Spot Pet Insurance 2025: Full Review for Canadians
Our expert's opinion on Spot
Spot Pet Insurance is a leading digital-first pet insurer in Canada, offering clear, flexible policies for dogs and cats, with four main plans: Accident Only and three Accident & Illness options, each customizable by deductible, reimbursement rate, and annual limit. Spot stands out from competitors like Trupanion and Lemonade through variable reimbursement (70%–90%), annual deductibles from $100 to $300, and optional wellness coverage, all on a digitally managed platform with no paper claims. Its broad coverage—up to $20,000 or more per year, including therapies and extra benefits—targets a mid-to-premium pricing range and is especially attractive for those seeking extensive customization or supplementary wellness coverage. The plans suit young to older pets (up to age limits), owners with multiple animals, and those seeking high reimbursement rates or alternative therapy coverage. Spot is underwritten by Northbridge General Insurance Corporation, a major Canadian insurer, and distributed by PTZ Insurance Services, ensuring solid financial reliability; the Canadian portal reports a 4.3/5 Trustpilot score (71 reviews), while global operations show a 4.7/5 from over 8,000 reviews, with most claims processed within days to a maximum of 60 days, reflecting consistent and rapid claims handling.
- ✅Customizable plans with high reimbursement up to 90%
- ✅Wide annual limits ($20,000+), multiple pet discounts
- ✅Optional wellness add-on for preventive care
- ✅Coverage for alternative therapies ($1,000 annual)
- ✅Clear digital claims submission system
- ✅Strong insurer financial backing (Northbridge)
- ✅Rapid claims reimbursement (often within days)
- ❌Strict exclusions for pre-existing/recurring conditions
- ❌Premiums increase with pet age
- ❌Preventive care not standard, wellness is a paid extra
- ❌Sub-limits on special benefits (therapies, boarding)
- ❌Enrollment age caps: dogs (10), cats (12)
Score- ✅Customizable plans with high reimbursement up to 90%
- ✅Wide annual limits ($20,000+), multiple pet discounts
- ✅Optional wellness add-on for preventive care
- ✅Coverage for alternative therapies ($1,000 annual)
- ✅Clear digital claims submission system
- ✅Strong insurer financial backing (Northbridge)
- ✅Rapid claims reimbursement (often within days)
Our expert's opinion on Spot
- ✅Customizable plans with high reimbursement up to 90%
- ✅Wide annual limits ($20,000+), multiple pet discounts
- ✅Optional wellness add-on for preventive care
- ✅Coverage for alternative therapies ($1,000 annual)
- ✅Clear digital claims submission system
- ✅Strong insurer financial backing (Northbridge)
- ✅Rapid claims reimbursement (often within days)
- ❌Strict exclusions for pre-existing/recurring conditions
- ❌Premiums increase with pet age
- ❌Preventive care not standard, wellness is a paid extra
- ❌Sub-limits on special benefits (therapies, boarding)
- ❌Enrollment age caps: dogs (10), cats (12)
Score- ✅Customizable plans with high reimbursement up to 90%
- ✅Wide annual limits ($20,000+), multiple pet discounts
- ✅Optional wellness add-on for preventive care
- ✅Coverage for alternative therapies ($1,000 annual)
- ✅Clear digital claims submission system
- ✅Strong insurer financial backing (Northbridge)
- ✅Rapid claims reimbursement (often within days)
Why Trust HelloSafe?
At HelloSafe, our pet insurance expert carefully reviews the terms and pricing of insurance policies available on the Canadian market every year, so you receive a trustworthy and impartial analysis. Thanks to this thorough process, hundreds of thousands of Canadians rely on us every month to help them make their most important financial decisions.
Spot Guarantees
Compare plans to secure the best price and the right coverage for your pet’s needs.
Spot offers flexible accident-only and accident & illness plans for dogs and cats, with a strong emphasis on customizable coverage, fast claims processing, and optional wellness add-ons. Reimbursement rates, deductibles, and annual limits are tailored to pet age and selected options, with up to 90% reimbursement and annual limits as high as $20,000; preventive care is available as an add-on for routine services.
