SPCA Pet Insurance 2025: Comprehensive Guide & Honest Review
Our expert's opinion on SPCA
Nova Scotia SPCA Pet Health Insurance, underwritten by Petline Insurance Company (a leading Canadian pet insurer since 1989), offers four plan levels (Secure 1–4) for cats and dogs of recognized breeds, covering accidents, illnesses, dental care, alternative and behavioral therapies, and—on the top plan—preventive care.
With annual reimbursement limits varying by plan, a standard 80% reimbursement rate, and adjustable annual deductibles ($100–$400, increasing with pet age), SPCA's pricing falls in the mid-range and aligns closely with custom multi-level competitors like Petsecure and Desjardins, but stands out by providing extensive dental, alternative, and device coverage on every plan.
SPCA is especially appropriate for adopters, senior pets requiring dental/behavioral coverage, and owners interested in preventive care without high-end premiums.
Petline demonstrates financial stability, with decades in the market and one of the largest pet premium portfolios in Canada; however, SPCA-specific reviews are not available and thus no Trustpilot score is reported, while average claim reimbursement times generally fall within 10–30 business days, meeting industry standards.
- ✅All plans include dental, alternative, behavioral, and medical device coverage
- ✅Four plan options with annual limits up to unlimited
- ✅80% reimbursement rate on all plans
- ✅Annual deductible adjustable to budget and pet age
- ✅Free trial for recent adopters
- ✅Top plan covers $350 in preventive care annually
- ✅Established insurer with stable financial background
- ❌No routine/preventive coverage except on top plan
- ❌Lower annual limits on base plans
- ❌Pre-existing conditions and some chronic illnesses excluded
- ❌Deductibles and premiums rise as pets age
- ❌No direct vet payments—reimbursement only
- ✅All plans include dental, alternative, behavioral, and medical device coverage
- ✅Four plan options with annual limits up to unlimited
- ✅80% reimbursement rate on all plans
- ✅Annual deductible adjustable to budget and pet age
- ✅Free trial for recent adopters
- ✅Top plan covers $350 in preventive care annually
- ✅Established insurer with stable financial background
Our expert's opinion on SPCA
ScoreNova Scotia SPCA Pet Health Insurance, underwritten by Petline Insurance Company (a leading Canadian pet insurer since 1989), offers four plan levels (Secure 1–4) for cats and dogs of recognized breeds, covering accidents, illnesses, dental care, alternative and behavioral therapies, and—on the top plan—preventive care.
With annual reimbursement limits varying by plan, a standard 80% reimbursement rate, and adjustable annual deductibles ($100–$400, increasing with pet age), SPCA's pricing falls in the mid-range and aligns closely with custom multi-level competitors like Petsecure and Desjardins, but stands out by providing extensive dental, alternative, and device coverage on every plan.
SPCA is especially appropriate for adopters, senior pets requiring dental/behavioral coverage, and owners interested in preventive care without high-end premiums.
Petline demonstrates financial stability, with decades in the market and one of the largest pet premium portfolios in Canada; however, SPCA-specific reviews are not available and thus no Trustpilot score is reported, while average claim reimbursement times generally fall within 10–30 business days, meeting industry standards.
- ✅All plans include dental, alternative, behavioral, and medical device coverage
- ✅Four plan options with annual limits up to unlimited
- ✅80% reimbursement rate on all plans
- ✅Annual deductible adjustable to budget and pet age
- ✅Free trial for recent adopters
- ✅Top plan covers $350 in preventive care annually
- ✅Established insurer with stable financial background
- ❌No routine/preventive coverage except on top plan
- ❌Lower annual limits on base plans
- ❌Pre-existing conditions and some chronic illnesses excluded
- ❌Deductibles and premiums rise as pets age
- ❌No direct vet payments—reimbursement only
- ✅All plans include dental, alternative, behavioral, and medical device coverage
- ✅Four plan options with annual limits up to unlimited
- ✅80% reimbursement rate on all plans
- ✅Annual deductible adjustable to budget and pet age
- ✅Free trial for recent adopters
- ✅Top plan covers $350 in preventive care annually
- ✅Established insurer with stable financial background
- SPCA Coverages
- SPCA Exclusions
- SPCA Prices
- SPCA Assistance
- Customer Reviews of the SPCA
- Contact the SPCA
- FAQ
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SPCA Coverages
Nova Scotia SPCA offers four pet insurance plans (Secure 1–4) covering both accidents and illnesses, with integrated annual dental, alternative/behavioral therapy, and medical devices benefits across all tiers.
