
- ❌No wellness, preventive, or routine care benefits
- ❌Dental coverage limited to traumatic fractures only
- ❌Repeat preventable incidents (e.g., 3+) excluded thereafter
Score- ✅Lowest-cost plans among Canadian pet insurers
- ✅No upper age limit for enrollment
- ✅Covers hereditary and congenital conditions (if not pre-existing)
- ✅Fast, fully digital claims process
- ✅Broad range of alternative and behavioral therapies included
- ✅Simple $200 annual deductible
- ✅All plans include 24/7 telehealth support
Our expert's opinion on PHI Direct
- ✅Lowest-cost plans among Canadian pet insurers
- ✅No upper age limit for enrollment
- ✅Covers hereditary and congenital conditions (if not pre-existing)
- ✅Fast, fully digital claims process
- ✅Broad range of alternative and behavioral therapies included
- ✅Simple $200 annual deductible
- ✅All plans include 24/7 telehealth support
- ❌Only 12-month coverage per new condition, then exclusion
- ❌No lifetime coverage for chronic illnesses
- ❌No wellness, preventive, or routine care benefits
- ❌Dental coverage limited to traumatic fractures only
- ❌Repeat preventable incidents (e.g., 3+) excluded thereafter
Score- ✅Lowest-cost plans among Canadian pet insurers
- ✅No upper age limit for enrollment
- ✅Covers hereditary and congenital conditions (if not pre-existing)
- ✅Fast, fully digital claims process
- ✅Broad range of alternative and behavioral therapies included
- ✅Simple $200 annual deductible
- ✅All plans include 24/7 telehealth support
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At HelloSafe, our team of pet insurance experts thoroughly reviews the terms and pricing of insurance policies available in Canada every year, ensuring you receive a reliable and unbiased analysis. Thanks to this meticulous process, hundreds of thousands of Canadians trust HelloSafe each month to support them in making their most important financial decisions.
PHI Direct Coverages
To find your best fit and cost, compare PHI Direct’s Direct 5 and Direct 10 plans before applying.
PHI Direct stands out with a truly budget-oriented approach, providing two simple plans (Direct 5 and Direct 10) that focus exclusively on new accident or illness events, reimbursing 80% after a $200 annual deductible and up to a $5,000 or $10,000 annual limit.
Key features include broad major medical coverage, hereditary/congenital disease eligibility (if not pre-existing), 24/7 telehealth access, travel coverage in the US/territories, and no age limit for enrollment.
However, the unique “time-limited” policy design means each condition is only reimbursed for up to 12 months from diagnosis (then permanently excluded, including bilateral issues), and there is no coverage for preventive/wellness care, chronic or recurring illnesses, routine dental, or behavioral training.
This makes PHI Direct best suited for owners seeking rock-bottom rates and coverage against truly unexpected, acute conditions—not for managing ongoing or chronic health problems.