Spot stands out for its simplicity, transparent exclusions, and extensive partner vet network, making it easy to access care anywhere in Canada or the U.S., as well as perks like multi-pet discounts and optional wellness coverage.
Weaknesses include strict exclusions for pre-existing conditions, sublimits for certain therapies and extras, increased co-insurance for older pets, and wellness only as a paid option; direct vet payment is also not available. Spot is a well-rounded choice for owners seeking transparency, digital management, and customizable protection, but a careful review of sublimits and exclusions is essential.
| Name of coverage | Accident Only Plan | Accident & Illness Plans (customizable; levels 2-4) |
|---|---|---|
| Plan positioning | Entry-level, budget-friendly | Comprehensive, customizable |
| Type of coverage | Accidents (injuries only) | Accidents & illnesses |
| Animals covered | Dogs and cats | Dogs and cats |
| Reimbursement rate (%) | 80% (fixed; after $100 ded.) | 70–90% (varies by age: 10–30% co-insurance) |
| Annual reimbursement limit | $20,000 | Variable, up to $20,000 |
| Deductible (annual or per claim) | $100 annual | $100–$300 annual (age-dependent) |
| Age limits for enrollment (dogs/cats) | 8 wks min, dogs <10 yrs, cats <12 yrs | 8 wks min, dogs <10 yrs, cats <12 yrs |
| Pre-enrollment health questionnaire | Animal health checklist ± exam | Animal health checklist ± exam |
| Waiting period (illness) | ❌ | 14 days |
| Waiting period (accident) | 1 day | 1 day |
| Lifetime coverage once subscribed | ✅ while policy active | ✅ while policy active |
| Vet consultations (regular + emergency) | ✅ (accidents only) | ✅ (accidents & illnesses) |
| Medications | ✅ (accidents only) | ✅ (accidents & illnesses) |
| Hospitalization | ✅ (accidents only) | ✅ (full) |
| Surgery (including anesthesia) | ✅ (accidents only) | ✅ |
| Diagnostic tests (X-ray, MRI, ultrasound, lab tests) | ✅ (accidents only) | ✅ (accidents & illnesses) |
| Dental care (includes scaling/procedures) | Accident-related extraction only | Extraction for accident; illness dental excluded |
| Preventive care package | ❌ | Optional add-on (vaccines, deworming, exams) |
| Alternative medicine (osteopathy, acupuncture, etc.) | ✅, up to $1,000/yr (with accident) | ✅, up to $1,000/yr (accident/illness) |
| Travel coverage (countries, duration) | Canada & USA, up to 182 days/yr | Canada & USA, up to 182 days/yr |
| Civil liability | ❌ | ❌ |
| Euthanasia | Accident only | Accident/illness (covered events only) |
| Death & cremation coverage | Accident only, up to $500 | Accident/illness, up to $500 for death, $200 for cremation |
| Theft or loss of pet + search expenses | Up to $500/incident (accident only) | Up to $500/incident |
| Boarding fees (if owner is hospitalized) | Up to $500/incident | Up to $500/incident |
Spot Pet Insurance - Key Policy Details
Spot reimburses 50% of prescribed diet food costs (up to $500/year) and has limits for alternative/behavioral therapies ($1,000/year). Claims must be submitted within 180 days after treatment. Optional wellness coverage is only available alongside an accident & illness plan. Enroll animals from 8 weeks old; pre-existing conditions and routine/preventive care are excluded except via paid preventive add-on.
Spot Exclusions
Spot’s exclusions are comprehensive, as with most Canadian insurers, notably excluding pre-existing conditions (and any bilateral conditions if previously affected on one side) and any care tied to routine or preventive services unless a wellness add-on is purchased.
Coverage is also denied for elective procedures, experimental treatments, reproductive issues (including pregnancy, breeding, and birth), and any expense resulting from professional or working animal activity.
Strict claim filing timelines, incident caps, and sublimits (such as for alternative therapies or prescribed diets) apply, while accident-only plans exclude all illness and related treatments.
Spot’s refusal of claims where animals are enrolled under the minimum (8 weeks) or beyond maximum ages (dogs over 10, cats over 12) and disqualification for late claim filing set it apart from some competitors.
