Healthy Paws pet insurance has been rated 3.3 out of 5 stars in a recent analysis. The company offers quality basic coverage for accidents and illnesses, but several gaps exist in its policies.
Coverage does not include dental illness or veterinary exam fees. Policyholders do have access to alternative therapies and the ability to pay veterinarians directly.
Costs were found to be below average in the analysis. The average monthly price for an unlimited coverage plan is $104.50. Choices for deductibles and reimbursement percentages depend on the pet's age and other factors, which may limit customization options.
All policies provide unlimited annual coverage. The company does not offer accident-only policies or wellness plans.
Coverage includes hereditary and congenital conditions, cancer, diagnostics like X-rays and ultrasounds, dental accidents, alternative therapy, prescription drugs, and euthanasia. Preexisting conditions are not covered, with specific definitions varying by state.
Exclusions include anal gland expression, boarding, breeding, cremation and burial, cruciate ligament problems if previously appearing in other legs, dental care beyond accident-related extractions, elective and cosmetic procedures, experimental treatments, grooming, hip dysplasia occurring in the first policy year, injuries during waiting periods, intentional acts, pet food, preventative care, spaying and neutering, and vet exam fees.
Policyholders can increase their deductible and coinsurance amounts at any time in writing. Decreases require written application and no filed claims.
Healthy Paws does not offer a multi-pet discount, unlike many competitors. The company can pay veterinarians directly if requested before treatment and if the vet accepts such payments.
Claims require only a photo of the invoice, with medical records needed for the first claim. Submissions can be made online or via the Healthy Paws app, with 90 days from treatment to file. Claims are typically processed within two days, with reimbursements paid within 24 business hours after approval.
The Healthy Paws mobile app has high ratings: 4.6 stars in the App Store and 4.3 stars on Google Play. It allows claim filing, status checks, policy review, and billing updates.
Healthy Paws includes access to a 24/7 vet helpline through the Airvet telehealth app. Policies are available in all 50 states and Washington, D.C.
Some states may require a medical exam to speed claim processing. Pets under six years old need an exam within 12 months before or 15 days after the policy effective date. Pets six years and older need a complete clinical exam within 30 days before or 15 days after.
Customer service is available by phone Monday to Friday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. PT and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. PT at 1-855-898-8991. Other contact methods include fax, mail, and email.
Policies can be canceled at any time by notifying Healthy Paws in writing or verbally, with a full refund available if canceled within the first 30 days with no claims filed.
Waiting periods are 15 days for accident and illness coverage in most states, with a special 12-month period for hip dysplasia. Age restrictions for new policies are a minimum of 8 weeks and a maximum of 13 years.