| Name of coverage | Direct 5 | Direct 10 |
|---|---|---|
| Plan positioning | Budget essential | Budget extended |
| Type of coverage (accident, illness, both, etc.) | Both new accidents & illnesses | Both new accidents & illnesses |
| Animals covered (dogs, cats, other) | Dogs, cats | Dogs, cats |
| Reimbursement rate (%) | 80% after $200 deductible | 80% after $200 deductible |
| Annual reimbursement limit | $5,000 per year | $10,000 per year |
| Deductible (annual or per claim) | $200 annual per policy | $200 annual per policy |
| Age limits for enrollment (for dogs and cats) | No upper age limit | No upper age limit |
| Pre-enrollment health questionnaire | Not Communicated (N.C.) | Not Communicated (N.C.) |
| Waiting period (illness) | 14 days | 14 days |
| Waiting period (accident) | 48 hours | 48 hours |
| Lifetime coverage once subscribed | ❌ 12-month per condition rule | ❌ 12-month per condition rule |
| Vet consultations (regular + emergency) | ✅ subject to annual limit | ✅ subject to annual limit |
| Medications | ✅ subject to annual limit | ✅ subject to annual limit |
| Hospitalization | ✅ subject to annual limit | ✅ subject to annual limit |
| Surgery (including anesthesia) | ✅ subject to annual limit | ✅ subject to annual limit |
| Diagnostic tests (X-ray, MRI, ultrasound, lab tests) | ✅ subject to annual limit | ✅ subject to annual limit |
| Dental care (includes scaling and procedures) | ❌ except trauma extraction only | ❌ except trauma extraction only |
| Preventive care package (vaccines, etc.) | ❌ | ❌ |
| Alternative medicine (osteopathy, acupuncture, etc.) | ✅ if prescribed by vet | ✅ if prescribed by vet |
| Travel coverage (countries included, duration) | Canada, US, US territories | Canada, US, US territories |
| Civil liability | ❌ | ❌ |
| Euthanasia | ✅ for eligible conditions only | ✅ for eligible conditions only |
| Death & cremation coverage | ❌ | ❌ |
| Theft or loss of pet + search expenses | ❌ | ❌ |
| Boarding fees (if owner is hospitalized) | ❌ | ❌ |
Important Coverage Details
Each new condition is covered for a maximum of 12 months from diagnosis; after this period, further expenses (including associated and bilateral conditions) are excluded for life. There is no chronic condition or lifetime coverage.
Telehealth with veterinary nurses is included 24/7 with all plans. Preventive care, routine procedures, and most dental treatments are not included.
Claims for recurrences of preventable incidents (e.g., eating foreign objects) after three episodes per lifetime are no longer eligible.
PHI Direct Exclusions
PHI Direct policy exclusions include standard medical and preventive care limits (pre-existing conditions, any condition manifesting before coverage or during waiting periods, and all routine wellness, vaccination, and dental cleanings), but what notably distinguishes PHI Direct is its strict “new condition” rule: any illness or injury is only covered for 12 months, after which all related and bilateral conditions are permanently excluded from coverage.
Other notable exclusions encompass repeated preventable incidents after three occurrences, chronic/recurring diseases, and all forms of lifetime coverage for any single condition—a major contrast with more traditional pet insurers.
Claims arising from experimental treatments, elective or cosmetic procedures, behaviour/training (except medically prescribed), reproduction, and incidents linked to professional or high-risk activities are also excluded.
There is no coverage for cremation/burial, travel expenses (except emergencies), or administrative fees.
As a consequence, PHI Direct provides affordable protection primarily for new, unexpected events, but owners of pets with ongoing or chronic issues should be particularly cautious of its permanent time-limited exclusions.
| Exclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Medical exclusions | • Pre-existing conditions and symptoms • Conditions/symptoms arising during waiting periods • Chronic/recurring illnesses • Any one accident/illness after 12 months from first diagnosis • Bilateral/associated conditions post-exclusion |
| Preventive/routine care | • Vaccinations • Wellness exams and check-ups • Preventive dental care • Microchipping, grooming, nail trims • Parasite prevention (unless illness diagnosed) |
| Reproductive/exclusionary procedures | • Pregnancy, breeding, queening/whelping, reproductive illness • Spaying/neutering and complications |
| Behavioural exclusions | • Behaviour training • Obedience classes, non-therapeutic behaviour therapy • Preventive/corrective devices |
| Cosmetic/experimental | • Cosmetic/elective procedures (declawing, dewclaw/tail/ear docking) • Non-essential/cosmetic treatments • Experimental/innovative, non-approved therapies/products |
| Dental exclusions | • Only covers extraction for traumatic fracture to healthy, mature tooth • Excludes all other dental, gum, routine, or deciduous tooth treatments |
| Repeat preventable incidents | • After 3 recurrences of preventable incidents (e.g., eating foreign bodies, porcupine quills, fights), subsequent cases are excluded |
| Activity exclusions | • Commercial guarding, professional racing/hunting/fighting, extreme or high-risk activities • Injuries from organized events, intentional acts, or non-compliance with vet advice |
| Other administrative and cost exclusions | • Cremation or burial costs • Travel costs (unless emergency) • Administrative/service fees • Claims already covered by other insurance |
• Conditions/symptoms arising during waiting periods
• Chronic/recurring illnesses
• Any one accident/illness after 12 months from first diagnosis
• Bilateral/associated conditions post-exclusion
• Wellness exams and check-ups
• Preventive dental care
• Microchipping, grooming, nail trims
• Parasite prevention (unless illness diagnosed)
• Spaying/neutering and complications
• Obedience classes, non-therapeutic behaviour therapy
• Preventive/corrective devices
• Non-essential/cosmetic treatments
• Experimental/innovative, non-approved therapies/products
• Excludes all other dental, gum, routine, or deciduous tooth treatments
• Injuries from organized events, intentional acts, or non-compliance with vet advice
• Travel costs (unless emergency)
• Administrative/service fees
• Claims already covered by other insurance
PHI Direct Prices
PHI Direct positions itself as an affordable but limited digital-first provider in the Canadian pet insurance market.