Overall, coverage is generous for acute needs, but meticulous adherence to documentation, claim timing, and coverage boundaries is required.
| Exclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Medical exclusions |
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| Administrative |
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| Age & eligibility |
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| Use & animal status |
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| Geographic/time |
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| Identification |
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| Other financial |
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- Pre-existing conditions
- Bilateral conditions if already affected
- Preventive/routine care (unless wellness plan)
- Experimental treatments
- Elective or cosmetic procedures
- Dental illnesses/cleaning (except accidental fracture)
- Illness on accident-only plans
- Reproductive, pregnancy, or birth-related care
- Claims not submitted within 180 days
- Claims submitted more than 90 days after policy cancellation
- Exceeding annual/sublimits
- Animals under 8 weeks at enrollment
- Dogs over 10 and cats over 12 at enrollment
- Missing pre-policy exam or health declaration
- Professional/working animals
- Deliberate injury/neglect
- Activities not recommended by a vet
- Animals not compliant with Canadian law
- Care outside Canada/USA/Puerto Rico/Hawaii/Alaska
- Exceeding 182 days/year outside Canada
- Missing proof of ownership/identity
- Rewards paid to family or employees (loss/theft claims)
- Costs beyond annual/sublimit
- Multiple insurance policies covering the same pet (immediate termination)
Spot Prices
Spot positions itself as a competitive, fully digital player in the Canadian pet insurance market, offering flexible plan options and streamlined claims at a moderate cost.
Monthly premiums are designed to be accessible for most pet owners, with adjustability based on pet age, breed, and benefit selection—placing Spot in the mid-range compared to traditional insurers.
Higher reimbursement rates (up to 90%) and generous annual limits support strong value, but copayments and higher deductibles for senior pets are worth noting.
Spot’s fast claims handling and online management contribute to its affordability, but the price can increase for older pets and if you select comprehensive coverage or wellness add-ons.
Overall, Spot strikes a balance between coverage and cost, well-suited for those focused on flexibility, digitization, and broad access, without being the cheapest on the market.
Compare personalized quotes to find the best price for your pet’s needs.
| Accident Only Plan | Accident & Illness Plan | |
|---|---|---|
| Young cat (2–4 years) | $12–$15/month | $24–$29/month |
| Senior cat (7–8 years) | $18–$21/month | $36–$41/month |
| Small breed dog | $14–$17/month | $32–$36/month |
| Small breed dog (2–4 years) | $14–$17/month | $32–$36/month |
| Large breed dog (2–4 years) | $18–$24/month | $41–$48/month |
| Senior dog (7–8 years) | $28–$30/month | $58–$63/month |
Promo Codes Spot
| Spot 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.
Spot reimbursement amounts: What to expect
With Spot's highest-tier plan, you pay for veterinary care up front, then submit your invoice and medical notes to get reimbursed fast—typically up to 90% of eligible costs, minus your annual deductible. Here are three clear examples:
- ✅ Example 1: Emergency surgery for swallowed object (dog) Total veterinary cost: $2,000 (exam, imaging, surgery, post-op care) Deductible to subtract: $100 (annual, not yet met this year) Amount eligible for reimbursement: $2,000 – $100 = $1,900 90% reimbursed: $1,900 × 90% = $1,710 👉 You receive a reimbursement of $1,710. ℹ️ Only the deductible applies once per year—subsequent treatments will be reimbursed at 90% until the annual coverage limit is reached.
- ✅ Example 2: Ongoing diabetes management (cat) Total annual vet costs: $1,500 (consults, lab tests, insulin) Deductible already met earlier in the policy year Amount eligible for reimbursement: $1,500 90% reimbursed: $1,500 × 90% = $1,350 👉 You receive $1,350 back. ℹ️ Since you already paid the annual deductible for your first claim, all new eligible expenses this policy year are reimbursed at 90%.
- ✅ Example 3: Preventive care visit (dog with wellness add-on) Total cost of vaccines, annual exam, and parasite prevention: $320 No deductible applies for preventive care Amount reimbursed: $320 × 90% = $288 👉 You receive $288. ℹ️ Preventive and wellness services are covered up to the plan’s wellness annual limits, regardless of your deductible for accident/illness claims.
