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In-Depth Review

Pets Best Insurance Review

4/5 — Very Good

Last updated: March 2026 | Reviewed by Mike (AAI, PRC, SBCS, CCIC)

Our Verdict

Founded by a veterinarian, Pets Best offers one of the best value propositions in pet insurance with low premiums, a 3-day accident waiting period, and an unlimited coverage option. The $50 deductible option is the lowest in the industry. A strong choice for value-conscious pet owners who want solid coverage without premium prices.

Coverage Limit

$5,000–Unlimited annual

Monthly Premium

$18–$65

Deductible Options

$50, $100, $200, $250, $500

Reimbursement

70%, 80%, 90%

Quick Facts

Founded2005
UnderwriterAmerican Pet Insurance Company
AM Best RatingA- (Excellent)
Accident Waiting Period3 days
Illness Waiting Period14 days
Wellness CoverageYes
Multi-Pet DiscountNo
Age Limit7 weeks and older (no upper limit)
Claims ProcessApp or web portal
Avg. Claim Time5–10 business days

Pros

  • Founded by a veterinarian (Dr. Jack Stephens)
  • Industry-lowest $50 deductible option
  • 3-day accident waiting period
  • Unlimited coverage option available
  • Competitive premiums across all tiers

Cons

  • No multi-pet discount
  • Underwriter (APIC) is less established than Chubb or Nationwide
  • Wellness plans have limited annual allowances
  • Premium increases can be steep in later years
  • Less brand recognition than larger competitors

Overview

Pets Best was founded in 2005 by Dr. Jack Stephens, a veterinarian who also founded the first pet insurance company in the U.S. (Veterinary Pet Insurance, now Nationwide). This veterinary pedigree shows in the product design — Pets Best consistently offers one of the best value propositions in the market.

The standout features are the $50 deductible option (lowest in the industry), the 3-day accident waiting period, and competitive premiums that undercut many larger carriers while still offering an unlimited coverage tier.

Coverage Details

The BestBenefit Accident & Illness plan covers accidents, illnesses, hereditary conditions, cancer, emergency care, specialist visits, surgery, hospitalization, prescription medications, and diagnostic testing. Coverage limits range from $5,000 to unlimited annually.

Two wellness add-on tiers (EssentialWellness and BestWellness) cover routine care including exams, vaccinations, dental cleaning, spay/neuter, and microchipping.

Pricing & Premiums

Pets Best premiums are among the most competitive in the market, starting as low as $18/month for cats and $25/month for young dogs. The $50 deductible option is unique in the industry and keeps out-of-pocket costs low for frequent claims.

Choosing unlimited coverage with 90% reimbursement and a $50 deductible runs approximately $45–$65/month for most dogs, which is competitive with Healthy Paws' unlimited plans.

Claims Experience

Claims are submitted through the Pets Best app or web portal. Processing times average 5–10 business days, which is competitive with industry leaders.

Pets Best reimburses based on actual vet bills and offers direct deposit. The company has invested in improving its digital claims experience and provides clear explanations of benefits with each decision.

Ready to Get Covered?

Compare Pets Best with our top-rated carrier, Healthy Paws.