Guild Pet Insurance 2025: In-Depth Australian Review & Key Insights
Our expert's opinion on Guild
Guild (under the Vets Choice Elite Insurance for Pets banner) offers a highly customisable pet insurance solution for Australian pet owners, with a standout annual vet fee limit of $15,000 and flexible benefit levels up to 100%, addressing needs from routine accidents to complex illnesses. Premium structure lets owners adjust their excess and reimbursement rate, while optional dental, dental plus, and cruciate ligament extensions provide targeted add-ons uncommon among competitors, though pricing lacks clear public transparency. Compared to leading low-cost and premium providers, Guild’s strength is the breadth of core medical cover paired with high reimbursement and a relatively high annual limit, but it is hindered by capped chronic condition payouts, exclusions for ongoing preventatives, and a modest customer service track record. Guild is particularly well suited to owners of purebred, young or middle-aged dogs or cats, and those prioritising comprehensive illness/accident limits and strong dental, who accept stricter exclusions and moderate premiums. Operated by Guild Insurance Limited, a longstanding mutual with a broad insurance portfolio and stable financials (annual premium volume not specified); current ProductReview.com.au rating is 2.1/5 (10 reviews), with claims settled quickly if pre-approved but long or denied when ambiguous, and customer service cited as variable.
- ✅Up to $15,000 vet fees per pet each year
- ✅Benefit levels up to 100% reimbursement
- ✅Annual policy and lifetime renewal guarantees
- ✅Optional dental and routine dental cover
- ✅Pet owners’ liability up to $100,000 (AU only)
- ✅Pre-approval available for planned treatments
- ✅Multi-pet and healthy-pet discounts
- ❌Strict sub-limits for chronic conditions ($1,000/yr/condition)
- ❌Major exclusions: wellness, preventatives, alternative therapies
- ❌Mixed customer service and claim denial issues
- ❌Significant premium increases on renewal
- ❌No online-only, fully digital claims experience
Score- ✅Up to $15,000 vet fees per pet each year
- ✅Benefit levels up to 100% reimbursement
- ✅Annual policy and lifetime renewal guarantees
- ✅Optional dental and routine dental cover
- ✅Pet owners’ liability up to $100,000 (AU only)
- ✅Pre-approval available for planned treatments
- ✅Multi-pet and healthy-pet discounts
Our expert's opinion on Guild
- ✅Up to $15,000 vet fees per pet each year
- ✅Benefit levels up to 100% reimbursement
- ✅Annual policy and lifetime renewal guarantees
- ✅Optional dental and routine dental cover
- ✅Pet owners’ liability up to $100,000 (AU only)
- ✅Pre-approval available for planned treatments
- ✅Multi-pet and healthy-pet discounts
- ❌Strict sub-limits for chronic conditions ($1,000/yr/condition)
- ❌Major exclusions: wellness, preventatives, alternative therapies
- ❌Mixed customer service and claim denial issues
- ❌Significant premium increases on renewal
- ❌No online-only, fully digital claims experience
Score- ✅Up to $15,000 vet fees per pet each year
- ✅Benefit levels up to 100% reimbursement
- ✅Annual policy and lifetime renewal guarantees
- ✅Optional dental and routine dental cover
- ✅Pet owners’ liability up to $100,000 (AU only)
- ✅Pre-approval available for planned treatments
- ✅Multi-pet and healthy-pet discounts
Why Trust HelloSafe?
At HelloSafe, our pet insurance expert independently reviews the terms and pricing of policies available in Australia every year, to provide you with reliable and unbiased analysis. Thanks to this thorough approach, thousands of Australians trust us each month to help guide them through their most important financial decisions.
The Guarantees Guild
Guild Insurance (via Vets Choice) offers one comprehensive, customisable pet insurance formula, with annual vet fee limits up to $15,000 and reimbursement rates chosen by the policyholder (typically 80% or 100%).
The policy’s structure is notable for its flexibility in reimbursement and excess, granular sub-limits for chronic disease, strong accidental/illness cover, and generous annual caps compared to many competitors.
Dental, preventive, and cruciate ligament cover are strictly optional and must be selected at extra cost, and the plan excludes most alternative medicine, everyday routine care, hereditary conditions (if pre-existing), and any overseas treatment.
Guild stands out for its lifetime cover guarantee, transparent sub-limits, and option for preventive condition extensions, but does not include teleconsultation or broad wellness benefits without add-ons.