Reimbursement is standardized at 80%, and annual deductibles ($200–$350) and coverage limits ($1,000–unlimited) scale with the plan selected; Secure 4 stands out by adding a wellness package for routine/preventive care, while all plans apply a co-insurance of 20% and specific waiting periods.
Strengths include comprehensive base coverage (dental, alternative, behavioral) and the availability of preventive care in the highest plan, but preventive benefits are not included at lower levels and annual limits in basic plans may be too low for high-cost claims.
General exclusions are strict—pre-existing conditions, non-veterinary care, specialized diets, breeding, and certain feline infections are not covered (see policy for details). SPCA distinguishes itself by offering a trial for recent adopters and access to routine care in its top plan, but reimbursement works on a claim-and-refund model and direct billing is not available.
| Name of coverage | Secure 1 | Secure 2 | Secure 3 | Secure 4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plan positioning | Accident & illness base | Expanded coverage | Higher tiers, higher limits | Premium + routine wellness |
| Type of coverage (accident, illness, both) | Both | Both | Both | Both + preventive |
| Animals covered (dogs, cats, other) | Dogs and cats only | Dogs and cats only | Dogs and cats only | Dogs and cats only |
| Reimbursement rate (%) | 80% | 80% | 80% | 80% |
| Annual reimbursement limit | $1,000–varies by plan | $2,500–varies by plan | $4,000–unlimited by plan | $5,000–unlimited by plan |
| Deductible (annual or per claim) | $200 or $300, annual | $250 or $350, annual | $300 or $350, annual | $350 or $400, annual |
| Age limits for enrollment (for dogs and cats) | Min. 8 weeks; max. varies | Min. 8 weeks; max. varies | Min. 8 weeks; max. varies | Min. 8 weeks; max. varies |
| Pre-enrollment health questionnaire | Yes, with medical records | Yes, with medical records | Yes, with medical records | Yes, with medical records |
| Waiting period (illness) | 14 days | 14 days | 14 days | 14 days |
| Waiting period (accident) | 48 hours | 48 hours | 48 hours | 48 hours |
| Lifetime coverage once subscribed | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Vet consultations (regular + emergency) | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Medications | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Hospitalization | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Surgery (including anesthesia) | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Diagnostic tests (X-ray, MRI, ultrasound, lab) | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Dental care (includes scaling and procedures) | ✅, annual limit applies | ✅, annual limit applies | ✅, annual limit applies | ✅, annual limit applies |
| Preventive care package (vaccines, etc.) | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅, $350/year for routine care |
| Alternative medicine (osteopathy, acupuncture) | ✅, with annual limit | ✅, with annual limit | ✅, with annual limit | ✅, with annual limit |
| Travel coverage (countries included, duration) | Canada/USA, trip duration N.C. | Canada/USA, trip duration N.C. | Canada/USA, trip duration N.C. | Canada/USA, trip duration N.C. |
| Civil liability | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Euthanasia | ✅, within vet fee coverage | ✅, within vet fee coverage | ✅, within vet fee coverage | ✅, within vet fee coverage |
| Death & cremation coverage | ✅, base urn; exclusions apply | ✅, base urn; exclusions apply | ✅, base urn; exclusions apply | ✅, base urn; exclusions apply |
| Theft or loss of pet + search expenses | ✅, advertising/reward covered | ✅, advertising/reward covered | ✅, advertising/reward covered | ✅, advertising/reward covered |
| Boarding fees (if owner is hospitalized) | ✅, up to $25/day | ✅, up to $25/day | ✅, up to $25/day | ✅, up to $25/day |
Pet Insurance Plan Details
Annual limits and deductibles are determined by pet age and plan option; see policy for details.
Dental and alternative therapy each have separate annual limits—refer to the Schedule of Maximum Amounts for precise values.
Waiting period for dental care is 6 months, preventive care in Secure 4 is immediate.
No coverage for breeding, pregnancy, or preventive care except in Secure 4.
All plans require the owner to pay upfront and submit claims for reimbursement.
SPCA Exclusions
The SPCA policy applies strict medical exclusions to all plans, notably pre-existing conditions (any illness, injury, or symptom occurring before enrolment or during the waiting period), which may include later bilateral manifestations.
Routine wellness and preventive procedures (including elective surgeries, food, regular dental care, and spay/neuter) are categorically excluded except under the Secure 4 plan.
Uncommon but important limitations include specific exclusions for certain feline viral diseases (if previously diagnosed), all complications linked to breeding, gestation, or professional/commercial use, as well as medical act costs not performed within Canada/USA or beyond specified travel periods.
