Table of Contents
🐾 Introduction: Pet Insurance That Actually Works
Imagine your dog swallows a sock (again), or your cat develops chronic kidney disease. Vet bills can rack up fast—leaving you stressed and financially strained. That’s where pet insurance steps in, and Pets Best is often at the top of the list.
But signing up is only the beginning. Knowing how to use Pets Best insurance effectively is what truly makes it worth the investment.
In this guide, we’ll unpack the process step-by-step—how to file claims, what to expect in reimbursements, what’s covered (and what’s not), and real tips from pet owners who’ve used it.
Whether you’re new to pet insurance or already have a Pets Best policy, you’re about to learn how to make the most of your plan—with clarity, confidence, and zero fluff.
🧾 What is Pets Best Insurance?
Pets Best is a well-established pet insurance company known for customizable coverage, fast reimbursements, and no upper age limits for enrollment. Founded by a veterinarian, it focuses on real-world usability for pet parents, offering accident-only plans, accident + illness plans, and optional routine care coverage.
Key Features at a Glance:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Coverage Types | Accident-only, Accident + Illness, Wellness Add-ons |
| Reimbursement Options | 70%, 80%, or 90% |
| Deductibles | Range from $50 to $1,000 (annual) |
| Claim Submission | Online, mobile app, email, or fax |
| Waiting Periods | 3 days for accidents, 14 days for illnesses |
| Customer Service | 24/7 Pet Helpline, online chat, and phone support |
🐶 Step-by-Step: How to Use Pets Best Insurance
Understanding how to navigate your Pets Best policy can mean the difference between a quick reimbursement or a denied claim. Here’s a full breakdown of the process:
1. Understand Your Plan Coverage
Before you use your insurance, review your policy details carefully. This includes:
- Covered conditions (accidents, illnesses, surgeries, prescriptions)
- Exclusions (pre-existing conditions, elective procedures, grooming)
- Reimbursement percentage
- Annual deductible and coverage limits
💡 Pro tip: Always confirm what’s included in your policy before an emergency hits. Save your welcome email or login to your Pets Best account to double-check.
2. Take Your Pet to the Vet (Any Licensed Vet!)
Pets Best allows you to visit any licensed veterinarian in the U.S. This gives you the freedom to stick with your regular vet or see a specialist—no need to stay in-network.
Just pay the bill as usual at the vet’s office. You’ll be reimbursed later based on your plan’s terms.
3. Collect Your Documentation
When it’s time to file a claim, make sure you get the following from your vet:
- Itemized invoice (with services clearly listed)
- Medical records (especially for first-time claims or new diagnoses)
- Diagnosis or notes if applicable
📁 Keep digital copies—scanning them or snapping photos with your phone works perfectly.
4. Submit a Claim
Pets Best makes it easy to file claims. Choose the method that works for you:
- Online Portal: Login to your account and upload your documents
- Mobile App: Use the Pets Best app to snap a photo and submit in minutes
- Email: claims@petsbest.com
- Fax: 1-866-777-1434
⏱ Most claims are processed within 5–7 days, but wellness claims are often faster.
5. Track Your Claim
Once your claim is submitted, you’ll get status updates via email or through the mobile app. You can also log in to your dashboard to view:
- Pending claims
- Explanation of benefits (EOBs)
- Reimbursement breakdowns
If any documentation is missing, Pets Best will contact you directly to complete the claim.
6. Receive Your Reimbursement
After your claim is approved, you’ll receive your reimbursement via:
- Direct Deposit (fastest option—usually within 2 business days)
- Paper Check (slower, but available if preferred)
💰 Let’s say you have 80% coverage, a $250 deductible, and your vet bill is $1,000. After subtracting the deductible, you’d be reimbursed $600.
✅ Real-World Example: Using Pets Best in an Emergency
“When my golden retriever tore his ACL, the surgery cost $3,800. I was nervous about the claim process, but I submitted everything online. Within a week, I had $2,840 back in my account. Honestly, that one reimbursement paid for years of premiums.”
— Emily P., Pets Best customer since 2019
💡 Insider Tips to Maximize Your Pets Best Insurance
1. Always Submit Complete Documentation
Claims are often delayed due to missing vet notes or invoices. Get in the habit of requesting full documentation after every visit—even routine ones.
2. Use the 24/7 Vet Helpline
Your plan includes access to licensed veterinary professionals anytime. For middle-of-the-night worries, use this before heading to the ER—it could save you hundreds.
3. Add Wellness Coverage (If It Makes Sense)
Routine care plans help with costs like:
- Vaccines
- Annual checkups
- Flea/tick/heartworm prevention
It’s not always cheaper than paying out of pocket, so compare your expected costs before adding.
⚠️ What Pets Best Insurance Doesn’t Cover
Like any insurance, there are exclusions. Be aware of these common limitations:
- Pre-existing conditions
- Elective procedures (like tail docking)
- Grooming or cosmetic treatments
- Breeding or pregnancy-related costs
- Non-prescription food and supplements
📌 Pro tip: If your pet has chronic issues, make sure they’re well documented. This helps Pets Best distinguish between pre-existing and new conditions.
🔄 Pets Best vs. Other Pet Insurance Providers
| Feature | Pets Best | Healthy Paws | ASPCA Pet Insurance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coverage Options | Highly customizable | Limited customization | Broad but pricier |
| Claim Submission | App, online, email | App, online | Online, fax, mail |
| Reimbursement Speed | 5–7 days | 10–14 days | 15–30 days |
| 24/7 Vet Helpline | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Routine Care Add-On | ✅ Available | ❌ Not offered | ✅ Available |
👉 Read more about how Pets Best stacks up to Healthy Paws.
🧠 Common FAQs About Using Pets Best Insurance
Q: Do I need pre-approval before treatment?
A: No. You can visit the vet anytime and submit claims afterward. However, for expensive treatments, it’s smart to contact customer service for guidance.
Q: Can I use it at emergency or specialty clinics?
A: Yes, any licensed vet or specialist is eligible for coverage, including ER and oncology centers.
Q: What happens if I cancel my policy?
A: You can cancel anytime. You may receive a prorated refund for the unused portion of your policy, but claims made during your coverage period will still be processed.
🏁 Final Thoughts: Is Pets Best Insurance Worth It?
Pets Best stands out not just for coverage, but for how easy it is to actually use the insurance when you need it most. Fast digital claims, transparent processes, and flexible coverage mean fewer headaches—and more focus on your pet’s health.
Whether you’re dealing with a sudden emergency or budgeting for regular checkups, knowing how to navigate your Pets Best insurance ensures you’re covered with confidence.
📣 Your Turn: Ready to Use Your Pet Insurance Like a Pro?
Now that you know how to use Pets Best insurance like a seasoned pet parent, take the next step:
✅ Check your current coverage
✅ Download the mobile app
✅ Save your vet receipts
✅ Submit your next claim with ease
Have questions or want to share your experience with Pets Best? Drop a comment below or explore more pet insurance tips in our insurance insights section.