Coverage is focused on “new condition” benefits (accident and illness) for 12 months only, with no lifetime or chronic condition coverage, which explains the significantly lower premiums compared to traditional insurers.
While the annual deductible and 80% reimbursement align with industry norms, the exclusion of ongoing conditions and limited preventive coverage means less comprehensive protection for chronic or complex cases.
The fully digital management model allows PHI Direct to minimize administrative expenses, delivering prices that are often 40–50% below the national average.
PHI Direct is thus highly competitive for healthy pets or owners seeking short-term, value-driven protection but may not satisfy those seeking high-end, all-risk or lifetime coverage.
| Direct 5 | Direct 10 | |
|---|---|---|
| Young cat (2–4 years) | $21/month | $27/month |
| Senior cat (7–8 years) | $26/month | $32/month |
| Small breed dog | $23/month | $29/month |
| Small breed dog (2–4 years) | $23/month | $29/month |
| Large breed dog (2–4 years) | $41/month | $55/month |
| Senior dog (7–8 years) | $54/month | $68/month |
Compare plans to find the best price and coverage for your pet’s needs.
👉 Compare the best pet insurance for your furry friend for free!Start Your Free Comparison Now!PHI Direct Promo Codes
| PHI Direct 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.
PHI Direct Reimbursement Amounts
With PHI Direct’s Direct 10 plan, you pay a $200 annual deductible, then 20% of all further bills—PHI Direct covers the rest, up to a generous $10,000 per year.
Example 1: Emergency stomach surgery after foreign object ingestion
Total veterinary cost: $2,500 (consult, x-rays, surgery, hospitalization, meds)
Deductible to subtract: $200 (first claim this year)
Eligible amount after deductible: $2,500 – $200 = $2,300
Amount reimbursed at 80%: $2,300 × 80% = $1,840
👉 You receive a reimbursement of $1,840.
ℹ️ After your deductible is paid once, all remaining claims in the same year use only the coinsurance rate until your annual limit is reached.
Example 2: Diabetes diagnosis and monthly management
Total vet cost: $1,200 (consults, diagnostics, insulin, home monitoring, follow-up)
Deductible already satisfied on previous claim
Amount reimbursed at 80%: $1,200 × 80% = $960
👉 You receive a reimbursement of $960.
ℹ️ Approved out-of-pocket is $240. Remember, each new condition can be covered for up to 12 months from diagnosis on the Direct 10 plan.
Example 3: Dental care—traumatic canine tooth fracture in a dog
Total vet cost: $780 (exam, x-rays, tooth extraction, anesthesia, meds)
Deductible already satisfied earlier in the policy year
Amount reimbursed at 80%: $780 × 80% = $624
👉 You receive $624.
ℹ️ PHI Direct only covers dental treatments due to accident/injury, such as a broken tooth from trauma—not cleaning or routine care.
Direct Assistance in the Philippines
PHI Direct’s assistance services are limited compared to competitors, with the only dedicated support being a 24/7 telehealth line providing access to veterinary nurses for general guidance rather than direct decision-making or prescription services.
There is no in-house advance payment service or payment facility, so pet owners must pay veterinary costs up front before requesting reimbursement.