Spot Assistance
Spot’s assistance services focus primarily on digitized claim management and wide geographic coverage, enabling clients to use any vet in Canada or the U.S.
Paperless claims and a user-friendly online portal or app are major strengths, providing fast reimbursement and efficient service, a point frequently praised in customer reviews.
However, Spot does not offer direct advance payment at the vet or a 24/7 emergency tele-vet line, which some competitors provide for cash flow or urgent care needs.
There is also no formal network of partner clinics nor structured payment facilities; all reimbursements occur after the client pays up front.
Spot’s assistance features stand out for flexibility and speed but lack some traditional support services like direct payment or teleconsultation that are increasingly expected by pet owners.
| Assistance Spot | Available? | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Advance payment | ❌ | No advance payment service is available; policyholders pay the vet and claim afterwards. |
| Payment facilities | ❌ | No special monthly installment or payment deferral options beyond standard premium billing. |
| Mobile app | ✅ | App available for iOS and Android. Allows digital claims, policy management, tracking. User ratings: Above average, praised for ease of use and speed. |
| Paperless claims process | ✅ | Claims handled entirely online via portal or app. Fast digital reimbursement—usually within days. |
| Emergency vet service | ❌ | No emergency hotline or teleconsultation service offered through Spot. |
| Vet/clinic partner network | ❌ | No partner veterinary network. All licensed vets in Canada and the U.S. are eligible for reimbursement. |
| Coverage abroad | ✅ | Coverage applies across Canada and for up to 182 days/year in the U.S., Puerto Rico, Hawaii, and Alaska (same conditions as in Canada). |
Allows digital claims, policy management, tracking.
User ratings: Above average, praised for ease of use and speed.
Fast digital reimbursement—usually within days.
All licensed vets in Canada and the U.S. are eligible for reimbursement.
Customer Reviews of Spot
| Review platform | Rating and number of reviews |
|---|---|
| Trustpilot | 4.7 out of 5 – over 8,300 reviews |
| Spot CA Reviews | 4.3 out of 5 – 71+ reviews |
We analyzed reviews from the sites listed above.
On the positive side, customers who subscribed to Spot for their pets often mention:
- An efficient and responsive claims process: users frequently highlight that reimbursements are processed quickly, often within a week.
- A friendly and accessible customer service: policyholders value clear communication and helpful support staff.
- A flexible coverage structure: many appreciate customizable plans, generous reimbursement rates, and the ability to visit any licensed vet in Canada or the U.S.
- A simple and intuitive digital experience: the client portal and claims process are regarded as easy to navigate and manage online.
- A sense of peace of mind regarding large, unexpected veterinary bills thanks to high coverage limits in upper-tier plans.
On the negative side:
- A reimbursement limit on certain preventive care or wellness visits: some clients report lower-than-expected payouts for routine expenses.
- An annual deductible and co-insurance that can reduce reimbursement amounts, with some finding these costs higher than anticipated for entry-level plans.
- A few experiences of delayed reimbursements, particularly around mailed cheques or additional document requests.
- A perceived increase in premiums as the pet ages, sometimes more significant than expected.
- Strict exclusions for pre-existing conditions and stricter rules for coverage activation (e.g., waiting periods) that occasionally surprise new subscribers.
Contact Spot
| Spot 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 | Submit your paid vet bill and supporting documents through the Spot member portal (members.spotpetinsurance.ca), online, by email to submissions@spotpetinsurance.ca, or by fax. Required documents: paid invoice, medical records as requested. Payment is via direct deposit or cheque; typical processing time is a few days to two weeks. For questions, call 1-888-501-7768. |
| To obtain a certificate of insurance | Request by phone at 1-888-501-7768, by email at info@spotpetinsurance.ca, or via the member portal. You may be asked for your policy number and personal identification. Certificates are typically sent to your email address or through your online account. |
| To contact assistance | For general questions or help, call customer service at 1-888-501-7768 or email info@spotpetinsurance.ca. There is no dedicated emergency veterinary advice line; assistance is provided during regular business hours. |
| To cancel my policy | Call 1-888-501-7768 or email info@spotpetinsurance.ca with your policy number and written request. No formal notice period, but cancellation is effective as of your request date; provide proof of identity if required. Any unused premium will be refunded on a prorated basis. |
FAQ
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with Spot?
