Mistake #5: Not Reviewing the Insurer’s Reputation and Claim Process
You’ve done all the research—picked a plan, checked coverage, and signed up. But here’s the final piece many dog owners miss: Does the insurance company actually deliver when it matters most?
Some pet insurance companies have slick ads and flashy websites, but when it’s time to submit a claim, they make it a nightmare. Delayed payments, endless paperwork, or ignored emails can leave you frustrated—especially in an emergency.
Remember, good coverage means nothing if you can’t access it easily.
What to Check Before Signing Up:
Before you trust a company with your dog’s health—and your wallet—here’s what to look into:
Customer Reviews
- Don’t rely only on the testimonials on the company’s own website. Instead, check:
- Trustpilot
- Better Business Bureau (BBB)
- Reddit threads and pet forums
Real dog owners often share honest reviews—both good and bad.
Claim Submission Process
- Is it quick and digital, or outdated and frustrating?
- Questions to ask:
- Do they have an easy-to-use mobile app or online portal?
- Can you upload vet bills directly or do you need to mail paperwork?
- How long does it take to process a claim?
Reimbursement Speed
- Some companies pay you back within a few days.
- Others may take weeks—or even months.
- Fast reimbursements are a sign of a smooth and caring claims process.
Real Tip from Dog Owners
Want the inside scoop?
Join dog owner forums or Facebook groups and simply ask: “Which pet insurance do you use? How fast was your claim processed?”
You’ll get real feedback from pet parents who’ve been through it—some will even share screenshots or receipts to show exactly how things went.
Bonus Section: Best Dog Insurance Providers in 2025 (with Pros & Cons)
We reviewed dozens of dog insurance companies. Here are some of the top-rated options in 2025:
| Provider | Best For | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Healthy Paws | Comprehensive illness coverage | Unlimited lifetime benefits, fast claim process | No wellness add-on |
| Lemonade | Tech-savvy owners | AI-powered claims, affordable premiums | New in the pet market |
| ASPCA Pet Insurance | Customizable plans | Wellness add-ons, covers microchipping | Claim processing may be slower |
| Embrace | Older dogs | Covers alternative treatments | Annual coverage caps |
FAQs: Dog Insurance Questions You Might Be Wondering
1. Is dog insurance worth it?
Yes—especially if you want peace of mind and protection from big surprise bills. One major vet visit can exceed $3,000.
2. Does dog insurance cover surgery?
If you have accident or accident + illness coverage, most surgeries are covered—after deductibles and waiting periods.
3. What’s the difference between reimbursement and co-pay?
Reimbursement is what the insurance pays you back after your bill. Co-pay is what you must pay out-of-pocket.
4. Can I use any vet?
Most dog insurance lets you choose any licensed vet in the U.S.
5. Can I cancel anytime?
Yes, but some companies offer prorated refunds, while others don’t refund after 30 days.