All claims relying on incomplete veterinary history or lacking up-to-date vaccines/exams may be rejected, and administrative or intentional acts, war, or catastrophe-related claims are not eligible.
The strict approach to pre-existing conditions, medical record obligations, and bilateral exclusions is a defining feature, and stricter than some competitors especially regarding historic symptoms or incomplete pet history.
| Exclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Medical exclusions | - Pre-existing conditions (illness, injury, symptoms before coverage or during waiting period) - Congenital/hereditary issues if known - Bilateral conditions (both sides/paws, etc.) if one side/symptom pre-existed - Excluded feline conditions if diagnosed (FIP, FIV, FeLV) - Claims lacking up-to-date vaccines or mandated veterinary exams - Dental care for routine/preventive reasons (unless otherwise specified) |
| Preventive/routine care exclusions | - Routine wellness care - Vaccinations - Preventive treatment - Dental scaling/cleaning - Spay/neuter and related complications - Prescription or regular food - Grooming, nail trims, hygiene |
| Reproductive/breeding exclusions | - Breeding, fertility, pregnancy, birth, and all complications - Breeding or whelping costs |
| Professional/activity exclusions | - Costs linked to competition, commercial/professional use (without insurer agreement) - Training, behavioral devices, or obedience classes (beyond covered therapy) |
| Geographic exclusions | - Any claim when pet is living outside Canada >6 months/year - Non-emergency services outside Canada/temporary US travel - Veterinary acts performed elsewhere than Canada/USA without coverage eligibility |
| Administrative/legal exclusions | - Claims for medical acts without required documentation - Incomplete or missing medical records - Administrative fees (form completion, vet admin costs) - Expenses beyond incurred cost or contract limits - Intentional, negligent acts (owner-caused) - War, nuclear incidents, natural disasters, fraud, or acts prior to insurance taking effect |
- Congenital/hereditary issues if known
- Bilateral conditions (both sides/paws, etc.) if one side/symptom pre-existed
- Excluded feline conditions if diagnosed (FIP, FIV, FeLV)
- Claims lacking up-to-date vaccines or mandated veterinary exams
- Dental care for routine/preventive reasons (unless otherwise specified)
- Vaccinations
- Preventive treatment
- Dental scaling/cleaning
- Spay/neuter and related complications
- Prescription or regular food
- Grooming, nail trims, hygiene
- Breeding or whelping costs
- Training, behavioral devices, or obedience classes (beyond covered therapy)
- Non-emergency services outside Canada/temporary US travel
- Veterinary acts performed elsewhere than Canada/USA without coverage eligibility
- Incomplete or missing medical records
- Administrative fees (form completion, vet admin costs)
- Expenses beyond incurred cost or contract limits
- Intentional, negligent acts (owner-caused)
- War, nuclear incidents, natural disasters, fraud, or acts prior to insurance taking effect
SPCA Prices
SPCA insurance positions itself as mid-range among Canadian pet insurance providers, offering feature-rich plans with strong coverage options that include dental, behavioural, and alternative therapies, as well as high annual limits at the upper tiers.
Plans remain accessible in price, especially at entry levels, though comprehensive Secure 3 and Secure 4 tiers cost more to reflect broader coverage and lower out-of-pocket risk.
The Secure 4 plan, which includes preventive care, is particularly attractive for those seeking more holistic protection, but comes at a higher monthly premium comparable to premium market players.
Unlike low-cost or digital-only insurers that cut services to contain price, SPCA maintains transparent, predictable pricing that scales with plan richness and pet age.
Overall, SPCA is well suited to pet owners seeking affordable yet robust and flexible coverage, landing between the budget and premium segments.
Looking to find the best value for your pet’s needs? Compare the monthly cost of each SPCA plan below to choose the right protection for your companion.
| Secure 1 | Secure 2 | Secure 3 | Secure 4 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Young cat (2–4 years) | $24.70/month | $32.00/month | $41.00/month | $56.00/month |
| Senior cat (7–8 years) | $34.00/month | $45.00/month | $58.00/month | $76.00/month |
| Small breed dog | $32.00/month | $43.00/month | $56.00/month | $71.00/month |
| Small breed dog (2–4 years) | $32.00/month | $43.00/month | $56.00/month | $71.00/month |
| Large breed dog (2–4 years) | $41.00/month | $54.00/month | $72.00/month | $93.00/month |
| Senior dog (7–8 years) | $56.00/month | $69.00/month | $91.00/month | $120.00/month |
SPCA Promo Codes
| SPCA 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.