This formula is best suited to owners wanting high annual reimbursement with customisable excess, and who value detailed chronic condition cover over bundled wellness.
| Name of coverage | Guild (Vets Choice Elite, customisable) |
|---|---|
| Plan positioning | Premium, comprehensive, customisable annual excess/reimbursement |
| Type of coverage | Accident and specified illness (hereditary if not pre-existing) |
| Animals covered | Dogs and cats |
| Reimbursement rate (%) | 80% or 100% (chosen by client) |
| Annual reimbursement limit | $15,000 per pet |
| Deductible (annual or per claim) | Per claim, chosen at sign-up (e.g., $200) |
| Age limits for enrollment (dogs/cats) | Not Communicated (N.C.) |
| Pre-enrollment health questionnaire | N.C. |
| Waiting period (illness) | 21 days (6 months for cruciate ligament) |
| Waiting period (accident) | 21 days (nil for some accident types) |
| Lifetime coverage once subscribed | ✅ Yes, as long as renewed yearly |
| Vet consultations (regular + emergency) | ✅ |
| Medications | ✅ |
| Hospitalization | ✅ |
| Surgery (including anesthesia) | ✅ |
| Diagnostic tests (X-ray, MRI, ultrasound, lab tests) | ✅ |
| Dental care (includes scaling/procedures) | Optional: $800/yr (6-month wait, excludes routine clean) |
| Preventive care package (vaccines, antiparasitics, spaying/neutering, ID/microchipping) | Optional: Dental Plus add-on ($350/yr cleans/VOHC treats only); other preventive excluded |
| Alternative medicine (osteopathy, acupuncture, etc.) | ❌ Not covered |
| Travel coverage (countries included, duration) | ❌ AU only; no overseas coverage |
| Civil liability | ✅ $100,000/yr (Australia only, excluding certain breeds/incidents) |
| Euthanasia | ✅ $500/claim (100% reimbursed, incl. cremation/disposal) |
| Death & cremation coverage | ✅ If due to euthanasia (as above) |
| Theft or loss of pet + search expenses | ❌ Not covered |
| Boarding fees (if owner is hospitalised) | ❌ Not covered |
Important Policy Details
One chronic condition (e.g., arthritis, diabetes) per year per pet is capped at $1,000 reimbursement after first diagnosis. Optional “Cruciate Ligament Extension” increases the annual sub-limit for this condition only to $5,300 (6-month wait applies). Dental Plus add-on is for routine/preventive dental only (not illness/injury). Up-to-date vaccination may allow cover for certain illnesses otherwise excluded. Claims must be submitted within 12 months; no overseas coverage for any benefit.
Take a moment to compare all customisable options and add-ons with other providers to find the best value for your needs.
👉 Compare the best pet insurance for your furry friend for free!Start Your Free Comparison Now!The Exclusions Guild
Guild’s exclusion list is broad, with notable features including a strict approach to pre-existing and bilateral conditions, comprehensive exclusion of alternative/complementary treatments, and no cover for preventive care even if optional wellness/dental is not selected.
<br/>
Overseas treatment, injuries resulting from breeding or commercial use, and legal liability linked to dangerous dog breeds or overseas incidents are excluded.
Strict documentation and timeframes apply, and chronic or hereditary illnesses present before policy start are always excluded.
These restrictions mean prospective policyholders should carefully review the exclusions for chronic, degenerative, and wellness-related needs.
| Exclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Medical exclusions | • Pre-existing injuries/illnesses • Bilateral/related conditions if one side affected before • Chronic or hereditary (present at enrolment/waiting) • Dental (unless dental option selected) • Alternative/complementary medicine (acupuncture, naturopathy, chiro, hydro, herbal, etc.) • Any inconclusive diagnosis matching an exclusion |
| Preventive/wellness/elective exclusions | • Vaccinations • Microchipping • Routine/pre-anaesthetic check-ups • Training/behavioural treatments • Grooming • Cosmetic/elective surgery • Routine dental scaling/cleaning (unless Dental Plus add-on) • Food/supplements (except for urinary crystals/stones with evidence, up to limit) |
| Reproductive/exploitative exclusions | • Breeding or pregnancy (and complications) • Commercial use: guarding, hunting, racing, law enforcement, fighting (except service/guide/therapy dog) |
| Legal liability exclusions | • Claims against family/household members • Contract/liability for dangerous breeds or declared dogs • Property damage under owner’s control • Overseas incidents • Fines or punitive damages • Vehicle-related liability |
| Geographic exclusions | • Any treatment/incident/claim occurring outside Australia |
| Administration/procedure exclusions | • Claims lodged/supported with insufficient documentation • Claims notified more than 12 months after treatment • Unpaid/unsettled premiums |
| Ownership/identification exclusions | • Loss/theft/search costs for lost pet • Boarding fees if hospitalised |
| Public order/abuse exclusions | • Acts of gross negligence or abuse • Treatments for illegal/unlawful acts |
• Bilateral/related conditions if one side affected before
• Chronic or hereditary (present at enrolment/waiting)
• Dental (unless dental option selected)
• Alternative/complementary medicine (acupuncture, naturopathy, chiro, hydro, herbal, etc.)