The absence of a mobile app or digital claim tracking tool means users rely on the online portal for managing most requests, which could be less convenient for those preferring mobile-first experiences.
Reimbursements are paperless and managed online or by email, which streamlines the claims process, but lacks the real-time tracking features seen with some insurers.
PHI Direct does not offer a partner veterinary network, but coverage applies in Canada, the US, and US territories, offering flexibility for travel emergencies but not for long-term stays abroad.
| Assistance PHI Direct | Available? | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Advance payment | ❌ | No advance payment: you must pay the clinic in full up front, then file for reimbursement. No Petcard or Payvet system offered. |
| Payment facilities | ❌ | No special installment or deferred payment options; full policy premium is paid monthly or annually through standard payment methods. |
| Mobile app | ❌ | No dedicated mobile app for claims or policy management. All services accessed through web portal or by email. User experience rating: N.C. |
| Paperless claims process | ✅ | Claims can be submitted via the online portal or by email. All reimbursements and status updates are processed digitally; typical processing times apply. |
| Emergency vet service | ✅ | 24/7 telehealth line via 1-855-587-7710 for veterinary nurse support. No veterinary teleconsultations or direct emergency care line. |
| Vet/clinic partner network | ❌ | No formal partner veterinarian or clinic network: you may use any licensed vet in Canada, the US, or US territories. |
| Coverage abroad | ✅ | Coverage applies in Canada, the US, and US territories (including military bases) for emergencies while traveling. Permanent moves and other regions excluded. |
Customer Reviews of PHI Direct
| Review platform | Rating and number of reviews |
|---|---|
| Reviews.io | 4.8/5 (120 reviews) |
We analyzed reviews from the sites listed above.
On the positive side, customers who subscribed to PHI Direct for their pets often mention:
- A very fast and straightforward claims process, with approvals and reimbursements typically completed quickly.
- An affordable premium compared to other Canadian pet insurers, with transparent coverage terms.
- A compassionate and knowledgeable customer support team that is easy to reach.
- A user-friendly website and simple documentation requirements for submitting claims.
- A high rate of recommendation among existing policyholders.
On the negative side:
- A lack of coverage for chronic or recurring conditions, as each new condition is only covered for up to 12 months.
- An absence of reimbursement for preventive care, routine check-ups, or dental cleanings.
- A few concerns about limited coverage for hereditary or breed-specific conditions after their initial episode.
- A $200 annual deductible, which some find high for minor claims.
- No mobile app or digital tool for real-time claim tracking or document upload from a smartphone.
Contact PHI Direct
| PHI Direct 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 | Claims can be submitted by email to care@phidirect.com or by mail at 309-1277 Lynn Valley Road, North Vancouver, BC, V7J 0A2. Include a completed claim form and all relevant original invoices. Typical payment is made by direct deposit or cheque within 14 calendar days after receiving all required documents. For claim follow-up, contact 1-855-600-7072 or care@phidirect.com. |
| To obtain a certificate of insurance | Contact PHI Direct by phone at 1-855-600-7072 or email care@phidirect.com with your policy details and request a certificate of insurance. Documents are typically emailed within 2–3 business days. |
| To contact assistance | For general inquiries, call 1-855-600-7072 or email care@phidirect.com. For 24/7 veterinary nurse telehealth advice, call 1-855-587-7710. |
| To cancel my policy | Call 1-855-600-7072 or email care@phidirect.com with your policy number and written cancellation request. No specific notice period required; cancellation is effective upon processing. For a refund of any prepaid premiums, provide a completed cancellation form (if requested) and proof of payment. Written requests can also be mailed to 309-1277 Lynn Valley Road, North Vancouver, BC, V7J 0A2. |
FAQ
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with PHI Direct?
Yes, with PHI Direct you are responsible for paying veterinary costs directly to your clinic at the time of treatment. There is no advance payment or direct-to-vet billing system. After you pay, you submit a claim to PHI Direct for reimbursement. Be sure to keep all original invoices and related medical records for your claim submission.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with PHI Direct?