SPCA Reimbursement Amounts: What to Expect
With SPCA’s highest-tier Secure 4 plan, reimbursements are simple: once your annual deductible is paid, SPCA reimburses 80% of all covered costs for the rest of your policy year—covering illnesses, accidents, dental care, and even preventive treatments.
✅ Example 1: Fractured tooth extraction (dog)
Total vet costs: $900 (consultation, dental X-ray, anesthesia, extraction)
Deductible amount to subtract: $250 (annual deductible for a young dog, option A)
Amount eligible for reimbursement: $900 – $250 = $650
80% of that amount reimbursed: $650 × 80% = $520
👉 You receive a reimbursement of $520.
ℹ️ The deductible applies only once per policy year—subsequent covered claims will not have the deductible subtracted again this year.
✅ Example 2: Surgery for intestinal blockage (cat)
Total vet costs: $2,300 (emergency consult, diagnostics, surgery, meds, post-op care)
Deductible already met this policy year
80% reimbursed: $2,300 × 80% = $1,840
👉 You receive a reimbursement of $1,840.
ℹ️ Your out-of-pocket for major emergencies can be much lower with coverage, giving you financial peace of mind in stressful situations.
✅ Example 3: Annual preventive care (dog)
Total vet costs: $270 (wellness check, core vaccinations, flea/tick/heartworm prevention)
Deductible not applied—preventive care is covered separately up to the annual plan’s preventive care limit
80% reimbursed: $270 × 80% = $216
👉 You receive a reimbursement of $216.
ℹ️ Secure 4 is the only SPCA plan that reimburses routine and preventive care—making it easier to budget for annual vet visits as well as unexpected health needs.
SPCA Assistance
| Assistance SPCA | Available? | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Advance payment | ❌ | No advance payment service (Payvet, Petcard, etc.) is offered; reimbursement is post-claim only. |
| Payment facilities | ❌ | No mention of installment or deferred payment options for premiums or vet fees (N.C.). |
| Mobile app | ❌ | No mobile app is provided; administration is via forms, mail, and online portal (N.C.). |
| Paperless claims process | ✅ | Claims can be submitted with scanned documentation online; full digital workflow is supported. |
| Emergency vet service | ❌ | No dedicated 24/7 emergency vet line or teleconsultation service is available to policyholders. |
| Vet/clinic partner network | ❌ | No exclusive partner network; any licensed vet in Canada or the USA may provide covered care. |
| Coverage abroad | ✅ | Coverage includes Canada and vacation travel to the USA; reimbursement up to annual policy limits. |
Customer Reviews of the SPCA
On the positive side, customers who subscribed to SPCA for their pets often mention:
- A clear and supportive range of benefits for accident, illness, dental, alternative therapies, and behavioral care under a variety of plans.
- An added value of preventive care in the top-tier plan and the inclusion of supportive extras such as advertising for lost pets and travel-related reimbursements.
- An absence of deductibles or coinsurance for several extra benefits (boarding, lost pet advertising, cremation) is appreciated.
- A steady renewal of annual benefit limits offers reliable ongoing support without lifetime caps.
- A straightforward and transparent claims process is noted by attentive owners.
On the negative side:
- A systematic exclusion of pre-existing conditions, including any symptoms observed prior to enrollment or within initial waiting periods, frustrates some policyholders.
- A stepwise increase in deductibles and coinsurance as pets age is often cited as resulting in higher out-of-pocket costs.
- A complex matrix of waiting periods for certain coverages and plan-specific differences can be confusing to new subscribers.
- A limitation on the use of benefits if the pet or owner resides outside of Canada for more than six months is considered restrictive.
- A small number of users have expressed disappointment over strict documentation or claim support requirements for reimbursement.
Contact the SPCA
| SPCA 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 the SPCA insurance team by phone at 1-844-737-7387 or email [email protected]. Submit the completed claim form with veterinary invoices and supporting documents by email or mail to SPCA Pet Insurance, 301-600 Empress Street, Winnipeg, MB, R3G 0R5. Claims must be submitted within 6 months of treatment. Reimbursements are paid by cheque or direct deposit; you may request updates on your claim’s status via phone or email. |
| To obtain a certificate of insurance | Request your certificate by calling 1-844-737-7387 or emailing [email protected]. Provide your policy number and insured pet information. The certificate can be sent by email or postal mail as you prefer. |
| To contact assistance | Phone: 1-844-737-7387 Email: [email protected] Mailing address: SPCA Pet Insurance, 301-600 Empress Street, Winnipeg, MB, R3G 0R5. Assistance is available for questions about coverages, claims, or any other policy support. |
| To cancel my policy | Notify SPCA in writing by email at [email protected] or by calling 1-844-737-7387. Please state your policy number and intent to cancel. No notice period is required, but written confirmation may be requested; cancellation is effective at the end of your current paid month. Any refundable premium will be returned for the unused period. |
Submit the completed claim form with veterinary invoices and supporting documents by email or mail to SPCA Pet Insurance, 301-600 Empress Street, Winnipeg, MB, R3G 0R5.