Yes, with Spot, you pay your veterinary bill upfront at any licensed vet or clinic. After your visit, you submit your claim through the Spot online portal, by email, or fax. Once your claim is reviewed, eligible expenses will be reimbursed to you directly. Spot does not offer direct or third-party payment to the vet.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with Spot?
To cancel your Spot policy, simply call their customer service at 1-888-501-7768 or email info@spotpetinsurance.ca. There is no set notice period—cancellation is effective the day of your request. You’ll need to provide your policy number and a written request. Any unused premium will be refunded on a prorated basis.
What expenses does Spot pet insurance typically cover?
Spot covers a wide range of eligible veterinary expenses, including accidents, illnesses, exams, diagnostic tests, surgeries, prescription medications, and hospitalization. Preventive care, such as vaccines and wellness visits, can be added as an optional upgrade. Pre-existing conditions and routine care are not included in the standard plan. Always review your certificate of coverage for specific details.
How does the Spot claims process work, and how long does reimbursement take?
After paying your vet, submit your claim online, by email, or fax, providing the itemized bill and any requested medical records. Spot reviews the claim and notifies you of its approval, generally within a few days to two weeks. Reimbursements are issued via direct deposit or cheque, depending on your chosen method. You can track your claim’s status through the member portal.
Are there age or breed restrictions for enrolling my pet with Spot?
Pets can be enrolled from 8 weeks of age, with insurance recommended before any pre-existing conditions arise. Dogs must typically enroll before 10 years old and cats before 12 years old. All breeds of cats and dogs are eligible. Some waiting periods apply, and certain exclusions may depend on age or medical history.
Can I use any veterinarian or clinic with Spot Pet Insurance?
Yes, Spot allows you to visit any licensed veterinarian, emergency clinic, or specialist in Canada or the U.S. There are no network restrictions, making it easy to access care wherever you are traveling or living. Claims are filed the same way no matter which clinic you use. Just ensure your bills are detailed and that you submit all supporting documents.
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with Spot?
Yes, with Spot, you pay your veterinary bill upfront at any licensed vet or clinic. After your visit, you submit your claim through the Spot online portal, by email, or fax. Once your claim is reviewed, eligible expenses will be reimbursed to you directly. Spot does not offer direct or third-party payment to the vet.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with Spot?
To cancel your Spot policy, simply call their customer service at 1-888-501-7768 or email info@spotpetinsurance.ca. There is no set notice period—cancellation is effective the day of your request. You’ll need to provide your policy number and a written request. Any unused premium will be refunded on a prorated basis.
What expenses does Spot pet insurance typically cover?
Spot covers a wide range of eligible veterinary expenses, including accidents, illnesses, exams, diagnostic tests, surgeries, prescription medications, and hospitalization. Preventive care, such as vaccines and wellness visits, can be added as an optional upgrade. Pre-existing conditions and routine care are not included in the standard plan. Always review your certificate of coverage for specific details.
How does the Spot claims process work, and how long does reimbursement take?
After paying your vet, submit your claim online, by email, or fax, providing the itemized bill and any requested medical records. Spot reviews the claim and notifies you of its approval, generally within a few days to two weeks. Reimbursements are issued via direct deposit or cheque, depending on your chosen method. You can track your claim’s status through the member portal.
Are there age or breed restrictions for enrolling my pet with Spot?
Pets can be enrolled from 8 weeks of age, with insurance recommended before any pre-existing conditions arise. Dogs must typically enroll before 10 years old and cats before 12 years old. All breeds of cats and dogs are eligible. Some waiting periods apply, and certain exclusions may depend on age or medical history.
Can I use any veterinarian or clinic with Spot Pet Insurance?
Yes, Spot allows you to visit any licensed veterinarian, emergency clinic, or specialist in Canada or the U.S. There are no network restrictions, making it easy to access care wherever you are traveling or living. Claims are filed the same way no matter which clinic you use. Just ensure your bills are detailed and that you submit all supporting documents.
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