• Any inconclusive diagnosis matching an exclusion
• Microchipping
• Routine/pre-anaesthetic check-ups
• Training/behavioural treatments
• Grooming
• Cosmetic/elective surgery
• Routine dental scaling/cleaning (unless Dental Plus add-on)
• Food/supplements (except for urinary crystals/stones with evidence, up to limit)
• Commercial use: guarding, hunting, racing, law enforcement, fighting (except service/guide/therapy dog)
• Contract/liability for dangerous breeds or declared dogs
• Property damage under owner’s control
• Overseas incidents
• Fines or punitive damages
• Vehicle-related liability
• Claims notified more than 12 months after treatment
• Unpaid/unsettled premiums
• Boarding fees if hospitalised
• Treatments for illegal/unlawful acts
The Prices Guild
Guild (Vets Choice) generally positions itself as expensive but comprehensive within the Australian pet insurance market.
Plans with 80–100% reimbursement rates, high annual benefit limits, and optional dental or specialist extensions mean broader cover and flexibility but result in monthly premiums above average.
Unlike digital-first competitors, Guild is not a "pure player"—it primarily manages claims via call, web portal, and email, which can limit overall cost efficiency.
Optional excesses let some price-conscious owners reduce premiums, but the most complete coverage is priced for higher budgets compared to many direct competitors.
As such, Guild best suits pet owners prioritising top-tier reimbursement and customisable coverage, provided they are willing to pay premium rates.
| Vets Choice Elite (standard plan) | |
|---|---|
| Young cat (2–4 years) | N.C. |
| Senior cat (7–8 years) | N.C. |
| Small breed dog | N.C. |
| Small breed dog (2–4 years) | N.C. |
| Large breed dog (2–4 years) | N.C. |
| Senior dog (7–8 years) | N.C. |
Compare all plan options and tailor your cover to get the best value for your pet’s needs.
👉 Compare the best pet insurance for your furry friend for free!Start Your Free Comparison Now!Guild Promo Codes
| Guild 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.
What reimbursement amount can I expect with Guild?
With Guild’s highest-tier plan, you are reimbursed based on your chosen reimbursement percentage (up to 100%) after your selected excess (deductible) has been deducted per claim. Here are three typical reimbursement examples for companion animal treatments:
Reimbursement Example: Foreign Object Ingestion
Total vet costs: $2,700 (diagnostic imaging, anaesthesia, and surgery)
Deductible amount to subtract: $200 (plan’s selected excess per claim)
Amount eligible for reimbursement: $2,700 – $200 = $2,500
Reimbursement at 100%: $2,500 × 100% = $2,500
👉 You receive a reimbursement of $2,500.
ℹ️ The $200 excess applies per claim; as the highest-tier option was selected, you get maximum reimbursement for eligible costs.
Cruciate ligament repair reimbursement example
Total vet costs: $4,900. Deductible already used earlier in the policy year. Annual sub-limit with optional extension: $5,300. Reimbursement at 100%: $4,900 × 100% = $4,900. You receive a reimbursement of $4,900. Only the excess from your first claim applies; for further eligible surgeries in a year, no additional excess is deducted if same event/treatment.
Dental Plus Reimbursement Example
Total vet costs: $290 (professional clean, check, and preventive VOHC chew)
Deductible: $0 (no excess applies on Dental Plus benefit)
Reimbursement up to $350 annual sub-limit: $290 × 100% = $290
👉 You receive a reimbursement of $290.
ℹ️ Dental Plus option covers routine dental care, up to $350 per year, with no excess or waiting period for this benefit.
The Assistance Guild
| Assistance Guild | Available? | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Advance payment | ❌ | No advance payment or direct settlement service; clients pay vet and then claim. |
| Payment facilities | ❌ | No option for paying premiums in instalments; full payment by period only. |
| Mobile app | ❌ | No dedicated app for claims or policy management. N.C. on digital experience features. |
| Paperless claims process | ✅ | Online claims submission 24/7 via web portal. Phone support available for guidance. |
| Emergency vet service | ❌ | No emergency helpline or teleconsultation service is offered to policyholders. |
| Vet/clinic partner network | ❌ | No listed network of preferred providers; cover is valid for any registered AU vet. |
| Coverage abroad | ❌ | Cover applies only to treatments and claims in Australia; no international benefit. |
Customer Reviews of Guild
| Review platform | Rating and number of reviews |
|---|---|
| ProductReview.com.au | 2.1/5 (10 reviews) |
We analyzed reviews from the site listed above. On the positive side, customers who subscribed to Guild for their pets often mention:
- ✅ A prompt processing and reimbursement experience in some cases, especially when claims are pre-approved.