Claims must be submitted within 6 months of treatment.
Reimbursements are paid by cheque or direct deposit; you may request updates on your claim’s status via phone or email.
Provide your policy number and insured pet information.
The certificate can be sent by email or postal mail as you prefer.
Email: [email protected]
Mailing address: SPCA Pet Insurance, 301-600 Empress Street, Winnipeg, MB, R3G 0R5.
Assistance is available for questions about coverages, claims, or any other policy support.
Please state your policy number and intent to cancel.
No notice period is required, but written confirmation may be requested; cancellation is effective at the end of your current paid month.
Any refundable premium will be returned for the unused period.
FAQ
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with SPCA?
Yes, SPCA pet insurance operates on a reimbursement model. You pay your veterinarian directly at the time of treatment, then submit your claim to SPCA for reimbursement according to your plan. There is no advance payment or third-party payment system.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with SPCA?
You can cancel your SPCA pet insurance policy at any time by notifying customer service by phone or email. Provide your policy details and submit a written request if required. There is no specific notice period, and any unused premium will be refunded for the remaining coverage period.
What does SPCA pet insurance cover?
SPCA pet insurance offers several plans that cover veterinary fees for accidents and illnesses, dental treatments, alternative and behavioral therapies, and medical devices. The Secure 4 plan also covers preventive care. Additional benefits like boarding fees, trip cancellation, lost pet advertising, and cremation costs are included within policy limits.
Are pre-existing conditions or routine care covered by SPCA?
No, pre-existing conditions are excluded from coverage. Routine and preventive care are not covered unless you have the Secure 4 plan, which provides some preventive care benefits. Most other plans focus on new illnesses and accidents, not ongoing or previously treated issues.
How do I make a claim and how long does reimbursement take?
To make a claim, pay your vet, complete the claim form, and submit it with invoices and supporting documents by email or mail within six months of treatment. Approved reimbursements are paid by direct deposit or cheque. Processing times can vary, so contact SPCA support if you have questions about your claim’s status.
What are the waiting periods for coverage?
A 48-hour waiting period applies for accidents, and 14 days for illnesses and behavioral therapy. Dental and certain orthopedic conditions, such as ligament injuries, have a six-month waiting period. Secure 4 preventive care is available immediately. Conditions arising during the waiting period are permanently excluded.
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with SPCA?
Yes, SPCA pet insurance operates on a reimbursement model. You pay your veterinarian directly at the time of treatment, then submit your claim to SPCA for reimbursement according to your plan. There is no advance payment or third-party payment system.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with SPCA?
You can cancel your SPCA pet insurance policy at any time by notifying customer service by phone or email. Provide your policy details and submit a written request if required. There is no specific notice period, and any unused premium will be refunded for the remaining coverage period.
What does SPCA pet insurance cover?
SPCA pet insurance offers several plans that cover veterinary fees for accidents and illnesses, dental treatments, alternative and behavioral therapies, and medical devices. The Secure 4 plan also covers preventive care. Additional benefits like boarding fees, trip cancellation, lost pet advertising, and cremation costs are included within policy limits.
Are pre-existing conditions or routine care covered by SPCA?
No, pre-existing conditions are excluded from coverage. Routine and preventive care are not covered unless you have the Secure 4 plan, which provides some preventive care benefits. Most other plans focus on new illnesses and accidents, not ongoing or previously treated issues.
How do I make a claim and how long does reimbursement take?
To make a claim, pay your vet, complete the claim form, and submit it with invoices and supporting documents by email or mail within six months of treatment. Approved reimbursements are paid by direct deposit or cheque. Processing times can vary, so contact SPCA support if you have questions about your claim’s status.
What are the waiting periods for coverage?
A 48-hour waiting period applies for accidents, and 14 days for illnesses and behavioral therapy. Dental and certain orthopedic conditions, such as ligament injuries, have a six-month waiting period. Secure 4 preventive care is available immediately. Conditions arising during the waiting period are permanently excluded.