To cancel your policy, contact PHI Direct’s customer care team by phone or email with your policy number and a written cancellation request. There is no mandatory notice period, and cancellation takes effect upon processing. Any refund of prepaid premiums will be processed if applicable. Written requests by mail are also accepted.
What is the “new condition coverage” rule under PHI Direct policies?
PHI Direct covers each new injury or illness for up to 12 months from its onset, within a policy year. After that period, the condition—and any associated or bilateral conditions—are permanently excluded from future coverage. This approach differs from lifetime coverage providers, so it’s important to assess whether it fits your pet’s needs. Chronic and recurring conditions will not be reimbursed after their first year of coverage.
Are pre-existing conditions covered by PHI Direct?
No, PHI Direct excludes all pre-existing conditions. This means any illness or injury that first showed signs or symptoms before your policy’s effective date, or during the waiting periods, will not be covered now or in the future. This exclusion also applies to closely related or recurring issues. It’s important to provide complete and accurate medical records when enrolling.
Does PHI Direct cover routine or preventive care like annual checkups and vaccinations?
Routine and preventive care such as vaccinations, wellness exams, parasite prevention, nail trims, or dental cleaning are not covered by PHI Direct policies. Coverage only applies to eligible new accidents or illnesses that occur after the policy’s waiting periods. For expenses that are considered routine veterinary care, pet owners are responsible for the full cost. Preventive treatments may be reimbursed only if prescribed as part of treatment for an eligible condition.
How do I access veterinary assistance if my pet has an emergency?
PHI Direct offers a 24/7 telehealth support line staffed by veterinary nurses at 1-855-587-7710, included with every policy. You can use this number for urgent questions or immediate advice regarding your pet’s health. This service does not replace veterinary care but can help guide you in assessing next steps. In critical or life-threatening emergencies, always seek in-person care from a licensed veterinarian.
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with PHI Direct?
Yes, with PHI Direct you are responsible for paying veterinary costs directly to your clinic at the time of treatment. There is no advance payment or direct-to-vet billing system. After you pay, you submit a claim to PHI Direct for reimbursement. Be sure to keep all original invoices and related medical records for your claim submission.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with PHI Direct?
To cancel your policy, contact PHI Direct’s customer care team by phone or email with your policy number and a written cancellation request. There is no mandatory notice period, and cancellation takes effect upon processing. Any refund of prepaid premiums will be processed if applicable. Written requests by mail are also accepted.
What is the “new condition coverage” rule under PHI Direct policies?
PHI Direct covers each new injury or illness for up to 12 months from its onset, within a policy year. After that period, the condition—and any associated or bilateral conditions—are permanently excluded from future coverage. This approach differs from lifetime coverage providers, so it’s important to assess whether it fits your pet’s needs. Chronic and recurring conditions will not be reimbursed after their first year of coverage.
Are pre-existing conditions covered by PHI Direct?
No, PHI Direct excludes all pre-existing conditions. This means any illness or injury that first showed signs or symptoms before your policy’s effective date, or during the waiting periods, will not be covered now or in the future. This exclusion also applies to closely related or recurring issues. It’s important to provide complete and accurate medical records when enrolling.
Does PHI Direct cover routine or preventive care like annual checkups and vaccinations?
Routine and preventive care such as vaccinations, wellness exams, parasite prevention, nail trims, or dental cleaning are not covered by PHI Direct policies. Coverage only applies to eligible new accidents or illnesses that occur after the policy’s waiting periods. For expenses that are considered routine veterinary care, pet owners are responsible for the full cost. Preventive treatments may be reimbursed only if prescribed as part of treatment for an eligible condition.
How do I access veterinary assistance if my pet has an emergency?
PHI Direct offers a 24/7 telehealth support line staffed by veterinary nurses at 1-855-587-7710, included with every policy. You can use this number for urgent questions or immediate advice regarding your pet’s health. This service does not replace veterinary care but can help guide you in assessing next steps. In critical or life-threatening emergencies, always seek in-person care from a licensed veterinarian.
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