- ✅ A policy that can deliver good support for certain specialist treatments.
On the negative side:
- A high number of claim denials or reductions, often due to unspecified conditions or policy interpretation.
- A frequent increase in premium costs at renewal, with some considering the value for money to be low.
- Some reports of poor communication, lack of transparency, and delays in claim handling.
- Stand down periods or restrictions after policy changes that are not well explained to clients.
- A limited digital experience, with processes perceived as less streamlined than other providers.
How to Contact Guild
| Guild 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 claim via the online portal at www.vetschoice.net.au (24/7) or call 1800 999 738. Provide completed claim form, paid vet invoices, pet medical history, and supporting documents. Claims can be lodged by pet owner or the vet. Approved reimbursements paid to your nominated bank account. Processing time varies; typical claims are processed in 5–10 business days. |
| To obtain a certificate of insurance | Request by calling customer service at 1800 999 738. Alternatively, email your enquiry to [email protected]. Include your full name, policy number, and required document details. |
| To contact assistance | Call 1800 999 738 for advice and policy questions during business hours. Email [email protected] for written support. Postal address: Locked Bag 32010 Collins Street East VIC 8003. |
| To cancel my policy | Call 1800 999 738 or email [email protected] to request cancellation. Provide your policy number, full name, and written request to cancel. Notice period: Cancellation is immediate upon receipt, but premiums may be payable up to the date of notice. Refunds for any unused premium are paid to your nominated account. Postal address for written requests: Locked Bag 32010 Collins Street East VIC 8003. |
Provide completed claim form, paid vet invoices, pet medical history, and supporting documents.
Claims can be lodged by pet owner or the vet.
Approved reimbursements paid to your nominated bank account.
Processing time varies; typical claims are processed in 5–10 business days.
Alternatively, email your enquiry to [email protected].
Include your full name, policy number, and required document details.
Email [email protected] for written support.
Postal address: Locked Bag 32010 Collins Street East VIC 8003.
Provide your policy number, full name, and written request to cancel.
Notice period: Cancellation is immediate upon receipt, but premiums may be payable up to the date of notice.
Refunds for any unused premium are paid to your nominated account.
Postal address for written requests: Locked Bag 32010 Collins Street East VIC 8003.
FAQ
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with Guild?
Yes, Guild requires policyholders to pay veterinary fees upfront at the time of treatment. After payment, you can submit a claim for reimbursement online or by post.
How long does it take for a claim to be processed and paid?
Most claims are assessed and processed within 5–10 business days once all required documents are provided. Reimbursement is made by direct deposit to your nominated account.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with Guild?
To cancel, contact Guild's customer service by phone or email with your policy details and a written request. Cancellation is effective from notification, and any unused premium may be refunded.
Does Guild cover routine or preventive treatments such as vaccinations?
No, routine and preventive care, including vaccinations, microchipping, flea or worming treatments, and wellness checks are not covered under Guild’s standard policy. Cover is limited to specified illnesses and accidental injuries.
What is the reimbursement rate and are there sub-limits on certain conditions?
Guild offers reimbursement rates of either 80% or 100%, depending on your chosen plan. Some conditions have defined sub-limits, such as for cruciate ligament injuries and chronic conditions.
Are pre-existing conditions covered by Guild pet insurance?
Pre-existing conditions diagnosed or showing symptoms before your policy starts or during the waiting period are not covered. Reinstatement may be possible if a condition is fully cured, subject to medical evidence and Guild’s discretion.
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with Guild?
Yes, Guild requires policyholders to pay veterinary fees upfront at the time of treatment. After payment, you can submit a claim for reimbursement online or by post.
How long does it take for a claim to be processed and paid?
Most claims are assessed and processed within 5–10 business days once all required documents are provided. Reimbursement is made by direct deposit to your nominated account.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with Guild?
To cancel, contact Guild's customer service by phone or email with your policy details and a written request. Cancellation is effective from notification, and any unused premium may be refunded.
Does Guild cover routine or preventive treatments such as vaccinations?
No, routine and preventive care, including vaccinations, microchipping, flea or worming treatments, and wellness checks are not covered under Guild’s standard policy. Cover is limited to specified illnesses and accidental injuries.
What is the reimbursement rate and are there sub-limits on certain conditions?
Guild offers reimbursement rates of either 80% or 100%, depending on your chosen plan. Some conditions have defined sub-limits, such as for cruciate ligament injuries and chronic conditions.
Are pre-existing conditions covered by Guild pet insurance?
Pre-existing conditions diagnosed or showing symptoms before your policy starts or during the waiting period are not covered. Reinstatement may be possible if a condition is fully cured, subject to medical evidence and Guild’s discretion.
On the same topic
